Name:
Block:
Date:
Objective:
Students will construct a character analysis of a real life American individual who exemplifies the qualities of
their chosen archetype through research, analysis, and thesis development. (Six sources, two of which must be
testimonials about the person you chose).
Structure of the Paper:
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Introduction with a strong thesis statement
Background of the individual, including detailed description of at least two qualities that make them fit
the chosen archetype
Major influence the individual has had on America or the world
Detailed description of how the individual is viewed by others and explanation of how they meet
archetype requirements
Conclusion with concise and compelling summary of the paper
Archetypes:
I am providing for you a list of popular archetypes in American culture with brief descriptions of their
characteristics so you can make a well informed choice and develop that in to an interesting and thoughtful
research project. The examples, when included, are fictional so as not to narrow your prospective topics –
PLEASE KEEP IN MIND you MUST write your paper about a REAL LIFE American, you MAY NOT use a character.
Also worth noting, some archetypes may be more difficult to tackle than others, so be considerate when
making your choice.
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Anti-hero: The hero who didn’t ask to get involved but does. Ex: Sarah Connor, Wolverine
Caretaker: Protects and cares for others, often through humanitarian efforts. Often compassionate
and generous. Ex: Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother
Earth Mother: a female who represents and or is a personification of nature, motherhood, fertility,
creation, destruction, or who embodies the bounty of the earth. Ex. Mother Nature
Elder/Mentor/Teacher/Parent: Character who “raises” the hero and provides parental
guidance/advice, regardless of biological relation. Ex: Ben Kenobi, Mufassa
Explorer/Wanderer: Wants to see the world—could be running from something.
Extraordinary man/woman: The guy or girl who can do anything. Ex: Indiana Jones, James Bond
Faithful companion: provides constant friendship and support to a major character. Ex. Donkey in
Shrek
Herald/Messenger: The bringer of news, good, bad, or necessary.
Hero/heroine: character who is strong and courageous, tries to help others through acts of valor,
although prone to arrogance. Ex: The Knights of the Round Table, Luke Skywalker
Innocent: An inexperienced individual exposed to the evils in the world. Ex: Dorothy Gale
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Leader: Always knows the best thing to do—and people follow. Ex: William Wallace
Lonely Orphan: often from humble beginnings but seeks to belong and connect with others. The
orphan is typically lonely however very virtuous and down to earth, but can lose themselves while
trying to fit in. Ex. Pip, Oliver Twist
Martyr: Willing to suffer or die for others or a cause.
Masquerader: Pretends to be something he is not.
Misfit: does not feel an emotional connection with the predominant group, does not “fit in.” Ex. Huck
Finn
Outcast/Outsider: Similar to misfits and rebels – the outcast is someone whose beliefs or actions have
put him on the fringes of society. Outcasts typically harbor anger or resentment towards society for its
lack of acceptance. Ex: The Greasers in The Outsiders
Poet: Life is art, be that through story or song or art or sculpture.
Rebel/Revolutionary: Stands opposed to the status quo and fights for his cause. Character who seeks
to affect change, disrupt or shock society. Believes that rules/laws are relative and can be broken,
prone to radicalism. Ex: Robin Hood, Zorro, James Dean’s character in Rebel Without a Cause
Rogue: Looks out for himself and no one else. Ex: Han Solo
Rugged Individualist: A character that relies solely on their personal merits/strengths to survive. Ex:
Just about any character ever played by Clint Eastwood
Scapegoat: A character who is blamed for unfortunate events, often dies. Ex. Tom Robinson in To Kill a
Mockingbird, the Proctors in The Crucible
Shrew: a female character that will not conform to the demands of society, often querulous. Ex; Kate
in The Taming of the Shrew, Kat in 10 Things I Hate About You
Trickster/Jester: Someone who relies on their wits and is willing to cross boundaries, break taboos,
offend. Typically executed through sarcasm. Always looking for the humor in a situation. Ex: Fred and
George Weasley, Odysseus
Villain/Monster: A character who seeks to bring harm to, destroy, or trap others (usually the hero) Ex:
Evil Queen in Snow White, Lex Luthor
Ideas for people and the archetype they fit:
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