Situational Archetypes
Definition
Archetypes are things patterned after an
original and many are so common that you
often don’t need extensive knowledge of the
original to appreciate the meaning or intent.
The Task
To save the kingdom, to identify himself
so that he may assume his rightful
position the hero must perform some
nearly superhuman deed
The Fall
This archetype describes a descent
from a higher to a lower state of being.
The experience involves a defilement
and/or loss of innocence.
Death and Rebirth
The most common of all situational
archetypes, this motif grows out of the
parallel between the cycle of nature and life.
Morning and springtime represent rebirth,
birth, and youth; evening and winter suggest
old age and death.
Battle between Good and Evil
a battle between two primal forces – mankind
shows eternal optimism in continual portrayal
of good triumphing over evil despite great
odds
The Magic Weapon
This symbolizes the extraordinary
quality of the hero because no one else
can wield the weapon or use it to its
fullest potential. It is usually given by a
mentor figure.
The Initiation
This usually takes the form of an
initiation into adult life. The adolescent
comes into his/her maturity with new
awareness and problems along with new
hope for the community.
Character Archetypes
•The Hero
•The Child
•The Trickster
•Old Man - Wisdom
The Hero
• The Hero is a protagonist whose life is a
series of well-marked adventures.
• The Hero is characterized by courage,
strength, and honor.
• He is the essence of bravery and nobility,
but he will have to sacrifice his life for the
good of the cause
The Child
• Characterized as:
Innocent and naïve
Needs protecting by adult/guardian
Most characters are actual children
An adult character can be considered “The
Child” if exhibits childlike qualities.
The child is exposed to the evils in the world.
Trickster/Deceiver
• The Trickster is a clown, or mischief maker.
• The trickster can be an ally or companion of
the hero, or may work for the villain.
He/She is commonly:
Underhanded
Mischievous
Double agent
Usually lives in dual reality
Old-Man Wizard
• Old Man Wizard introduces our hero to a larger
world that is usually unknown to him.
• Often is taken out of the story, so the hero has to
act alone and conquer the villain.
Characteristics:
Old
Wise
Often Male
Assistant to the hero or protagonist
Can you tell what archetype each of
these characters are?