Consider: Avoiding conflict is the best solution.

Character Archetypes – What are they? Psychologist Carl Jung noticed universal patterns in all stories, cultures, and even in dreams people have. He called these patters ARCHETYPES. A character archetype shows up in the stories of many cultures around the world. Although an archetype may differ slightly (in appearance) from culture to culture, they play a similar role in many stories. Many characters fit into pre-existing archetypal patterns. Think of character archetypes as the same character reappearing with a different face and name.

The Hero Archetype The hero archetype is the most common character archetype. The hero is also the most complicated. Most of the time, the protagonist of any story will fit some or all of the “hero” characteristics. Generally, the hero is the hero because he or she embarks on a “Hero’s Quest” The circumstances surrounding the characters conception or birth are unusual. An attempt is made to kill the hero at birth. Early in his life, he is taken away and raised by foster parents. Upon reaching adulthood, he returns home, where his true identity is discovered. After a victory over an evil force, (monster, beast, villain, etc.), he marries a princess (or other important lady), and becomes king (or gains other important position).

The Trickster Archetype

Characteristics Also known as a jester, fool, or comedian . Readers can understand the trickster archetype because, like all of us, he/she is both good and bad. The trickster is often deceptive, mysterious, shadowy, and a trick-player (hence the name). At their best, they are joyful, carefree, and original. At their worst, they are irresponsible, cruel, and reckless. The trickster is known as a ‘shape-shifter’, which means they can alter themselves as well as situations for their own good. The trickster often breaks or bends the rules usually to teach a lesson to the protagonist or reader.

In West Africa, the trickster is known as Anansi, the spider. In Japan, Korea, and China, the fox sometimes appears as the trickster

Tricksters Archetypes in popular culture

Archetype Info-Text Project Select an archetype that you want to learn more about. You will research it to become the expert on this archetype and act as a resource for your classmates. You can’t choose hero, villain, or trickster archetypes. Consider what defines your archetype. Characteristics? Motivations? Types of situations we expect to see your archetype in? Physical appearance? How do they relate to others? Requirements: You must provide three examples of your one chosen archetype (from books, movies, comics, tv shows, etc.) Images: Draw/print a visual image of all 3 examples. Label and organize them neatly on the poster paper provided. Writing: briefly explain (bullet point) who each one is and why they demonstrate the characteristics of your particular archetype. Due Wednesday, January 10th at the beginning of class

List of some Character Archetypes The Initiate (Innocent) The Star-Crossed Lovers The Outcast (Rebel, Revolutionary) The Platonic Ideal The Mentor (Sage, Scholar, Teacher) The Creature of Nightmare The Group of Companions The Damsel in Distress The Explorer (Traveler) The Temptress/Seductress The Creator (Artist/Dreamer) The Magician (Shaman) The Scapegoat

Making Connections and inferences Josh wondered if he could pass for a university student Josh squirmed mentally in the bus seat Josh felt uncomfortable around people Josh realized he was sweating 1. What can you infer about Josh from these sentences? 2. What kind of situations might he be in?