Archetype Research Essay Senior Project Part 1
Step 1: Read the prompt and rubric Read through both, then annotate in the margins and underline important requirements
Step 2: Use your class notes; create a list Dig out your class notes on archetypes, as well as your archetype self- assessment List major characteristics associated with your archetype. Include both positive and shadow qualities.
Step 3: Brainstorm character from fiction Now, looking at your list of character traits, list characters from books you have read that fit these characteristics, or historical figures whom you believe fit these characteristics. These can be books you have read for school or outside of school or for SSR. You may not use a fairytale project character. Of those characters you just listed, pick two. Write down all the reasons you believe each of those characters fits your archetype. Provide examples and be specific. Write down all the reasons you believe each of those characters does not fit your archetype. Provide examples and be specific.
Step 4: Brainstorm a well-known historical figure Look at your list from step 2. Now, looking at your list of character traits, list historical figures who may fit these characteristics. Of those historical figures you just listed, pick two. Write down all the reasons you believe each of those characters fits your archetype. Provide examples and be specific. Write down all the reasons you believe each of those characters does not fit your archetype. Provide examples and be specific. You will do research outside of class to find out about his or her life (look at item II on the directions sheet).
Step 4: Compare/contrast to yourself Look at your people (literary figure and historical figure) and their characteristics. In what ways are you similar to these characters/people? How are you different? You will clearly not have faced the same potentially unrealistic adventures or lived in the public spotlight as they have but, at the core, what do you share?
Step 5: Write the paper You have completed the prewriting (minus the research on the historical figure). Your job, some time between now and Tuesday, is to write this essay. Guidelines are listed at the bottom of the directions sheet. Make sure to compare your essay to the rubric. Hard copy and Turnitin.com are required for it to be considered “on time.”