Discuss the similarities between Cinderella and Snow White or the similarities between Batman and Spiderman. What events happen in each story that make them similar? Why do we see such similarities amongst storylines and characters?

“There are only two or three human stories, and they go on repeating themselves as fiercely as if they had never happened before.” ~Willa Cather ARCHETYPES IN LITERATURE

Archetype A generic model of a character, situation, or concept. Many characters from stories that have been written recently or in the distant past use characters, situations, or concepts that share similar traits or are developed based on the classic models. For example, the audience sees the hero’s quest as an archetypal plot in myths and legends from different cultures around the world…The Odyssey, Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones, The Princess Bride…

The courageous figure Usually the protagonist (what’s this?) The one who’s always running in and saving the day The hero is also known as … The Hero

The Warrior (aka the Hero) The mature, usually male, character who overcomes the physical challenges in life. He gives his best, does not quit, and often makes great personal sacrifices, subjugating his needs for the greater good. He is not afraid to die for his beliefs. He fights with honor & not out of anger. Examples: Harry Potter, Luke Skywalker

The sidekick This character displays great loyalty to another character, such as the hero. He/she may appear somewhat naïve and is often taken for granted.

The outcast This archetype is exactly what you would expect from the name He/she has been cast out of society or has left it on a voluntary basis. Examples:

The innocent Usually a child, youth, or inexperienced adult Has not yet been corrupted This character’s naivety is sometimes the brunt of jokes Their strengths are being faithful and optimistic Often seen in white clothing Examples:

The underdog A character who is not likely to stand out or succeed who sometimes surprises the reader/audience by overcoming great challenges and excelling despite the odds being stacked against him/her. Examples:

The scapegoat The scapegoat figure is the one who gets blamed for everything, regardless of whether he/she is actually at fault. Often these characters are more powerful in death than while living. Fun Fact: The term “scapegoat” has been used throughout history.

The mother figure Comforts and directs the child character, especially when he/she is confused and needs guidance. This character sometimes has powers that can be called on for help when needed. Examples:

The shrew This is the nagging, bothersome, (usually) old woman who is always battering her husband or some other “youngsters” with verbal abuse. Unpleasant and ill-tempered Example:

The star-crossed lovers This is the young couple joined by love but unexpectedly parted by fate. Doomed to fail Not accepted by family or society Sometimes these characters are just ill-fated friendships

The villain The evil character whose aim is to destroy or overcome the hero. Often motivated by jealousy, selfishness, or greed. Examples: Disney villainsDisney villains

The trickster A character who makes decisions or takes action without giving enough thought to the decision. Sometimes these actions are taken at the expense of another character. Such actions can lead to a domino effect of undesirable consequences. Not usually an “evil” character. These characters are more thoughtless and mischievous than strictly bad.

Archetype Situations Like characters, many situations within stories come from the same mold. Some are: the task, the quest, the loss of innocence, and the initiation/coming of age. What Makes a Hero?

The Task A situation in which a character, or group of characters, is driven to complete some duty of monstrous proportion.

The quest A quest describes a search for someone or something of great power or importance Here, the character(s) are searching for something whether consciously or unconsciously. Their actions, thoughts, and feelings center around the goal of completing this quest.

The loss of innocence This is, as the name implies, a loss of innocence through relationship, violence, or any other means. Shows a descent from a higher to lower state of being

The initiation/coming of age This is the process by which a character is brought into another sphere of influence, such as into adulthood. Symbolizes a rite of passage Example – Masons created an initiation process that many secret societies still follow to date

Archetypes There are MANY more archetypes. This presentation introduces only a few. The important thing to do is to try and figure out where you can see all of theses archetypes. They’re everywhere!