1. An Underlying Element of Mythology
Archetypes
An Underlying Element of Mythology

2. Karen Armstrong, A Short History of Myth
“Myths are universal and timeless stories that reflect and shape our lives – they mirror our desires, our fears, our longings, and provide narratives that attempt to help us make sense of the world.”

3. An original model after which other similar things are patterned.
What is an archetype?
An original model after which other similar things are patterned.

4. An archetype might model...
• A theme or situation • A symbol • A character

5. Archetypal Themes/Situations
Some Examples: • The Hero’s Quest • The Loss of Innocence • The Initiation Into Adulthood • The Creation of the World

6. Archetypal Characters
Some Examples: • The Chosen One • The Serpent • The Trickster • The Damsel in Distress

7. Let’s look at some specific archetypal characters we often encounter in myths and stories about heroes

8. The Chosen One
Must typically fulfill an ancient prophecy to save the world
Is almost always of humble origins or discovers he is from nobility
Often requires the help of a Wise Old Man to fulfill his destiny
Requires multiple sidekicks, often with radically different skills

9. The Chosen One …
Harry Potter
Aragorn
Mario
Peter, Lucy, Edmund and Susan
Anakin & Luke Skywalker
Sam Winchester

10. The Clumsy Hero
• A well-meaning person who often accidentally destroys friend and foe alike

11. The Clumsy hero …
Inspector Gadget
WALL-E
Edward Scissorhands
Jar Jar Binks

12. The Contender
An athlete with raw talent, but who must rely on the guidance of a Wise Old Man or similar character in order to overcome internal limitations in order to triumph

13. The Contender…
The Karate Kid
The Mighty Ducks
Cool Runnings Bobsled Team

14. The Sidekick
• Assistant to the hero; sometimes acts like comedic relief, but can be surprisingly brave and resourceful

15. The Sidekick …
Samwise Gamgee
Spock
Robin
Chewbacca
Luigi and Waluigi

16. The Competent Man
• Can do anything well; repair a machine, fight, cook a meal, build a house, etc.

17. The Competent Man …
Indiana Jones
James Bond
Iron Man

18. The Wise Old Man
• An elderly character who offers advice and guidance to the protagonists

19. The Wise Old Man …
Merlin
Obi Wan Kenobi
Gandalf
Dumbledore
John Winchester/Bobby
Eddard Stark