1. The Eight Hero Archetypes
The Definition of the Hero:
From Shrek to Wolverine and Everyone Else in Between
The Eight Hero Archetypes

2. What is an archetype?
The term “archetypes” signifies ancient patterns of personality and relationships that appear across the world’s myths, legends, and folk tales.
Archetypes and stereotypes are not the same thing.
The term was first employed heavily by psychologist Carl Jung.

3. The Chief A dynamic leader Has time for nothing but work
Tough, decisive, goal-oriented
Can be overbearing or inflexible

4. The Bad Boy Dangerous to know Walks on the wild side The rebel
Bitter and volatile
Charismatic
Street Smart

5. Sweet and safe Never lets anyone down Mr. Nice Guy
The Best Friend
Sweet and safe
Never lets anyone down
Mr. Nice Guy
He’ll always be there

6. The Charmer
Fun
Irresistible
Not too responsible or dependable

7. The Lost Soul A sensitive, understanding guy
Secretive, brooding and unforgiving
Vulnerable
Might be a wanderer or an outcast

8. The Professor Coolly analytical He knows every answer
Logical, introverted, and inflexible
Honest and faithful

9. Needs thrills to keep him happy
The Swashbuckler
Mr. Excitement
Action, action, action
Needs thrills to keep him happy

10. The Warrior A noble champion Acts with honor
The knight in shining armor
The protector
Sticks up for the underdog

11. Can you provide an example of each?
Archetypes
Big Paper
The Chief
The Bad Boy
The Best Friend
The Charmer
The Lost Soul
The Professor
The Swashbuckler
The Warrior
On a large piece of newsprint, list as many examples as you can of each heroic archetype.
Explain why you think each character would fall into that particular category.

12. Tonight’s Homework
Write one page about a book, movie, or television series that employs these heroic archetypes.
Identify the heroic characters in the program, define which archetype they represent, and use particular examples to explain why they fit into the category you chose for them.
Some suggestions: 24, X-Men, Lost, One Tree Hill, Lord of the Rings, House.