Situational Archetypes

Situational Archetypes

Definition Archetypes are things patterned after an original and many are so common that you often don’t need extensive knowledge of the original to appreciate the meaning or intent.

The Task To save the kingdom, to identify himself so that he may assume his rightful position the hero must perform some nearly superhuman deed

The Fall This archetype describes a descent from a higher to a lower state of being. The experience involves a defilement and/or loss of innocence.

Death and Rebirth The most common of all situational archetypes, this motif grows out of the parallel between the cycle of nature and life. Morning and springtime represent rebirth, birth, and youth; evening and winter suggest old age and death.

Battle between Good and Evil a battle between two primal forces – mankind shows eternal optimism in continual portrayal of good triumphing over evil despite great odds

The Magic Weapon This symbolizes the extraordinary quality of the hero because no one else can wield the weapon or use it to its fullest potential. It is usually given by a mentor figure.

The Initiation This usually takes the form of an initiation into adult life. The adolescent comes into his/her maturity with new awareness and problems along with new hope for the community.

Character Archetypes •The Hero •The Child •The Trickster •Old Man - Wisdom

The Hero • The Hero is a protagonist whose life is a series of well-marked adventures. • The Hero is characterized by courage, strength, and honor. • He is the essence of bravery and nobility, but he will have to sacrifice his life for the good of the cause

The Child • Characterized as: Innocent and naïve Needs protecting by adult/guardian Most characters are actual children An adult character can be considered “The Child” if exhibits childlike qualities.

The child is exposed to the evils in the world.

Trickster/Deceiver • The Trickster is a clown, or mischief maker. • The trickster can be an ally or companion of the hero, or may work for the villain. He/She is commonly: Underhanded Mischievous Double agent Usually lives in dual reality

Old-Man Wizard • Old Man Wizard introduces our hero to a larger world that is usually unknown to him. • Often is taken out of the story, so the hero has to act alone and conquer the villain. Characteristics: Old Wise Often Male Assistant to the hero or protagonist

Can you tell what archetype each of these characters are?