ArchetypesArchetypes

DefinitionDefinition

An archetype is a universal symbol.

These symbols stretch across time and

culture.

Originator of the Idea of Originator of the Idea of ArchetypesArchetypes

Carl Jung developed the idea of archetypes. He believed that man has unconscious, pre-existing images that act as organizing principles for what we see and do.

Literary Symbols Literary Symbols vs. vs.

ArchetypesArchetypes

Literary Symbol: a symbol that is specific to one work of literature

Archetype: a symbol that is not specific to one work of literature but is relevant in many works of literature throughout time and cultures.

Character Character ArchetypesArchetypes

The HeroThe Hero Spirited away and raised by foster parents

Almost nothing is known about his childhood

Upon reaching manhood he returns to his future kingdom

Has a victory over a king or beast

Marries a princess (gets the girl)

Has a mysterious death

The Young Man from the The Young Man from the ProvincesProvinces

Hero is spirited away as a young man and raised by strangers. He later returns to his home and heritage where he is a stranger who can see new problems and new solutions.

The InitiatesThe Initiates

These are young heroes or heroines who, prior to their quest, must

endure some training and ceremony. They are usually innocent and often

wear white.

MentorsMentors

These individuals serve as teachers or counselors to the initiates. Sometimes they work as role models and often serve as a father or mother figure.

Mentor-Pupil RelationshipMentor-Pupil Relationship

The mentor teaches by example the skills necessary to survive the quest.

Father-Son ConflictFather-Son Conflict

Tension often results from separation during childhood or from an external source. When the

individuals meet as men, the mentor often has a higher place in the affections of the hero than the

natural parent.

Group of Hunting Group of Hunting CompanionsCompanions

Loyal companions willing to face any number of perils for the experience of being together to share life’s adventures.

Loyal RetainersLoyal Retainers

These individuals are somewhat like servants who are heroic themselves. Their duty is to protect the hero and reflect the nobility of the hero.

Friendly BeastFriendly Beast

This creature shows that even nature is on the side of the hero.

The Devil FigureThe Devil Figure

Evil incarnate, this character offers worldly goods,

fame, or knowledge to the

protagonist in exchange for

possession of the soul.

The Evil Figure with the The Evil Figure with the Ultimately Good HeartUltimately Good Heart

A redeemable devil figure

saved by the nobility or love

of the hero.

The ScapegoatThe Scapegoat

A human or animal whose death in a public ceremony expiates some taint or sin that

has been visited upon a community. Death often makes scapegoats a more powerful force in the society than when they lived.

Who is our most famous scapegoat?

The OutcastThe Outcast

A figure who is banished from a social group for

some crime (real or imagined) against a

fellow man. The outcast is usually

destined to become a wanderer from place to place.

The Woman The Woman FigureFigure

The Earth MotherThe Earth Mother

Symbol of fruition, abundance and fertility. She provides emotional and spiritual nourishment for those with whom she comes in contact. Usually is shown wearing earth colors. She

usually has large breasts and hips to symbolize her childbearing

capabilities.

The TemptressThe Temptress

The temptress is a sensuous beauty that physically attracts the hero. She

usually contributes to his downfall.

The Unfaithful WifeThe Unfaithful Wife

This woman is married to a

man she finds dull or boring

and is interested in a more virile or exciting man.

The Platonic IdealThe Platonic Ideal

A woman who the hero is intellectually or spiritually attracted to. They do not have a romantic relationship.

Star-Crossed LoversStar-Crossed Lovers

A couple that is in love but their relationship is not approved of by their families or society. It is fated to end tragically for one or both of them.

Creature of NightmareCreature of Nightmare

A monster created in the deepest, darkest part of the human psyche.

Usually a perversion of the human form.