character archetype essay

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What Are Character Archetypes? 16 Archetypes, Plus Examples

by Fija Callaghan

Fija Callaghan is an author, poet, and writing workshop leader. She has been recognized by a number of awards, including being shortlisting for the H. G. Wells Short Story Prize. She is the author of the short story collection Frail Little Embers , and her writing can be read in places like Seaside Gothic , Gingerbread House , and Howl: New Irish Writing . She is also a developmental editor with Fictive Pursuits. You can read more about her at fijacallaghan.com .

Have you ever stopped to wonder why classic stories seem to have so many elements in common? We see the same types of characters in everything from 18th-century literature, to contemporary novels, to modern film and TV. And yet, each story feels as fresh and engaging as if we were seeing it for the first time.

This is because of archetypes: the timeless lineup of players that has stayed with us for generations because they’ve been proven to make effective stories.

Archetypal characters are successful in literature because they reflect real human truths that exist in every one of us. Let’s look at what archetypes are, some of the common archetypes that will populate your work, and how to subvert archetypes in bold new ways.

What are character archetypes?

A character archetype is a recurring stock character that represents something universal in our human experience. They’re immediately recognizable within novels, films, and other narrative media as fitting a predetermined pattern, even if certain details like names and physical attributes change. Writers can use these familiar patterns to engage with readers in a comfortable and relatable way.

Archetypes create an immediate sense of familiarity, even in an unfamiliar story, because they’re people that we’ve met time and time again. Even though we’ve seen them and their stories a hundred times, they still have the power to surprise us.

This isn’t quite the same as a stock character. Stock characters and archetypes are sometimes used interchangeably, but while an archetypal character represents a universal truth, a stock character is a more narrow character type with particular personality traits. Some examples might be things like “the bad boy,” “the mad scientist,” “the benevolent ruler.” They don’t necessarily have the same negative connotations as a stereotype (we’ll look more at stereotypes below), but they do represent a popular cliché.

By understanding character archetypes and applying them to our writing, we can connect with the stories our readers have grown up with and immerse them in the world of our own story from the very beginning. Then our readers get to see how we’ve taken these common character archetypes and used them in surprising new ways to create dynamic, multilayered characters that propel our story forward.

Character archetypes vs. story archetypes

In literature you’ll hear about two different kinds of archetypes: character archetypes and story archetypes. Both of these literary devices represent universal patterns that we can recognize in almost all stories across cultures throughout history.

The difference is that while character archetypes refer to the individual people that populate the world of your story—such as heroes, villains, mentors, and others that we’ll look at further below— story archetypes refer to the patterns of events and themes that drive the story towards its conclusion.

What’s the difference between archetypes and stereotypes?

Character archetypes and stereotypes share a lot of similarities, but the main difference is that character archetypes represent inherent truths in human nature, while stereotypes represent a pattern of (usually negative) traits that have become attributed to a particular gender, culture, or type of person.

Stereotypes are often born from one small true thing—that may only have been true for one person or one small group of people—which then grows into a vast generalization. These generalizations are flat, uninteresting, and contain nothing of the beautiful complexity that human beings have as individuals.

Examples of stereotypes are things like a ditzy prom queen, a shy nerd, a dumb sports athlete, the girl-next-door, an absent-minded professor, an idealistic starving artist, or a schoolyard bully.

Stereotypes rarely accomplish anything other than making your story flat, uninteresting, and cliché. Stories stuffed full of stereotypical characters are usually forgotten as soon as the book is closed, instead of becoming a story that will stay with its readers for generations.

As a writer, you have the entire landscape of the human condition from which to fashion your characters. That’s exciting and inspiring, and a stereotype that makes its way into your story is nothing more than a missed opportunity to create memorable characters that are dynamic and real.

Why use character archetypes in writing?

Even though the common character archetypes we’re going to show you are all very different, they share one important element: each of them represents a small piece of ourselves—of what it is to be human. Everyone has the capacity to be a reluctant hero, a mentor, a lover, even a villain. By creating stories built out of these universal ideas, we’re speaking to a very real truth that our readers will recognize, because these truths also exist in them.

By using these truths of our collective unconscious, you’re starting out with a structural framework that reflects the entire spectrum of the human condition. Then you can enhance that framework with context, themes, and other literary devices to create a story that will resonate with every reader.

The 16 classic character archetypes

Unlike stereotypes, which are extremely limited in their scope, character archetypes offer you a base structure from which you can begin building the people of your story world. Here are the 16 classic archetypes that you can use in your writing.

1. The Hero

The Hero is the axis on which a story revolves. They’re usually thrown into extraordinary circumstances beyond their control through which they need to fight for a singular objective. Along the way the hero’s strength will be tested in a number of ways—maybe physically, mentally, spiritually, and/or morally.

These trials will reveal exceptional strengths that set them apart from other characters in the story. These might be things like supernatural powers or a momentous birthright, or it might be something simple that comes from their humanity—a remarkable sense of compassion, an iron determination and sense of self, great courage in the face of terrifying acts. They might be natural leaders, or have a heightened survival instinct. Heroes are not flawless (pro tip: they’d be quite boring if they were), but the strength they exhibit in times of hardship is what will make your reader believe in them and follow them right up until the end.

One of the oldest universal story patterns in literature is called “The Hero’s Journey.” Also called the “Monomyth,” the hero’s journey follows the protagonist through an adventurous cycle of navigating an irrevocably changed world, passing through an initiation or coming-of-age, achieving a goal, and returning home to rebuild from a new beginning. Although your hero is the central axis of your story, they don’t carry it alone (even if sometimes they think they do). Along the way the hero will meet many of the character archetypes listed below—some as obstacles, and some as friends.

Examples of heroes in literature are Wonder Woman, Harry Potter, Luke Skywalker, and Sir Gawain from Sir Gawain and the Green Knight .

2. The Shadow

The Shadow is a dark reflection of the hero. They might show us weaknesses in the hero that they fight to keep hidden, or what the hero could become if they allowed those weaknesses to consume them. In many ways, we all have this “shadow personality” (psychoanalyst Carl Jung believed it was an integral part of the human psyche) but in literature the shadow will either be a person mirroring the hero’s darkest traits and their darkest potential, or a very distinctive facet of the hero—for example, if they change their personality completely while under the influence of drugs, manipulation, or some external force. Very often you’ll see these characters take on two separate names for their opposing polarities, such as Angel and Angelus on the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer .

Other examples of shadow archetypes are Gollum in The Lord of the Rings and Mr. Hyde in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde .

3. The Sidekick

Sidekicks have been popularized by the comic book medium, but the idea has existed for much longer. The sidekick’s main role is to offer the hero a way to stay grounded despite all the obstacles they’re facing. This might be through comic relief or through cautionary advice (or both). The sidekick lacks whatever fundamental value has put the hero on their path—perhaps they’re not as brave, or not as strong, or not the “chosen one”—and they don’t carry the weight of the world in the same way. What they can do is offer a light in the darkness when your hero begins to lose some integral piece of themselves. Your sidekick keeps the hero from getting too close to the edge.

Very often sidekicks in literature serve as a foil character to the protagonist. This means that they work in juxtaposition to the hero to draw attention to certain aspects of their personality. A great example of this is Batman and Robin, where everything about Robin’s brightly colored costume, his chattiness, and his positive energy contrast the darkness of Batman’s character.

Other examples of sidekicks include Friday from Robinson Crusoe and Ron Weasley from Harry Potter.

4. The Villain

The villain archetype is the big baddie of your story —the challenge to which all roads lead. This character has an objective that is in direct conflict with the hero’s , and in order for them to reach their goal, they need to make sure that the main character is unable to reach theirs . This might be through killing them, humiliating them, discrediting them, or otherwise forcing them into submission.

The villain always has a reason for doing the terrible things that they do, even if that reason is twisted beyond what we might understand in our own perceptions and values. The best villains in literature are ones who truly believe that they’re doing the right thing, but have allowed their vision of the “right thing” to become clouded with ambition, fear, or pain.

Some iconic villains in literature are Valentine from The Mortal Instruments , Professor Moriarty from the “Sherlock Holmes” stories, and Shere Khan from The Jungle Book .

5. The Lover

In a story, the lover archetype really just wants everyone to get along. They’re usually a “good” character, in the sense of having a functioning moral compass, but they lack the courage, sense of injustice, and capacity for self-sacrifice that the hero has. Though guided by the needs of their heart, lovers tend to take the path of least resistance that brings the least amount of harm to themselves and those they care for. Many traditionally artistic characters will fall into this category.

In some ways, the lover is a reflection of the trickster archetype, which we’ll look at further below. Both try to stay out of trouble and have a limited scope of what’s worth fighting for.

Examples of great lover archetypes in stories are Dustfinger in Inkheart and Pippin from The Lord of the Rings .

6. The Mentor

One of the most essential figures in the hero’s journey, the mentor is older (sometimes), wiser (always), and has knowledge and experiences beyond that of the hero’s. They may also have supernatural powers or a particularly specialized skill set. The mentor serves to give the protagonist a little nudge (or a violent shove) forward onto their path, bringing out the potential of what that hero will become.

The mentor is also a great tool for exposition and immersing your reader into your story. As the mentor teaches the hero about their world, the threats they’ll be facing, the steps they can take to overcome those threats, and how to develop the skills necessary to do so, your readers will learn everything they need to know about your story world right alongside them.

The most recognizable mentor figure in modern literature is the wizard Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings . Other examples include Haymitch Abernath from The Hunger Games and Merlin from the tales of King Arthur.

7. The Mother

Made famous by the godmothers of classic fairy tales, the mother archetype represents a supportive, nurturing presence in the hero’s life. They won’t always be a literal mother (although they can be); they don’t even necessarily need to be female. The mother character is strong and wise, but they differ from the mentor figure in that they don’t give the hero the tools they need to move forward on their journey; rather, they give the hero a safe place to come home to, a place to heal.

Depending on where the hero is on their journey, there may be more than one character filling this role. Aunt May from “Spider-man” and Nokomis from The Song of Hiawatha are examples of mother archetypes.

8. The Everyman

The everyman character is a projection of the reader. They’re an utterly normal person thrown into remarkable circumstances, and they adapt to the situation in much the same way that any one of us would. They usually say what they’re thinking and call things out that don’t make sense, and their normality might make them an outsider in a world where very un-normal things are happening. This archetype functions to bring some perspective to the story and make the plot more relatable to us as readers.

The everyman might be an unwilling hero, or they might be a sidekick or other supporting character that acts as a link between the main character and the reader.

Dr. John Watson from the “Sherlock Holmes” stories is an everyman—faced with a genius best friend and some equally genius villains, he brings a comforting averageness to their world. Other examples of the everyman archetype are Arthur Dent from The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy and Simon Lewis from The Mortal Instruments .

9. The Damsel

The iconic damsel-in-distress is one of the most recognizable literary tropes , but this character can take many forms of any age and any gender. Sometimes called the “innocent,” they represent naivety, inexperience, and trust. The damsel is similar to the everyman in that they see everything with new eyes; but unlike the everyman, the damsel never gives up the idea that there’s good in the world. They cling to their innocence even when the events around them threaten to strip it away. Unfortunately, this determined positivity can lead them into some difficult situations, often requiring the services of a hero to rescue them.

In a story, this archetype reminds us that there is always hope and wonder to be found in the world. Examples of classic damsels in literature are Alice from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Tiny Tim from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol .

10. The Trickster

Tricksters are perhaps our most enduring character archetype , even more so than heroes. Before storytellers were repeating tales of Beowulf and King Arthur, they were gathering around the fire listening to stories about Coyote, Raven, and the spider god Anansi. Tricksters are neither good nor evil, but use cunning and cleverness to further their own ends. They might help the hero or they might hinder them, depending on which best suits their own agenda at the time.

The trickster has given rise to one of our most popular modern archetypes, the antihero . Antiheroes are usually tricksters who, rather begrudgingly, have become invested in something more than just their own survival. They then need to reassess their goals which launch them onto a new path to becoming a hero in their own right.

Examples of famous tricksters in literature include Puck from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream , the Weasley twins from the Harry Potter series, and Loki from Norse mythology.

11. The Guardian

The guardian archetype is someone who stands at a threshold, holding the hero back from continuing on their journey. Guardians are usually quite single-minded and fixated on their goal of keeping two worlds, people, or experiences separated. Sometimes this might be someone guarding a literal doorway, such as the Sphinx of Egyptian mythology; other times it might be a new stage of life, such as an admissions officer who stands between a student and their dream school.

Guardians challenge the hero to reassess their situation and look at things in a new way. If the hero continues using the same strengths, tools, or techniques as they always have, they won’t make it past the threshold. They’ll need to try something different, probably something less comfortable, and exercise a new skill in order to continue towards their goal. By the time they make their way across the obstacle, they will have grown as a result of stretching the limits of who they can be.

Examples of guardians in literature are the Wall guards from Neil Gaiman’s Stardust , the gatekeeper to the Emerald City in The Wizard of Oz , and the three-headed dog Fluffy from the Harry Potter series.

12. The Herald

The herald is a character that foretells a great change , usually near the beginning of the story. After they’ve made their appearance, nothing will be the same for the hero again. An example of a herald can be found in the classic fairy tale Cinderella , where a messenger shows up to announce that the king is seeking a match for his son, launching the plot into action.

Although the herald’s job is to set the events of the plot in motion, they may also hang around to fill another role in the story later on. In The Hobbit , for instance, Gandalf begins as the herald by marking Bilbo’s door, and then shifts into a mentor figure once the story is on its feet. Other examples of heralds in literature are Effie Trinket in The Hunger Games and the three witches in Macbeth .

13. The Scapegoat

In literature, the scapegoat archetype is someone who takes the blame for another’s misdeeds. This often works a bit like a reverse guardian—their defeat clears the way for the villain to move forward towards their goal. Using a scapegoat allows your characters to unite against a common perceived enemy, thereby (temporarily) dispersing whatever tensions had been brewing. This is a useful literary device for turning the plot in a new direction.

Daphne Du Maurier’s The Scapegoat explores this idea in depth, looking at how someone might handle being burdened with another’s malefactions. Scapegoats in literature include Snowball from Animal Farm and Wilmer from The Maltese Falcon .

14. The Outlaw

The outlaw’s key strengths are their independence and the sense of self that keeps them from bending to societal constraints. This doesn’t always make them a lot of friends, but the ones they have are loyal and share the same ideas about what matters in life. The outlaw is often romanticized and well-liked, but other characters may grow to resent them through their envy of the outlaw’s lifestyle and freedom from expectations.

The outlaw is a major archetype in both The Adventures of Robin Hood and the original Spiderman comics, where the outlaw’s antagonists—the Sheriff of Nottingham and the newspaper man J. Jonah Jameson—express their hidden envy of a life that they could never have. Sometimes this animosity will put the outlaw onto a new path, turning them into a hero as their self-contained existence begins crumbling down.

Other outlaws in literature are Roux from Chocolat by Joanne Harris, and Maurice Leblanc’s character Arsène Lupin from the series of the same name.

15. The Rebel

Also called the revolutionary, the rebel archetype epitomizes “chaotic good”; they have a cause and they’re not afraid to burn a few bridges, or cities, in its name. The rebel sees something deeply wrong in their society and takes it upon themselves to change it, because nobody else is going to. The rebel archetype is deeply protective of the ones they love but tend to alienate all but the most devoted due to their inflammatory ideas.

The rebel is a natural leader, and their passion for their cause makes people want to follow them. This passion is boundless and transcends minor annoyances like common sense, which means that this archetype can be a hero, a villain, or an antihero that falls somewhere in the middle. Examples of rebels in literature include Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games , Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird , and Lyra Belacqua from His Dark Materials .

16. The Ruler

The ruler is a natural leader in a position of power, such as a monarchy, a government office, or the head of a powerful company. Unlike the leadership skills displayed by the rebel, the ruler archetype thrives on order, stability, and tradition. They thrive in the status quo. They can be a force for good or for ill, but they will usually be put at odds with the hero for one simple reason: the ruler likes the way things are and doesn’t want them to change.

While every one of us has the capacity to lead in times of conflict, not everyone handles being in a position of authority very well. Power corrupts, and even good people can find their values tested if they’re given too much power too quickly. This is why many ruler archetypes find themselves embroiled in conflict with those around them.

Some ruler archetypes in literature are King Uther from the Arthurian legends and Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada .

How to use character archetypes in your story

As you can see, character archetypes represent a range of people from all across literature. Don’t feel like you need to limit the cast of your story to just one of these archetypes—sometimes characters will fill more than one role in a story, or their role will change. Let’s look at a few things to keep in mind as you use archetypes to build characters.

1. Give your characters room to grow

Although character archetypes are useful building blocks, they essentially represent a static blueprint. In a good story, your characters will change over time as they learn, make mistakes, go through difficult experiences and come out stronger on the other side. If you begin with a character archetype, don’t feel that you need to stay within its boundaries for the entire story. Give your character permission to surprise you, break their molds, enter into a different archetype along the way, or become something new entirely.

For example, you may have crafted a perfect sidekick for your hero. But what happens if the hero is killed in battle? How will the sidekick deal with an irrevocably altered reality where their role is no longer what they thought it was? Or maybe your character is a lover, staying out of harm’s way until they see or hear something that they can no longer turn away from. Let the story take your characters in unexpected directions.

2. Subvert expectations

Many of these character archetypes come with classic preconceptions that have become ingrained in our minds over time. These are things like the hero as a burly, club-wielding man; the damsel as a slender, doe-eyed blonde; or the mentor as a white-haired sage in the twilight of his life. These clichéd, overused ideas have fallen out of favor in contemporary literature, and writers are constantly coming up with new and fresh ways to look at these classic archetypes. See how you can take the figures you know from literature and turn them just a little bit off-center.

Instead of writing a mentor that’s a hundred and eighty and looks like your typical wizard cosplay, why not try something new? Maybe your mentor is a fourteen-year-old girl whose experiences as a computer hacker have made her wise beyond her years. Or maybe your mentor is an award-winning ballet dancer who’s training her understudy in secret. If you want a damsel archetype in your story, perhaps instead of being a dizzy love of interest for your hero, your damsel is the hero’s eternally optimistic, chronically ill younger brother. See how far you can push these character traits to bring a fresh look to your story.

3. Combine archetypes to create something new

Sometimes a character might fit into more than one archetype. As we saw above, the antihero is a perfect example of this composite character archetype, fulfilling the role of hero and trickster at the same time. See what else you can splice together to create exciting new people for your story. What happens when your hero’s mentor turns out to also be the villain? If the villain was the one giving the hero the tools and drive to complete their journey, what was the real goal in the end? Suddenly your antagonist and their relationship with the hero is brimming with complexity.

What happens if your damsel finds themselves becoming the hero? How will someone used to being taken care of handle needing to suddenly take care of others? How will their determination to see the best in the world affect their need to make difficult choices? By combining different archetypes you can raise new questions and new ideas about your characters that give a deeper dimension to your story.

Character archetypes are an easy way to structure your story

Generations of writers and storytellers have perfected these character structures in literature because they’ve recognized that they’re facets of each and every one of us. While you don’t need to limit your characters to just one archetype, they give you a reliable place to begin building from the ground up—a place that your readers will recognize as an old friend, because they’ve met them in another incarnation before. Your characters will all be as unique as you are, but they’ll also be born out of a rich heritage of storytelling.

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Archetype Essay Examples

An archetype essay explores the universal symbols and patterns that repeat across different cultures and time periods. In literature, these archetypes often manifest as characters or plot points that represent common human experiences and emotions. When deciding how to write an archetype essay, it’s essential to first identify the archetypes at play and then analyze how they contribute to the meaning of the work as a whole.

One example of an archetype is the “hero’s journey,” in which a protagonist undergoes a transformative journey or quest, facing challenges and obstacles before emerging victorious. Another example is the “wise mentor,” a character who imparts knowledge and guidance to the hero along their journey.

To write an archetype essay, begin by selecting a work of literature that contains prominent archetypes. Then, identify the specific archetypes present in the text and consider how they contribute to the meaning of the work. For example, in the classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird,” the archetype of the “innocent” is embodied by the character of Scout, who navigates the complexities of racial injustice in her small town. This archetype reinforces the novel’s themes of prejudice, justice, and moral courage.

Overall, a successful archetype essay should demonstrate a deep understanding of the archetypes at play and how they contribute to the work’s meaning. To find a perfect archetype essay example, be sure to check this section on WritingBros.

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20 Major Types of Archetypes with Examples

An archetype is a typical example that is often followed by others on account of its being the model or a primeval image. This image resides in the mental recesses of mankind and represents our collective consciousness. These models or examples could be characters, ideas, things, objects , situations, and even contexts . Some could be symbolic, while others could be real. The 20 best archetype examples in literature and movies are as follows.

Warrior Archetype

This is one of the best archetype examples. Actually, it is a character type of archetype that has resided in the mind of human beings since time immemorial and has become a reason of the argument that man is by nature at war with other men. However, this could be the other way around. Such an archetype is a symbol of courage , strength, power , ethical framework, and the support of the public. A warrior archetype is often on the right side and fights back against the invasion of the wrong side. Despite having strengths in the characters, such archetype examples could have some weaknesses, such as ego and pride. Some of the best warrior types of archetype examples are as follows.

• William Wallace in Braveheart

Child Archetype

This archetype not only presents the child as a character but also as a child storyline. A child shows up in the story having lost innocence and gained maturity or has gone from rags to riches. Most of such child characters are naïve, innocent, and childlike. These coming-of-the-age stories teach lessons about the loss of innocence and achievement of maturity. Children in such stories become adults with a reasonably balanced state of mind and the ability to have decision-making skills. Some of the best archetype characters and storylines are as follows.

• Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• The Wizard of Oz by Frank Baum

Orphan Archetype

This is the subcategory of the child archetype in which an orphan shows his survival skills, empathy, and perseverance in difficult situations after the demise of his/her parents. Such characters lose their innocence too soon and gain maturity before an appropriate time. They become highly responsible in their circles and often help their young siblings to achieve adulthood. Such characters are often protagonists having gone from rags to riches despite having a lack of confidence and willingness to please others at the cost of their self-respect. Some of the best examples of such characters are as follows.

• Cinderella in Cinderella by Charles Perrault
• Harry Potter in the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling
• Quasimodo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame by Victor Hugo

Mentor/Guide Archetype

Such type of archetype character appears in the stories to convince the readers about the significance of the old people who have experience as well as insight into worldly affairs. Such archetype characters appear in the stories helping the protagonists when they are caught in the web of difficult situations. They prepare other characters to face the world and move through trials and tribulations with their heads up. Some of these archetypes could be parents, close relatives, uncles, aunts, or even neighbors. Sometimes, they could also be wizards and leave the world when the time is ripe after having their advice given. Some of the best mentor archetypes are as follows.

• Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien
• Old Major in Animal Farm by George Orwell
• Magwitch in Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

Overcoming the Monster Story Archetype

This is the storyline archetype that has been quite common in ancient folktales, myths , and legends. In such stories, a hero appears on the scene and tries, often successfully, to save his tribe, nation, or country from some monster. Although this is a typical story archetype, some modern stories may show such protagonists with some differences. Such stories often show protagonists having a mentor, some comrades, and supernatural powers to help them. Some of the best overcoming the monster archetype stories are as follows.

• Beowulf by Anonymous
• Gilgamesh by Anonymous
• Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien

Rag-to-Riches Story Archetype

This type of story archetype is quite common in cultural folk stories as well as modern stories and even stories of modern property tycoons. Such stories present characters starting their careers from absolute poverty and working very hard to reach the pinnacles of their careers. It is not necessary that they earn just wealth; some of them could be kings, princesses, modern executives, businessmen, or military commanders. Such stories present hard-working, patient, tolerant, and persevering protagonists who could have some negative traits later in life. Some of the best rag-to-riches story archetype examples are as follows.

• Cinderella by Charles Perrault
• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
• Charlie and Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

Creator Character Archetype

Such character archetypes are not only artists but also writers, scientists, executives, and even magicians who are involved in creating ideas, thinking of out-of-the-box solutions and making things. Such characters exist as protagonists as well as antagonists . Interestingly, sometimes antagonists are better creator archetypes than the protagonists who are calm, peaceful, and comfortable when tides subside. Yet, they do not avoid taking up moral responsibilities on account of their being visionary. Their goals are often abstract in case they are idealists. Some of their positive traits are creativity, the urge to execute things, and vision. However, they also prove egotistic in case they have some good status. Some of the best creator archetype examples are as follows.

• Jekyll and Mr. Hide by R. L. Stevenson
• Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
• Willy Wonka in Charlie and Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
• Caregiver Archetype

This is also one of the best archetype characters due to the pervasiveness of the figure. For example, these characters could be parents, a father, a mother, a husband, a wife, or even an adult in the house. They are selfless, altruistic, loving, caring, and protective. Sometimes such characters grow overprotective or helicoptering due to their obsessive caregiving nature. Their positive traits include generosity and altruism. However, when they become over-protective, they also adopt some negative traits. Some of the best caregiver archetype characters are as follows.

• Jocasta in Oedipus Rex by Sophocles
• Samwise in The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R . Tolkien
• Hermoine Granger in Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling

Hero Archetype Character

The hero archetype is perhaps one of the best archetype characters in literature. It appears in stories, epics , plays, novels , and short fiction . It could be a woman, a child, a man, a warrior, or any other character. The main thing about such archetypes is that they are the main characters, make the storyline move forward, show the major themes , and outline the main ideas of the author. They have several positive traits but could have some negative when it comes to the mundane matters they think are difficult to handle. Some of the best hero archetype characters are as follows.

• Oedipus in Oedipus Rex by
• Hamlet in Hamlet by William Shakespeare
• Macbeth in Macbeth by William Shakespeare

Mentor/Sage Archetype

Although this type of archetype resembles that of the caregiver archetype, it has some specific features. A mentor is a wise fellow who thinks about the welfare of others, guides them selflessly, and helps them without any tangible interests in his/her mind. However, such sages are not relatives of the characters, specifically, the protagonists. Their major positive feature is that they guide the heroes toward the welfare of the entire city, nation, or state, but when it comes to the warning, they prove themselves neutral, egoist, and highly indifferent. Some of the best mentor or sage archetype character examples are as follows.

• Tiresias in Oedipus Rex by Sophocles
• Dumbledore in Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling

Joker Archetype Character

Although seemingly insignificant, this character archetype appears almost in every other fictional piece or play or even a poetic piece. In fact, this archetype has various types, such as a jester, fool, hedonist, or even clown. The idea that they only appear in comedy is quite outdated as far as their clownish role is concerned they appear in tragedies, too. Sometimes, they make their appearance at such a critical juncture that the entire tense situation is calmed down. Some of the best joker archetype characters are as follows.

• Fool in King Lear by William Shakespeare
• Gravedigger in Hamlet by William Shakespeare
• Joker in The Dark Night

Lover Archetype  

The lover archetype is a unique archetype in that such characters are heroes, warriors, and even soldiers. Yet, they fall in love with ladies, show emotional outbursts, prove sentimental, and in some cases, highly effeminate. They often die young when they are just lover archetype characters but are generous, kind, and caring. However, sometimes they show egoism and excessive obsession with love, proving themselves good for nothing. Some of the best love archetype characters are as follows.

• Romeo and Juliet in the same play by William Shakespeare
• Bassanio in Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare
• Darcy and Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
• Quest Archetype

This popular story archetype has so much seeped into the human unconscious that every other story seems to be a quest archetype. The hero of these stories often seems running on the quest for something. Although ancient folk tales and legends solely rely on the quest archetype , some modern stories also rely on this archetype due to its popularity and connection with the human unconscious. This quest could be for knowledge, treasure, character, love, or money. Some of the best quest archetype examples are as follows.

• Odyssey by Homer
• The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien

Ruler Archetype Character

This is one of the oldest character archetype characters that has been the starting point of every other folk tale, legend , or even myths. Most of the protagonists or even heroes were either kings or princes. This archetype has some highly positive features such as kindness , broadmindedness, wisdom, acumen, political shrewdness, and strategic decision-making skills. However, sometimes a ruler archetype could have some high or even villainous features. It, however, is not necessary that a ruler archetype is always a good ruler or a bad ruler, or even a young man. He could be any person who has statecraft skills and rules a state, country, or region. Some of the best ruler archetype characters are as follows.

• Claudius and King Hamlet by William Shakespeare
• Achilles in Iliad by Homer

Tragedy Archetype Storyline

The storyline archetype of tragedy is one of the fundamental archetypes that has been followed until now . Its protagonist is a hero, having some tragic flaws with various positive traits. The fall is often unjustified, invoking pity and fear among the audiences , specifically of the plays, but not limited to them. Thus, it accomplishes their catharsis . The hero does not need to be a young man; he could be an old man, woman, young girl, or even an orphan. Some of the best tragedy storyline archetypes are as follows.

• Oedipus Rex by Sophocles
• Hamlet by William Shakespeare
• King Lear by William Shakespeare
• Outlaw Archetype

The outlaw archetype is a type of character that appears in stories and folklore as a brigand, but he robs the rich and gives that wealth to the poor. He is involved in plundering, rebellion against the law, hiding in the forests with his comrades, and playing hide and seek with law enforcement. The images of an arrow, a saber, and a thick forest constantly reverberate in the storyline until the end comes near. Some of the best western stories revolving around such archetype characters are as follows.

• Moriarty in On the Road by Jack Kerouac
• Humbert in Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
• The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood by Howard Pyle

Magician Archetype Character

This is one of the best archetype characters that helps writers create magical stories. The magician character appears in various fantasies and even common fictional stories. Such characters are protagonists, having positive traits more than negative ones. They weave magic and help people during difficult times, along with providing advice and consultation free. Mostly, they weave magic tricks to impress others. However, some of them also turn to bad things or harm others. Some of the best magician archetype characters are as follows.

• Prospero in The Tempest by William Shakespeare
• Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings by J. K. K. Tolkien

Seductress Archetype Character

Although there are various types of women characters, one of the best archetype characters is that of a seductress. She could be termed a temptress or siren as well. Such a character is often a beautiful lass, a supernatural type of damsel, or a witch. She is beautiful with a bewitching smile and magical dimples. They appear at the moments when the lost travelers need them the most. In most cases, they lure them to their ruins. Their major positive traits are charisma and allurement, but they could be immoral and even empty of promises. Some of the best seductress archetype characters are as follows.

• Sirens or Circe in The Odyssey by Homer
• Mephistopheles in Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
• Delilah in Samson and Delilah by Camille Saint-Saëns

Leader Archetype Character

Such characters, as the title suggests, are people having charisma, the power of pull, and the articulation of language. They act as leaders when their races, tribes, or nations are facing challenging times. Then they appear on the scene and use their decision-making skills to avoid pitfalls or disasters that befall their tribes or nations. Such people are noble by birth and win the hearts and minds of the people around them merely because of their qualities. They have the most positive qualities, but sometimes they may harbor a grudge, ambition, or egotism. Some of the best leader archetype characters are as follows.

• Creon in Oedipus Rex by Sophocles
• King Hamlet in Hamlet by William Shakespeare
• Ralph in Lord of the Flies by William Golding

Explorer Archetype Character

Such characters are explorers and inventors by nature. They move out of their places and move into the world to explore more about it. They roam around in forests to explore new worlds, go out on expeditions and watch out for new flora and fauna. However, they are not expeditious by nature though they could be curious and ingenious. Most of such characters have positive traits, but some could have some negative traits that make them look like villains. Some of the best explorer archetype characters are as follows.

• Odysseus in The Odyssey by Homer
• Alice in Alice in The Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
• Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift

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43+ Character Archetypes Every Writer Needs to Know

Every great story begins with unique, memorable characters. But how do you create characters that feel authentic and complex?

The answer lies in character archetypes—universal blueprints that reflect the core of human experience.

In this guide, you’ll discover 43+ character archetypes that can transform your protagonists, antagonists, and supporting characters – and give your novels , short stories and screenplays the emotional depth they deserve.

Want to go straight to the character archetypes? Click here to go to the beginning of the list!

Common Character Archetype Sets

There is no single set of roles universally accepted, but these are the most common and widely known character archetypes:

The 12 Jungian Character Archetypes (Carl Jung)

These are universal roles that tap into the human psyche:

The Innocent – Optimistic and pure, seeks happiness and safety.

The Everyman – Relatable and grounded, desires belonging and connection.

The Hero – Brave and determined, strives to prove worth and overcome challenges.

The Caregiver – Nurturing and selfless, prioritizes helping and protecting others.

The Explorer – Adventurous and curious, driven by a desire for freedom and discovery.

The Rebel – Defiant and disruptive, challenges norms to bring about change.

The Lover – Passionate and devoted, motivated by relationships and connection.

The Creator – Visionary and innovative, focused on building and expressing originality.

The Jester – Humorous and playful, lightens the mood and reveals truths through wit.

The Sage – Wise and analytical, seeks truth and deeper understanding.

The Magician – Transformative and inspiring, aims to turn dreams into reality.

The Ruler – Commanding and responsible, seeks to create order and control chaos.

The Hero’s Journey Archetypes (Joseph Campbell)

These are the roles in the classic hero’s journey narrative:

The Hero – Protagonist of the journey, called to action and transformation.

The Mentor – Guides and prepares the hero, offering wisdom and tools.

The Threshold Guardian – Blocks the hero’s path, testing their resolve.

The Herald – Announces the call to adventure, sparking the hero’s journey.

The Shadow – Represents the hero’s greatest fear or ultimate antagonist.

The Trickster – Brings mischief and unpredictability, challenging the hero’s plans.

The Shapeshifter – Keeps the hero guessing, with shifting loyalties or roles.

The Allies – Support the hero with skills, companionship, or resources.

The Villain – Opposes the hero directly, embodying conflict and danger.

In the next sections, we’ll look more closely at each of these common character archetypes – and some lesser-known ones, too!

I’ve separated the archetypes into different types, such as heroic, villainous, and supporting archetypes. Feel free to go straight to the type of character you’d like to learn more about!

Heroic Archetypes

Heroic archetypes are characters who face challenges, grow through their journey, and inspire others with their bravery and determination.

Strengths: Hero archetype characters are brave, determined, and self-sacrificing. They face challenges head-on and put others’ needs above their own.

Weaknesses: Prone to arrogance and overconfidence, which can lead to mistakes or unnecessary risks.

Motivations: Driven by a sense of duty to save others and a desire to prove their worth, either to themselves or those around them.

Example: Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings shows bravery and determination in his quest to destroy the One Ring – despite overwhelming dangers and his own self-doubt.

The Anti-Hero

Strengths: The anti-hero is resourceful and good at solving problems. Their moral ambiguity helps them make difficult choices that others might avoid.

Weaknesses: They can be selfish and cynical, often struggling to trust or care about others.

Motivations: Anti-heroes are usually motivated by personal gain or survival – but they sometimes help others if it also benefits them in some way.

Example: Walter White from Breaking Bad is a quintessential anti-hero. He uses his resourcefulness and scientific knowledge to survive and thrive in the drug trade while also battling his own moral conflicts.

The Reluctant Hero

Strengths: The reluctant hero is empathetic and grounded. They care deeply for others and often have a strong moral compass.

Weaknesses: They struggle with hesitation and self-doubt, often questioning their ability to succeed or whether they’re the right person for the task.

Motivations: Their actions are driven by a sense of duty and responsibility, even if they initially resist taking on the role.

Example: Bilbo Baggins from The Hobbit is a reluctant hero, hesitant to leave the comfort of his home but ultimately rising to the challenge to help his friends.

The Chosen One

Strengths: Has special abilities or qualities that make them the key to their world’s survival or destiny.

Weaknesses: They feel the weight of expectations and struggle with being the only one who can succeed.

Motivations: Driven by the need to fulfill a prophecy or save the world, their journey is often about accepting their role and rising to the challenge.

Example: Harry Potter from Harry Potter is the ultimate chosen one, as he is destined to kill Voldemort from birth. Despite many doubts and obstacles along the way, he accepts his fate and fights for the greater good.

The Tragic Hero

Strengths: The tragic hero is noble and ambitious, starting with high moral goals and significant potential.

Weaknesses: They are brought down by a fatal flaw, such as hubris or a destructive tendency, which leads to their eventual downfall.

Motivations: Tragic heroes are often motivated by the desire to create a legacy or achieve redemption, even as their flaws steer them toward tragedy.

Example: Macbeth from Macbeth exemplifies the tragic hero, driven by ambition and pride to seize power, which ultimately leads to his ruin.

Strengths: The Rebel archetype is fearless and defiant, willing to stand up against powerful forces for what they believe is right. They inspire others with their passion and determination to challenge the status quo.

Weaknesses: Rebels can be reckless, often acting without fully considering the consequences. Their focus on their cause may lead to alienating others or making impulsive decisions.

Motivations: Rebels are driven by a desire to create change, often fueled by personal experiences of injustice or oppression. They seek freedom and equality, aiming to dismantle unfair systems, not rebellion for its own sake.

Examples: Martin Luther King Jr. is a real-world Rebel, using nonviolent resistance to challenge systemic racism and inspire lasting change. Neo from The Matrix also embodies the Rebel archetype, leading the fight to free humanity from a false reality and oppressive control.

The Explorer

Strengths: The Explorer archetype is adventurous and curious, always seeking new experiences and knowledge. They are independent and resourceful, often pushing boundaries and inspiring others to embrace the unknown.

Weaknesses: Explorers can be restless and dissatisfied, constantly searching for something more. Their desire for freedom may lead them to avoid responsibilities or meaningful connections.

Motivations: Explorers are driven by a longing for discovery and self-discovery, seeking to uncover new horizons, ideas, or truths.

Example: Indiana Jones from Raiders of the Lost Ark embodies the Explorer archetype. He risks danger and ventures into the unknown in pursuit of ancient artifacts and knowledge.

Villainous Archetypes

Villainous archetypes are characters who are driven by dark motives. They use their strengths to create conflict and oppose the hero of the story.

The Evil Overlord

Strengths: The evil overlord is powerful and a strategic genius, using their intelligence and resources to dominate and control others.

Weaknesses: They often fall victim to hubris and overconfidence, underestimating their opponents or overextending their reach.

Motivations: Their main goal is absolute power and control, and they will do anything to maintain their dominance.

Example: Sauron from The Lord of the Rings embodies the evil overlord, seeking to enslave all of Middle-earth through his immense power and cunning plans.

The Corrupted

Strengths: The corrupted character is ruthless and highly adaptable, able to use any situation to their advantage.

Weaknesses: Their broken moral compass often leads them to make destructive choices that harm themselves and others.

Motivations: They are driven by revenge or self-destructive tendencies, with their actions often fueled by past trauma or bitterness.

Example: Anakin Skywalker from Star Wars represents the corrupted, turning to the dark side out of anger and loss.

The Mastermind

Strengths: The mastermind is highly intelligent and skilled at manipulation. They use their knowledge and strategies to control situations and people.

Weaknesses: Their obsession with their goals and emotional detachment can lead to isolation and blind spots in their plans.

Motivations: They are driven by creating complex schemes and achieving perfection, often pursuing their vision at any cost.

Example: Moriarty from Sherlock Holmes is a classic mastermind, using his brilliance and manipulation to orchestrate elaborate crimes and challenge his rival.

The Henchman

Strengths: The henchman is loyal and physically strong. They are often the muscle behind a villain’s plans.

Weaknesses:  They lack independent thought and blindly follow orders without questioning.

Motivations: Their actions are driven by loyalty to a greater villain or a cause they believe in. They often see themselves as part of something bigger.

Example: The Mountain from Game of Thrones is a classic henchman, using his brute strength to enforce the will of those he serves without question.

The Sympathetic Villain

Strengths: The sympathetic villain is relatable and emotionally complex – which makes their actions understandable, even if not justifiable.

Weaknesses: Their misguided actions stem from warped logic or emotions, leading them down a destructive path despite good intentions.

Motivations: They are driven by powerful emotions like love, revenge, or a personal sense of justice. The sympathetic villain believes their actions are right in their own way.

Example: Killmonger from Black Panther is a sympathetic villain who is motivated by revenge and a desire for justice for his people.

The Seducer

Strengths: The Seducer archetype is charming and charismatic, able to captivate and influence others with ease. They excel at persuasion, often turning situations to their advantage through their social skills and allure.

Weaknesses: Seducers can be manipulative and self-serving, using their charm to deceive or exploit others. Their focus on personal gain may lead to shallow relationships or mistrust.

Motivations: Seducers are driven by a desire for power, control, or admiration. They seek to influence others to achieve their goals or maintain their elevated status.

Examples: Lady Macbeth from Macbeth is a classic Seducer, using her wit and manipulation to influence her husband’s decisions for her own ambitions. Jordan Belfort from The Wolf of Wall Street also represents this archetype, using his charisma to charm clients and colleagues while building his financial empire.

The Shapeshifter

Strengths: The Shapeshifter archetype is unpredictable and intriguing, keeping the hero and audience guessing. Their ability to change loyalties or roles adds complexity and tension to the story.

Weaknesses: Shapeshifters can create confusion or mistrust, as their true intentions are often unclear. Their ambiguity may make it difficult for others to rely on them.

Motivations: Shapeshifters are driven by personal agendas or survival, adapting their behavior to suit their current needs or goals. They often thrive in ambiguity and complexity.

Example: Mystique from X-Men embodies the Shapeshifter archetype. She uses her ability to physically transform to shift between ally and adversary, leaving others uncertain of her true loyalties.

Supportive Archetypes

Supportive archetypes are characters who help the story’s hero by giving guidance, humor, or emotional support during their journey.

The Sidekick

Strengths: The sidekick is loyal and often provides comedic relief in a story. They offer unwavering support and lighten tense moments.

Weaknesses: They can be overly dependent on the hero and sometimes lack their own initiative or story arc.

Motivations: Their main drive is to support the hero’s journey and find a sense of belonging in their shared mission.

Example: Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings is an iconic sidekick, staying by Frodo’s side through every challenge and providing encouragement and strength when needed.

Strengths: Mentors are wise and experienced. They use their knowledge and wisdom to guide and prepare the hero for their journey.

Weaknesses: They often have limited involvement in the main events and may rely on outdated ideas that don’t fit the current situation.

Motivations: Their goal is to pass on their wisdom and ensure the hero is ready to shape the future.

Example: Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars is a classic mentor, teaching Luke Skywalker about the Force and helping him face his destiny.

The Love Interest

Strengths: The love interest provides an emotional connection in a story. They often have a natural charisma that draws others in.

Weaknesses: They can risk being one-dimensional if their role focuses only on romance without personal depth or development.

Motivations: Their main drive is love or partnership, and they often inspire or support the hero in their journey.

Example: Rose from Titanic is a love interest who shares a transformative connection with Jack, pushing both characters to embrace life despite the tragedy ahead.

The Comic Relief

Strengths: The comic relief adds humor and quick wit to a story. They help to ease tension and keep the story balanced with lighter moments.

Weaknesses: They are often not taken seriously and can be overlooked, even when they make important contributions.

Motivations: They aim to lighten the mood and entertain, sometimes using humor to hide their own emotions or struggles.

Example: Olaf from Frozen is a great comic relief character. His cheerful personality keeps spirits high while he helps the other characters in meaningful ways.

The Caregiver

Strengths: The caregiver is nurturing and compassionate, always putting others’ needs before their own. They enjoy offering emotional and physical support to those around them.

Weaknesses: They can become overprotective, sometimes smothering those they care for, or sacrifice too much of themselves in the process.

Motivations: Their actions are driven by a desire to protect others and provide comfort, often creating a safe haven in difficult times.

Example: Molly Weasley from Harry Potter embodies the caregiver, fiercely protecting her family while nurturing everyone with kindness and warmth.

Strengths: The Joker archetype is witty and humorous. They use their charm and humor to bring levity to serious situations. They diffuse tension and help others see the lighter side of life.

Weaknesses: Jokers can be seen as irresponsible or shallow, often avoiding serious issues or commitments. Their humor may sometimes come across as insensitive or poorly timed.

Motivations: Jokers are driven by a desire to entertain and connect with others, often using humor to build relationships or mask their own struggles.

Examples: Ferris Bueller from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a quintessential Joker, using his wit and humor to navigate life and bring joy to those around him. Alan from The Hangover also embodies the Joker, providing laughs and unexpected solutions while lightening the mood.

Strengths: The Herald archetype announces the call to adventure, sparking the hero’s journey. They bring clarity and purpose, often serving as a catalyst for change.

Weaknesses: Heralds may lack direct involvement in the story beyond delivering their message, and their presence can sometimes be fleeting or overlooked.

Motivations: Heralds are driven by a need to inform or prepare others for significant events. They set the stage for transformation and action.

Example: Hagrid from Harry Potter acts as a Herald when he delivers Harry’s letter from Hogwarts, introducing him to the magical world and setting his adventure in motion.

Archetypes Representing Groups

Archetypes representing groups focus on roles within teams or communities – highlighting leadership, belonging, and working together.

Strengths: The leader has a commanding presence and is decisive. They inspire confidence and direction in those who follow them.

Weaknesses: They can be stubborn, unwilling to adapt their plans, and may become overburdened by the weight of responsibility.

Motivations: Leaders are driven by a desire to guide others and maintain order, often prioritizing the well-being of their group or cause.

Example: Captain America from The Avengers exemplifies a leader, using his decisiveness and strong moral compass to unite his team and fight for justice.

Strengths: The rebel is defiant and inspiring. They challenge authority and motivate others to question the status quo.

Weaknesses: They can be reckless, acting without fully thinking through the consequences. This sometimes causes the rebel to alienate themselves from others in the story.

Motivations: Rebels are driven by a desire to change the system and fight for freedom, often against overwhelming odds.

Example: Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games is a powerful rebel, using her defiance against the Capitol to inspire a revolution and fight for justice.

The Outsider

Strengths: The outsider is highly observant, often noticing details others overlook. They bring an unconventional perspective to the story and they offer unique solutions and ideas.

Weaknesses: They can feel isolated and struggle with distrust, making it hard for them to form strong connections with others.

Motivations: Outsiders are driven by a desire for acceptance and understanding. They seek to find their place in a world where they don’t fully belong.

Example: Edward Scissorhands from Edward Scissorhands is a classic outsider, longing for connection and acceptance while offering a unique view of the world.

Strengths: The Ruler archetype is commanding and responsible, with a natural ability to lead and maintain order. They inspire confidence and loyalty through their decisiveness and authority.

Weaknesses: Rulers can be controlling or inflexible, sometimes focusing too much on maintaining power and structure at the expense of creativity or individual freedom.

Motivations: Rulers are driven by a desire to create stability, protect their domain, and enforce their vision of order and justice. They often prioritize the greater good over personal gain.

Example: Mufasa from The Lion King embodies the Ruler archetype. He leads with wisdom and fairness while protecting the balance of the Pride Lands.

The Survivor

Strengths:  The survivor is resilient and can endure even the toughest situations. They are also resourceful, often finding creative ways to stay alive and adapt to challenges.

Weaknesses: Survivors can become distrustful of others and emotionally hardened, making it difficult for them to form close relationships.

Motivations: Their primary drive is staying alive and overcoming impossible odds, often fueled by a refusal to give up.

Example: Ellen Ripley from Alien is a perfect survivor, using her resilience and resourcefulness to outlast a deadly alien threat and protect others.

The Guardian

Strengths:  The guardian is protective and always ready to shield others from harm. They are strong-willed, and they stand firm in their beliefs and commitments.

Weaknesses: They can be overbearing, sometimes stifling others with their need to control. Their focus on protection can also make them tunnel-visioned.

Motivations: Guardians are driven by a deep desire to defend a cause or protect someone they care about, no matter the cost.

Example: Hagrid from Harry Potter is a loyal guardian. He fiercely protects Harry and his friends while standing up for what he believes is right.

Strengths: The Orphan archetype is relatable and resilient, often displaying adaptability and perseverance in the face of challenges. Their humble beginnings make them empathetic and capable of connecting with others.

Weaknesses: Orphans may struggle with feelings of abandonment or low self-worth, which can lead to self-doubt or difficulty trusting others.

Motivations: Orphans are driven by a desire to find belonging and overcome their sense of isolation. They seek meaningful connections and a place where they truly feel at home.

Examples: Daniel LaRusso from The Karate Kid represents the Orphan. He searches for guidance and belonging while navigating a new environment and personal challenges.

The Everyman (Or “Everyperson”)

Strengths: The Everyman archetype is relatable and grounded, often serving as a bridge between the audience and the story. They bring practicality, empathy, and an approachable perspective to their role.

Weaknesses: Everyman characters can be limited by self-doubt or a lack of extraordinary abilities, which may cause them to feel overshadowed by others.

Motivations: They are driven by a desire to belong and find a connection, often seeking to make a difference despite their ordinary background.

Example: Jim Halpert from The Office is a quintessential Everyman, navigating the relatable ups and downs of office life while striving for meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose.

Mystical or Supernatural Archetypes

Mystical or supernatural archetypes are characters tied to magic, mystery, or special knowledge. They influence the story with their unique powers or insights.

The Magician

Strengths: The magician archetype is powerful, using their knowledge and skills to influence the world in extraordinary ways. They are also wise, and they understand things others cannot.

Weaknesses: They can be arrogant or overestimate their abilities. At times, they may become detached from reality as they focus too much on abstract ideas.

Motivations: Magicians are driven by a desire to understand the mysteries of the universe. They often seek deeper truths than others around them do.

Example: Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings is a classic magician. He uses his wisdom to guide others and confront the dark forces that they all face.

The Prophet

Strengths: The prophet is a visionary, able to see possibilities and outcomes that others cannot. They are also insightful and they offer deep understanding and guidance to the other characters in the story.

Weaknesses: Their visions can be misinterpreted, leading to confusion or unintended consequences. They often face isolation, as others may not understand or trust their insights.

Motivations: Prophets are driven by a need to guide others and fulfill a vision. They believe that their insights are vital to the greater good.

Example: Cassandra from Greek mythology embodies the prophet. She was gifted with foresight but cursed to have her warnings ignored, which lead to her isolation and tragedy.

The Trickster

Strengths: The trickster is clever, using their wit to outsmart others. They are also unpredictable, and they love to keep everyone guessing.

Weaknesses: They often lack foresight, focusing on immediate results rather than long-term consequences. Their love for mischief can create chaos and unintended problems.

Motivations: Tricksters are driven by a desire to disrupt the status quo and amuse themselves, often challenging authority or norms for the fun of it.

Example: Loki from Norse mythology and the Marvel universe is a classic trickster, using his cunning and unpredictability to stir up trouble while pursuing his own agenda.

The Monster

Strengths: The monster archetype is a terrifying character who instills fear in anyone who encounters them. They possess primal power, making them a nearly unstoppable force.

Weaknesses: Monsters lack humanity and are unable to relate to others. Their goals are usually limited, driven by instinct rather than strategy or ambition.

Motivations: Monsters are driven by a desire for destruction or by feeding on fear. They act on their base instincts rather than deeper emotions or plans.

Example: The xenomorph from Alien and Grendel from Beowulf are iconic monsters. Both use their primal strength and terrifying presence to strike fear into those around them.

The Redeemed

Strengths: The redeemed character has undergone significant change, often learning from their past mistakes. Their transformation brings hope and inspires others to believe in second chances.

Weaknesses: They may struggle with guilt over their past actions, which can cause self-doubt or hesitation. Trust from others can also be difficult to earn due to their history.

Motivations: The redeemed are driven by a desire to atone for their past and create a better future. They often aim to help others avoid making the same mistakes.

Example: Zuko from Avatar: The Last Airbender is a perfect example of the redeemed archetype. Once a ruthless antagonist, he transforms into a loyal ally, seeking forgiveness and fighting for what is right.

Strengths: The Sage archetype is wise and analytical, seeking knowledge and understanding. They excel at offering guidance and seeing the deeper truths in complex situations.

Weaknesses: Sages can be overly theoretical, focusing on knowledge rather than action. Their detachment may make them seem aloof or disconnected from others.

Motivations: Sages are driven by a desire to uncover truths and share their wisdom with others. They aim to bring clarity and insight to situations, often helping others navigate difficult challenges.

Example: Yoda from Star Wars is a classic Sage, using his wisdom and understanding of the Force to guide Luke Skywalker on his path to becoming a Jedi.

Archetypes Rooted in Emotions

Archetypes rooted in emotions are characters motivated by strong feelings like love, hope, or revenge. These characters help to show the complexity of human emotions.

Strengths: The lover archetype is passionate and deeply devoted, often willing to make great sacrifices for the person they care about. Their commitment inspires others.

Weaknesses: Lovers can become obsessive, focusing too much on their relationship. They may also be blind to their partner’s flaws or the consequences of their actions.

Motivations: Lovers are driven by a desire for romantic connection and emotional fulfillment. They prioritize love above all else.

Example: Romeo and Juliet from Romeo and Juliet and Noah from The Notebook embody the lover archetype. Both show unwavering devotion and passion and are willing to overcome great obstacles for love.

The Dreamer

Strengths:  The dreamer archetype is creative and full of ideas. They see possibilities that others overlook. Their idealism drives them to envision a better world or future.

Weaknesses: Dreamers can be unrealistic, focusing on their fantasies without considering practical limitations. They may also escape into their dreams to avoid dealing with reality.

Motivations: Dreamers are driven by the pursuit of their aspirations and a desire to innovate or create something meaningful.

Examples: Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables and Jay Gatsby from The Great Gatsby are iconic dreamers. Anne channels her vivid imagination to improve her life and inspire others, while Gatsby is driven by his idealistic vision of love and success.

Strengths: The cynic archetype is grounded and skeptical, and they question things that others take at face value. Their critical thinking helps them prevent naive mistakes.

Weaknesses: Cynics can have a negative outlook, focusing on problems rather than solutions. They are often resistant to change and prefer to stay in their comfort zone.

Motivations: Cynics are motivated by self-protection and a desire to challenge societal norms or ideals they perceive as unrealistic.

Examples: Dr. Gregory House from House M.D. is a classic cynic. Dr. House uses his skepticism and sharp wit to solve medical mysteries but struggles with trust and emotional connections.

The Innocent

Strengths: The Innocent archetype is optimistic and pure, always seeing the best in people and situations. This archetype is often depicted as an innocent woman, encapsulating themes of vulnerability and purity, commonly seen in the ‘Damsel in Distress’ trope. Their simplicity and moral clarity are an inspiration to those around them.

Weaknesses: Innocents can be naive, sometimes trusting too easily or failing to recognize danger. Their idealism may also make it difficult for them to navigate complex or morally gray situations.

Motivations: Innocents are driven by a desire to find happiness and spread goodness in the world. They aim to restore harmony and remind others of the importance of kindness and integrity.

Examples: Wonder Woman embodies the Innocent archetype with her unwavering belief in love, justice, and the goodness of humanity. George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life also exemplifies the Innocent, demonstrating selflessness and optimism even in the face of hardship and doubt.

The Avenger

Strengths: The Avenger archetype is intensely focused and determined, driven by a clear sense of purpose. They possess the resolve to confront challenges head-on and fight for what they believe is right.

Weaknesses: Avengers can become consumed by vengeance, losing sight of the bigger picture or their humanity. Their single-minded pursuit of justice can sometimes cause collateral damage.

Motivations: Avengers are driven by a need to right wrongs or seek revenge, often fueled by personal loss or injustice.

Examples: The Punisher from Marvel Comics and Edmond Dantès from The Count of Monte Cristo are classic Avengers. The Punisher channels his grief into a relentless fight against crime, while Dantès carefully plans his revenge on those who wronged him.

The Altruist

Strengths: The altruist archetype is generous and selfless, always putting the needs of others above their own. They have a deep sense of empathy and compassion, and they inspire those around them.

Weaknesses: Altruists can sacrifice too much of themselves, neglecting their own needs and well-being. Their selflessness may also make them vulnerable to being taken advantage of by others.

Motivations: Altruists are driven by a desire to help others and leave a positive legacy. They seek to make the world a better place through their actions.

Examples: Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird is a classic altruist character. He fights for justice and equality and puts his reputation on the line to defend an innocent man.

The Creator

Strengths: The Creator archetype is imaginative and innovative, constantly generating new ideas and solutions. They have a deep passion for bringing their visions to life, often inspiring others with their creativity.

Weaknesses: Creators can be perfectionists, sometimes struggling with self-doubt or an inability to finish their work. Their intense focus on their ideas may cause them to neglect relationships or the practicalities of life.

Motivations: Creators are driven by a desire to build or design something original and meaningful. They seek to leave a lasting impact through their artistic, technological, or cultural creations.

Examples: Steve Jobs is a real-world Creator known for his groundbreaking innovations and visionary approach to technology. Mark Zuckerberg from The Social Network also embodies this archetype, channeling his creativity and ambition to revolutionize social connection through his platform.

What are Character Archetypes?

Character archetypes are universal character blueprints that appear in stories across cultures and time. They are character templates that tap into deep human experiences and emotions.

The word “archetype” has ancient roots. It comes from Greek words meaning “original pattern” or “first type.” When writers use character archetypes, they draw from a well of storytelling that goes back thousands of years.

Psychologist Carl Jung introduced the “collective unconscious” concept – a shared mental space where these archetypal patterns live. Archetypes are deep psychological patterns that exist in all human minds. They represent core human experiences like heroism, friendship, struggle, and transformation.

Common Jungian character archetypes include the brave hero, the wise mentor, the cunning villain, and the loyal friend, which differ from stock characters that often serve minor roles and conform to clichés.

Each archetype represents a fundamental human role or experience. In other words, they are representative of universal experiences that transcend culture and time period, and are instead based on the kinds of people we each know or meet over our lifetimes.

When writers use these character archetypes, they speak a universal language of storytelling.

Definition and Origins

A character archetype is a universal pattern or image that represents a fundamental human experience or trait.

Carl Jung believed that certain universal symbols and images are shared across cultures and time, and are present in the collective unconscious. In the context of storytelling, this refers to the common patterns and characteristics that are found in characters across different stories and cultures.

Jung’s theory of the collective unconscious suggests that these character archetypes are part of our shared human experience, deeply embedded in our psyche.

They manifest in myths, dreams, and literature, providing a framework for understanding human behavior and motivations.

By tapping into these archetypal patterns, writers can develop characters that resonate on a profound level and evoke a sense of familiarity and connection in their audience.

Why Do Archetypes Matter?

Because they help writers create characters that feel real and meaningful! They provide a framework for understanding human behavior and motivations. Using character archetypes can also help you write characters who are relatable .

Now, not every character fits neatly into a single archetype. Often, the most intriguing characters are those who blend various archetypal traits. Consider archetypes as a starting point to help you begin your character development and shape your storytelling.

Why Use Character Archetypes?

Character archetypes are like cheat codes for storytelling!

They’re the classic personality templates that writers can use to create characters that readers will instantly connect with.

Why Are Archetypes So Powerful?

These patterns tap into something deep and universal about human nature. Readers see parts of themselves—or people they know—in these characters, which makes them feel real and relatable. Using archetypes helps you:

Build depth: Characters feel more complex and multi-dimensional.

Add layers: Psychological depth makes them interesting.

Hit universal themes: Archetypes echo fundamental human experiences we all share.

Archetypes help you create characters that feel fresh but also familiar enough for readers to relate to.

Archetypes Don’t Box You In

Some people worry that archetypes are too rigid or predictable.

But here’s the thing—they’re more like guidelines, not rules.

Mix and match them, tweak them, or flip them upside down. Add your unique twist, and suddenly, you’ve got a character who surprises and delights your audience.

A great example of this is Jack Sparrow from The Pirates of the Caribbean .

He embodies the qualities of the Hero, the Rebel, the Explorer, the Lover, and the Jester, among others. He’s hard to pin down to just one archetype, but that’s what makes him so memorable and unpredictable!

Mixing Character Archetypes

Characters who pull from multiple archetypes feel real because people in real life are complex, too.

Someone might seem like a Hero on the surface but carry Rebel traits underneath – or even evolve into a Sage as they learn hard lessons.

By mixing archetypes, you:

Add depth: The blend makes your character more dynamic.

Surprise readers: They won’t know what’s coming when your “Mentor” archetype suddenly reveals a Rebel streak.

Mirror real life: Human beings are full of contradictions, so your characters should be too.

How to Nail Archetype Mash-ups

Start with intention: Decide which archetypes fit your character’s core traits.

Blend thoughtfully: The combination should make sense for your story and feel organic.

Show contradictions: Let your character’s traits clash in interesting ways—like a Mentor with a hidden streak of insecurity.

Let them grow: Allow challenges to reveal new sides of your character, shifting their archetype over time.

How to Use Character Archetypes

Using character archetypes in your writing can help you create complex and relatable characters. By understanding the different archetypes and how they relate to each other, you can create characters that resonate with your audience.

Here are some tips for using character archetypes in your writing:

Tips for Creating Great Characters

Use multiple archetypes to create complex characters: For example, a character can be both a Hero and a Trickster. This blend adds depth and makes the character more dynamic.

Use archetypes to create conflict and tension: For example, a character who represents the Opponent archetype can create conflict for classical hero archetype characters .

Use archetypes to create character growth and development: For example, a character who represents the Innocent archetype can learn and grow as they navigate the challenges of the story. This evolution makes the character’s journey relatable.

Use archetypes to create a deeper understanding of your characters: By understanding the underlying motivations and desires of your characters, you can create characters that are more nuanced and relatable.

What Makes Your Characters Unforgettable?

Archetypes are a starting point, but it’s your unique spin that makes them shine.

Maybe your Hero has a dash of Rebel, or your Mentor secretly struggles with self-doubt. The possibilities are endless when you let creativity guide you.

Need help fleshing it all out? Download my Character Development Workbook and give your ideas the structure they need to thrive!

Filmmaker, Author, Actor and Story Consultant

Neil Chase is an award-winning, produced screenwriter, independent filmmaker, professional actor, and author of the horror-western novel Iron Dogs. His latest feature film is an apocalyptic thriller called Spin The Wheel.

Neil has been featured on Celtx, No Film School, Script Revolution, Raindance, The Write Practice, Lifewire, and MSN.com, and his work has won awards from Script Summit, ScreamFest, FilmQuest and Cinequest (among others).

Neil believes that all writers have the potential to create great work. His passion is helping writers find their voice and develop their skills so that they can create stories that are entertaining and meaningful. If you’re ready to take your writing to the next level, he's here to help!

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Last updated on Jul 31, 2024

12 Character Archetypes Every Writer Must Know

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Martin Cavannagh

Head of Content at Reedsy, Martin has spent over eight years helping writers turn their ambitions into reality. As a voice in the indie publishing space, he has written for a number of outlets and spoken at conferences, including the 2024 Writers Summit at the London Book Fair.

‘Character archetypes’ are something you imagine bohemian writers talking about at length — perhaps while smoking a cigarette and stroking their pointy beards. And when they move onto the topic of Jungian theory, you can see yourself tuning out of the conversation altogether. But despite their seemingly high-minded background in psychoanalysis, understanding character archetypes can help writers of all stripes gain a better understanding of storytelling.

In this post, we’ll explain to you what character archetypes are, reveal some of the most popular ones — and show you how to prevent your archetype characters from becoming clichés.

What is a character archetype?

In storytelling, an archetype is a character who represents a specific set of universal, recognizable behaviors. Carl Jung, one of the forefathers of psychoanalysis, suggested that they are part of the human collective unconscious. He believed that these recurring figures are part of the myth-making fabric that is common to all humans.

If we are to believe Jung, as well as Joseph Campbell’s theory of the Hero’s Journey — also  known as the monomyth — stories and myths are an intrinsic part of human development and evolution. They are a teaching tool, a way to warn each other of dangers and the simplest method of examining human behavior and better understanding one another.

We’re not saying that these archetypes are embedded into human DNA: they are simply the character forms that have resonated most over the generations.

If myths and fireside stories were originally ways that people had to impart knowledge to society at large, then each of Jung’s archetypes might represent a different lesson: care for your children like a mother, be brave like a hero, be wary of tricksters posing as friends, and listen to your elders.

Like the terms used in Campbell’s The Hero of a Thousand Faces , Jung’s archetypes sound somewhat biblical (animus, wise old man, devil, et al), making it harder to apply them to contemporary stories. Later in this article, we’ll feature some of our favorite archetypes, giving them names more suitable for a wider range of storytelling.

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Are archetypes the same as cliché or stock characters?

Not necessarily. Archetypal characters and stories will boil down the human experience to a relatively small number of patterns, which is perfectly fine. Human beings aren’t that unique when you think about it: we are all governed by a finite set of wants and fears.

Archetypes only become stock characters when the specifics get repetitive and predictable . A muscle-bound, sword-wielding warrior out to avenge his slain family might be interesting until you’ve seen a dozen Conan the Barbarian rip-offs. Some of the most compelling and enduring stories will adhere to archetypes while introducing enough of a twist to make a character seem fresh. Neo in The Matrix would be just another ‘chosen one’ cliche were he not a hacker who discovers that he’s been plugged into a virtual world his entire life.

If you'd like to make sure that your character  isn't  just a stock character, we recommend downloading and filling out handy tools , such as character sheets. In a later section of this post, we’ll also look at ways to subvert archetypes while also staying true to them.

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12 Common Character Archetypes

Every character archetype has a unique set of strengths, flaws, and desires which drive their stories. Some of these archetypes are seemingly gender-specific, which is perhaps a result of gender roles that span back millennia.

Here are 12 common character archetypes in fiction:

1. The Warrior

It’s the man with a plan. Armed with a particular set of skills and the sheer force of their will, the hero will conquer the enemy and carry the day. This incredibly competent character will usually suffer a crisis of confidence at their lowest ebb — which they must overcome if they are to rise once more.

Strengths: Courage, strength (physical or mental), and ability.

Weaknesses: Overconfidence, ego.

Desires: To save the day and prove their worth.

Examples: Hercules, Odysseus, Aragorn from Lord of the Rings , and any Tom Cruise character.

2. The Child

Innocence is lost and children grow up: that’s entropy, and the only way this story goes. This archetype usually follows a young or naive character who sees the world through rose-tinted glasses — until reality comes knocking. That’s not to say that they end the story as jaded husks of their former selves — but they will learn a lesson or two about the world around them.

Strengths: Optimism, enthusiasm, imagination.

Weaknesses: Naivete, physical powerlessness.

Desires: To be happy (or happier).

Examples: Scout from To Kill a Mockingbird , Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz.

3. The Orphan

The dream of being plucked from obscurity and elevated to prominence is a fantasy nearly everybody’s had at some point in their lives. That’s one of the reasons why Orphans are in such high demand as protagonists: they’ve got the most to gain from good fortune. They don’t need to be literal orphans, but in most cases, these characters are in search of a new “family.”

Strengths: Survival instinct, empathy, perseverance.

Weaknesses: Lack of confidence, willingness to please others.

Desires: To thrive and connect with others.

Examples: Harry Potter, Oliver Twist, Quasimodo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame .

4. The Creator

For this kind of character, nothing is more important than the need to make something. In many stories, a creator will be an artist of some sort — willing to sacrifice their own well-being and relationships in the pursuit of this greater abstract goal . Because of their single-minded vision, creators often pay the greatest personal price.

Strengths: Creativity, drive, the ability to execute their vision.

Weaknesses: Personal sacrifice, perfectionism, egotism.

Desires: To create something of value to cement their legacy.

Examples : Remy from Ratatouille , Alexander Hamilton from Hamilton , Dr Jekyll from Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde , Willy Wonka.

5. The Caregiver

Selflessness is the defining attribute of this character type. They might be a mother, father, wife, husband, or best friend — whoever they are, they’ll do anything to protect their child, ward, lover, or best bud. It’s quite rare for the caregiver to take center stage but such is the nature of one so selfless.

Strengths: Generosity, selflessness.

Weaknesses: Also selflessness: they are open to exploitation.

Desires: To protect and help others.

Examples: Eva in We Need to Talk About Kevin , Samwise from The Lord of the Rings , Mary Poppins.

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6. The Mentor/Sage

Our protagonist might encounter some sort of mentor character, who will prepare them for the trials ahead. Sometimes this mentor is a parent. Other times, it might be a wizard or a suburban Karate teacher. Whatever form they take, they are there to guide our hero through the unknown.

The original purpose of this archetype was probably to convince younger generations of people to listen to their older, frailer tribe-mates.

Strengths: Wisdom, experience.

Weaknesses: Caution, inability to act.

Desires: To help the hero push past their boundaries and make sense of the world.

Examples: Magwitch in Great Expectations , Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid , Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars .

7. The Joker

The fool, the clown, the jester, the hedonist, the laid-back stoner. This archetype has many faces, but if you see any character say something like, “Relax, dude” or, “Chill out,” then they’re probably the Joker in the pack. In myth, Jokers often act as a cautionary tale, warning people not to waste too much time in pursuit of pleasure. In modern culture, they’re often the comic relief.

Strengths: Joyousness, likeability.

Weaknesses: Frivolousness.

Desires: To live for today and be happy.

Examples: Timon and Pumbaa from The Lion King , Tigger from Winnie the Pooh , Stifler from American Pie .

8. The Magician

The aspiring masters of the universe. Driven by their inquisitive nature, Magicians seek enlightenment — but unlike the sages and mentors, they also want to impose their will on the world around them. These classic fantasy characters can easily impress others: even if they are not literal wizards, their abilities are beyond the comprehension of mere mortals .

Strengths: Knowledge, power.

Weaknesses: Hubris.

Desires: To create order from chaos and bend the world to their will.

Examples: Sherlock Holmes, Dr Strange, Jay Gatsby from The Great Gatsby.

9. The Ruler

Heavy hangs the head that wears the crown. Any society needs a leader, but how does that leader cope with absolute power? What will they do to maintain control and order? Do they rule with kindness and compassion or with an iron fist?

Strengths: Leadership, charisma, power.

Weaknesses: Inability to delegate, suspicion.

Desires: Control, to hold on to power.

Examples: Macbeth, Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada , Mr Burns from The Simpsons .

10. The Rebel

A rebel is mad as hell and they’re not going to take it anymore . In the face of an unjust society, they are the ones with the will to overthrow the status quo. A rebel might be a charismatic leader, but they also might work in secret. They can be a freedom fighter, or rock musician, or the girl in chemistry class with the purple highlights in her hair.

Strengths: Resourcefulness, perseverance.

Weaknesses: Small in power, status, and resources.

Desires: To change the world around them.

Examples: Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games , Ferris Bueller, Hester Prynne in The Scarlet Letter .

11. The Lover

Just like Meatloaf, this archetype will do anything for love. They might be a prince, a pauper, a pop star or Sandra from HR — whoever they are, they have love in their lives and it makes them more driven and devoted than you can imagine. The downside of this passion is that they’re often willing to sacrifice everything for the ones they love — which can be a one-way ticket to tragedy.

Strengths: Devotion, passion.

Weaknesses: Willingness to sacrifice identity, life, and liberty.

Desires: Being in a relationship.

Examples: Edward from Twilight , Romeo and Juliet.

12. The Seductress

“I’ll give you whatever you want,” is the refrain of the seductress — a character that comes in all shapes, sizes, and genders. They might offer power, sex, love, money, or influence but remember, these things always come with strings attached. If a seductress is involved, the moral of the tale is almost always, “Don’t believe anything that’s too good to be true.”

Strengths: Allure, charisma, lack of morals.

Weaknesses: The emptiness of their promises.

Desires: Control.

Examples: Mephistopheles in Faust , Delilah from Samson and Delilah , 90% of the female characters in The Odyssey .

Subverting archetypal expectations

In Christopher Brooker’s The Seven Basic Plots , the author casts his Jungian eye on the nature of storytelling and mythmaking. The basic gist is that there really aren’t that many unique stories to tell: most plots center on some form of ‘quest and return’ where the protagonist seeks something and returns ‘home’ with it.

Following on from that, it stands to reason that there are also limited character arcs a story can follow . With that in mind, how can an author make an archetype fresh?

The answer, most likely, lies in the specifics.

As the writer and humorist John Hodgman will often say , “Specificity is the soul of narrative.” Stories resonate when they are universal (enter: archetypes), but they engage people by avoiding vagueness like a virus.

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The plot of Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight is nearly identical to Romeo and Juliet . Edward and Bella belong to the same archetype as those star-crossed lovers of Verona. However, despite the vast similarities in the sequence of events of these stories , the important differences lie in the specifics: the way Meyer's characters speak, the Pacific Northwest setting, the fantastical conflict between vampires and werewolves. While the book follows a similar narrative arc as that of Romeo and Juliet , its fans certainly wouldn’t call it a predictable retread of Shakespeare’s renowned play.

For authors, character archetypes are a useful concept to understand — if only to save you from tying yourself in knots, trying to create stories and characters completely unlike anything that’s come before. Every story has already been told, so focus on what matters most to readers: creating rich, specific worlds populated by people living specific lives, whose struggles are so grounded in realistic human behavior that their stories become universal — no matter where the reader is from.

What other character archetypes have we missed from this list? Drop them in the comments below along with your favorite example!

10 responses

Lucrezia says:

13/08/2018 – 13:53

Some numbers. There are 12 archetypes, for a total of 37 examples. Of these examples, only 10 are women (about 28%). Only 6 of the 12 archetypes have at least a female example (50%), with a concentration on child, caregiver (surprise), seductress (even more surprise) and rebel (that was actually unexpected). On the other side, there is only 1 archetype without a male example, out of 12. Of course the more "authoritative" archetypes - warrior, mentor, creator, magician - are a boy only preserve. I do not mean this as a critique to the author of the post, more as general observation about how skewed literature or movies, even pretty contemporary ones, can be.

↪️ Al McDowall replied:

27/10/2018 – 09:43

"...more as general observation about how skewed literature or movies, even pretty contemporary ones, can be." Sadly, I think it's more an observation on the effect that skewing can have on our perceptions. It's a good point to bring up, I'm glad you clarified your motivation as well (though some people will still react negatively). We ALL have a long way to go and a lot of work to do!

↪️ Tessa replied:

10/11/2018 – 21:48

That's what I'm struggling with in interpreting the article. Interestingly enough, one of the things that characterizes a rebel archetype is their lower status; This makes the fact that the only woman example that doesn't fall into stereotypical gender roles stand out as an overwhelming example of how women do have a long history of being basically denied roles of power, unless of course, they act like a man to do so. I'm reading this article for completely different reasons than most people here who are likely authors; I think it would be wise for authors to consider creating female roles for the archetypes typically seen as being oriented towards males. This is honestly what the world is desiring... And why movies like Wonder Woman are such a success!

↪️ Samantha replied:

23/02/2019 – 22:46

You should see 16 archetypes explained by studiobinder; it's nauseating. They actually separate them as male and female oriented.

↪️ Bob replied:

24/09/2019 – 13:40

The care giver is a male from the lord of the rings

shantkiraz says:

08/05/2019 – 12:28

How is the "Ruler" different than the "Leader" from this article? https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/character-archetypes/

↪️ Reedsy replied:

08/05/2019 – 12:29

It's all about power, I guess. The ruler will struggle to maintain power, while a leader will usually inspire from the ranks — and will often start from a lower position of status than a ruler.

↪️ Neko replied:

09/07/2019 – 01:55

Rulers have a lot of power such as a king(eg. King Arthur) whereas a leader can be anyone as long as they give orders and assist those that he leads(eg. Robin Hood)

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Macbeth — Characters and Archetypes in Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Characters and Archetypes in Shakespeare's Macbeth

• Categories: Archetype Character Macbeth

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Published: Jun 13, 2024

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Introduction, body 1: macbeth and the tragic hero archetype, body 2: lady macbeth, the weird sisters, and other archetypes.

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Crafting memorable and complex characters is a vital aspect of storytelling. One effective technique that writers can utilize is the use of character archetypes. These archetypes represent recurring patterns and universal roles in storytelling, providing a strong foundation for creating dynamic and relatable fictional characters .

Table of Contents: • 12 Character Archetypes    The hero    The villain    The mentor    The trickster    The guardian    The herald    The shape-shifter    The sidekick    The love interest    The underdog    The femme fatale    The jester • How to use archetypes to develop characters • Are your characters ready to meet your readers?

12 Character Archetypes

Within the realm of character archetypes, twelve significant roles emerge, each carrying distinct characteristics and motivations. These archetypes serve as building blocks for engaging narratives, shaping a story’s progression, and capturing readers’ attention.

Let’s dive into these character archetypes and uncover their storytelling potential.

The hero embodies personality traits such as courage, resilience, and a strong sense of morality. These characters experience an inciting incident and then embark on transformative journeys, overcoming obstacles and facing conflicts to achieve their goals. Think of iconic heroes like Luke Skywalker from Star Wars , Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games , or Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings . The hero archetype inspires readers through their determination and ability to rise above challenges.

The villain

Opposing the hero, the villain embodies evil, cunning, and opposition. Villains create conflicts and obstacles that the hero must overcome, adding depth and tension to the story. Iconic villains like Darth Vader from Star Wars , the manipulative Moriarty from Sherlock Holmes , or the unpredictable Joker from the Batman series demonstrate the compelling nature of the villain archetype.

The mentor serves as a wise and experienced guide who provides wisdom and support to the main character. Mentors empower the hero by sharing their knowledge and helping them navigate challenges. Characters such as Obi Wan Kenobi from Star Wars or Dumbledore from the Harry Potter series exemplify the mentor character archetype, shaping the hero’s growth and offering crucial insights.

The trickster

The trickster has a personality type that injects humor, unpredictability, and mischief into a narrative. These characters challenge conventions, question authority, and provide comic relief. The mischievous Robin Hood or the cunning Loki from Norse mythology and Marvel comics are examples of trickster archetypes. They bring a sense of excitement and unpredictability.

The guardian

The guardian offers support, protection, and loyalty to the hero. Guardians often serve as sidekicks, allies, or mentors to the protagonist. Characters like Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings , the loyal droids R2-D2 and C-3PO from Star Wars , or the trustworthy Hagrid from Harry Potter embody the guardian character archetype, providing vital assistance and guidance.

The herald acts as a catalyst, introducing change and setting the hero’s journey in motion. They bring important news, prophecies, or challenges that allow the protagonist to learn more as they propel into their adventure. Examples of Heralds include the White Rabbit from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings . The Herald archetype initiates the hero’s quest and sets the narrative in motion.

The shape-shifter

The shape-shifter archetype adds complexity and intrigue to the story by embodying duality and ambiguity. These characters blur the lines between ally and enemy, keeping readers guessing about their true intentions. Shape-shifters challenge the hero’s trust and perception, adding tension and suspense. Think Severus Snape from Harry Potter or Gollum from The Lord of the Rings .

The sidekick

The love interest

The love interest adds a romantic element to a story, providing emotional depth and motivation for the hero. They can be the driving force behind the hero’s actions, offering love, support, and a reason to fight. Examples include iconic literary couples like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice or star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet.

The underdog

The underdog is a character who faces overwhelming odds and adversity. They start with disadvantages but possess resilience, determination, and the ability to defy expectations. Underdogs resonate with readers as they root for the character to triumph against any opponent or obstacle — whatever the odds. Notable underdogs include Rocky Balboa and Harry Potter.

The femme fatale

The femme fatale is a seductive and mysterious character who uses her allure to manipulate and deceive others. She possesses intelligence, charm, and a hidden agenda. Femme Fatales often introduce intrigue and danger into the story, captivating both the protagonist and readers.

The jester brings humor and levity to the story. They use wit, satire, and comedic antics to entertain and lighten the mood. Jesters often serve as a source of comic relief , providing respite from the intensity of the plot. George Weasley from Harry Potter, Puck from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream , and the Cheshire Cat from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland are shining examples of the jester character archetype.

How to use archetypes to develop characters

Utilizing character archetypes effectively is key to creating compelling characters and bringing multiple perspectives to your narrative. As a writer, you still need to explore your characters to draw out their nuances and add depth. Remember to:

• Identify core traits and motivations. Analyze each character’s defining traits and motivations and align them with an archetype. Focus on consistency and and their backstory to identify what drives their actions and decisions.
• Explore dynamics and interactions. Consider how different archetypes interact with one another. The hero’s character development may be influenced by the trickster’s antics or shaped by the mentor’s guidance. These dynamics add complexity and depth to your character relationships.
• Delve into internal conflicts. Archetypes have their shadow sides, exposing flaws, insecurities, and internal conflicts. Dive into these darker aspects to create internal struggles for your characters, enhancing their depth and realism.
• Combine archetypes for uniqueness. Don’t limit your characters to a single archetype. Experiment with blending multiple archetypes to create unique and multidimensional individuals.

Are your characters ready to meet your readers?

Do you have your characters assembled and the story complete? Call a BookBaby publishing specialist at 877-961-6878 or visit www.bookbaby.com and let’s get your book published!

Related Posts 10 Top Romance Tropes Readers Love What is an Antihero? What Makes a Great Villain? Comedy Or Not, Your Story Needs a Good Straight Man How to Achieve Great Character Development in Your Story

Yeah, I’ve been writing for years, and I’ve never studied “archetypes”. Creating compelling characters comes from your own imagination and experiences. It really isn’t as deep as you’re trying to make it out to be. Just write!

so real for this bro.

Thank you for helping define character types and great ideas to mold characters. Great ideas to help flesh out what you need.

Femme Fatale–Milady de Winter from The Three Musketeers .

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