IDENTIFYING ARCHETYPES AND CHARACTERS IN LITERATURE
Feb 15, 2016
IDENTIFYING ARCHETYPES AND CHARACTERS IN LITERATURE
OBJECTIVES Understand the concept of archetypes
Learn to recognize types of characters and the role they play while reading a given text – character types exist besides the protagonist and antagonist
Apply this knowledge to enhance the effectiveness of your writing
WHAT ARE ARCHETYPESar-che-type- Noun
1. The original pattern or model from which all things of the same kind are copied or on which they are based; a model or first form; prototype
2. (in Jungian psychology) a collectively inherited unconscious idea, patter of though, image, etc., universally present in individual psyches
WHAT ARE ARCHETYPESThe HeroThink of the classic hero and qualities of a hero The main character leaves his or her community to go
on an adventure, performing deeds that bring honor to the community
The Villain/Monster An antagonist, especially in opposition
to the hero
The Sidekick Provides a service, symbolically
speaking, to a personality that often has a stronger nature or a role in life that carries more authority
The Underdog Characters who are always
in the wrong place at the wrong time, but who
usually win something of value in the end
WHAT ARE ARCHETYPES
TYPES OF CHARACTERS IN LITERATUREFlat Character Embodies one or two qualities, ideas, or traits that can
be readily described in a brief summary They are not psychologically complex characters and
therefore are readily accessible to readers Some flat characters are recognized as stock characters
– they embody stereotypes such as the "dumb blonde" or the "mean stepfather" o They become types rather than individuals
TYPES OF CHARACTERS IN LITERATURERound Character Complex than flat characters, and often display the
inconsistencies and internal conflicts found in most real people
They are more fully developed, and therefore are harder to summarize
TYPES OF CHARACTERS IN LITERATUREDynamic Character Undergoes some kind of change because of the action in
the plot
Static Character Does not change throughout the work, and the reader’s
knowledge of that character does not grow
TYPES OF CHARACTERS IN LITERATUREConfidant Character Someone in whom the central character confides, thus
revealing the main character’s personality, thoughts and intentions (does not need to be a person)
Foil Character A character that is used to enhance another character
through contrast