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