Movie archetypes examples
8 Character Archetypes — Examples in Literature & Movies
Looking to brainstorm new characters? Perhaps, you want to flesh out existing characters or pair them against another character to maximize drama and develop deeper character arcs. Writing a compelling character is easier said than done. However, it’s helpful to consider tried-and-true character archetypes to ensure every character behaves in a way that is unique, consistent, and believable. In this post, we’ll identify the various character archetypes that you can use to enhance your own characters. Plus, we’ll include plenty of iconic character archetype examples from your favorite movies and TV shows. Lastly, we’ll define which character archetypes can be paired to maximize either harmony …or conflict. Let’s get started.
- What is a Character Archetype?
- Character Archetypes
- Archetype Examples
Character archetypes are great building blocks for your stories.
You don’t want to make your characters too one dimensional, but understanding why people seem to gravitate to a particular set of character traits will help you analyze human behavior.
Which leads to crafting better characters in your scripts. But what exactly does archetype mean?
ARCHETYPE DEFINITIONWhat is an archetype?An archetype is a consistent and typical version of a particular thing. It can be a human, an object, or a particular set of behaviors, but the point is that it fits into a time-tested mold that embodies a pure form.
A character archetype is the core traits, values, and decision making patterns of a particular type of person.
What does a character archetype do?- Allows for a variety of different characters
- Solidifies the values for a particular character
- Establishes a unique skill set for the character
It’s important to understand that there is a difference between a story archetype and a character archetype.
You can take classic archetypical characters and place them into a narrative chain of events that plays against the associated story archetype.
A quarterback who needs to get to the playoffs is old hat, but a quarterback who is thrown into a murder investigation and gambling plot is relatively fresh. This is how the filmmakers behind The Last Boy Scout handled their archetypical characters.
Archetypical Characters in The Last Boy Scout
In fact, this is one of the best ways to make sure that your story is a bit more fresh and a bit less tired and derivative.
Why do character archetypes exist?
Human beings tend to find their place within a group dynamic based around their strongest personality traits.
You may have a group of friends with similar interests but often one will be the “social butterfly” while another will be the "homebody."
Your friends will begin to identify each other by these consistent traits.
You’ve now defined yourself by a character archetype.
When writing your own scripts, you may have a desire to use a character archetype for your hero, or for your villain.
Other times you may want to build an ensemble with many archetypes.
Here is a scene below that feature multiple character archetypes:
Archetypical Characters in Inception • Read Entire Scene
It’s also important to note that, not every character fits into a tiny little box.
We all have a certain percentage of different character traits. Which of them dominates the majority of our personality? Which traits manifest less often?
Take Michael Scott from The Office:
Character Archetype Examples • Michael Scott
Michael could be considered a leader, or perhaps a wildcard. Most characters will show signs of multiple character archetypes, but there is still a way to make a sound determination.
The simplest way is through the process of elimination.
Indiana Jones, for example, fits into three different character archetypes, but when you go through the process of stripping them away one at a time, what do you get? Would you still have Indiana Jones?
Indiana Jones Embodies Multiple Character Archetypes
Eventually, you’ll learn that there is a dominant character archetype that best exemplifies each particular character.
There are situation like Game of Thrones where a character may begin a seducer, but then walks the path of redemption to the warrior, like Jamie Lannister.
These particular archetypical characters can be applied to heroes, but they can also serve as character archetypes for villains.
Often, the same character traits can be used for different reasons…
You can use your charm for good, or far evil.
Also, many characters (especially in comedy) will attempt to fit into a character archetype that seems the appropriate for their personality...
But they really only possess the negative traits associated with the type.
Often, these characters fall into the unlisted character archetype:
The Fool.
This is true with shows like Veep, where the leader is a poor leader, the rebel is a poor rebel, and the caregiver can’t seem to get anything right.
Season 6 Recap |
VeepYou don’t forfeit the label just because a character consistently fails to live up to the positive traits for particular archetypical characters.
Another important thing to keep in mind is how the archetypical characters on this list interact with one another. We’ve divided this into categories:
- Allies
- Enemies
Now, this doesn’t mean that you can’t have incompatible archetypes on the same team or vice versa, because that will often lead to logical conflict. While this is great for storytelling, certain personality types have a much easier time connecting with others.
Some will have more harmonious interactions while others will have more chaotic interactions.
Like in this scene from The Avengers.
The Avengers at their low
They all share anger at the moment, but each of them show it in their own way. Don't shy away from these interactions in your stories.
CHARACTER ARCHETYPES LIST1. The LeaderOur first character archetype is The Leader.
Commonly, this character archetype is forceful, a person of action. They’re confident, motivated, and brave.
Which is beneficial for staying active and building story momentum but they can often be arrogant and domineering. This is great for generating a lot of natural conflict.
Here's a video breaking down how to create a dynamic Leader in your story:
Archetypal Characters — The Leader • Subscribe on YouTube
The Leader — Allies- The Warrior
- The Caregiver
Leaders want to be surrounded by team players, and more often than not the team players are those who care about rules and standards.
That normally translates into strong, reliable relationships with both the strong will of a warrior, and the responsible approach of the caregiver.
The Leader — Enemies- The Rebel
- The Wildcard
The leader has a plan, and wants to stick to that plan.
Naturally, anyone who seems to throw caution to the wind or rely heavily on improvisation will get under the skin of any leader.
A true leader knows that they are responsible for more than their own skin, so anyone who is a cavalier will inevitably gum up the works.
The Leader — Common Professions- King/Queen
- President
- CEO
- Quarterback
- General
- Gandalf — Lord of the Rings
- Selina Meyer — Veep
- Jack Aubrey — Master & Commander
Our next character archetype is The Caregiver.
Commonly, this character archetype prioritizes the needs of others. They want to make the world right. They’re kind, generous, and supportive.
They will often have meaningful conversations with your protagonist.
But they can often be meek, vulnerable and an easy target for a villain to capture or manipulate.
Archetypal Characters — The Caregiver Archetype • Subscribe on YouTube
The Caregiver — Allies- The Leader
- The Professor
The caregiver will often connect with those who have a lot of responsibility or a lot of weight on their shoulders.
They will connect with a professor often because they are willing to overlook negative traits and cast them aside as “necessary evils.”
The Caregiver — Enemies- The Seducer
- The Wildcard
The main thing a caregiver can’t abide is when characters take advantage of others. This means the seducer is automatically a problem area.
The caregiver will stomach a rebel under the right circumstances, but if they do not enjoy the antics of a wildcard.
The Caregiver — Common Professions- Therapist
- Teacher
- Doctor/Nurse
- Nanny
- John Watson — Sherlock
- Sam Wise — Lord of the Rings
- Gary Walsh — Veep
- Dr. Stephen Maturin — Master & Commander
Our next character archetype is The Seducer.
Commonly, this character archetype is charming, a person of charisma. They’re confident, persuasive, and sly.
Often debonair, they’re provocative and mysterious but they can often be manipulative and a bit jaded.
For a quick example, look no further than Han Solo.
Archetypal Characters — The Seducer • Han Solo
The Seducer — Allies- The Rebel
- The Castaway
Often the seducer will get along with others who look out for their own neck, but also for those who have a vulnerability to be manipulated.
Seducers need someone impressionable and that is where the castaway can be a powerful unwitting agent on behalf of the seducer.
The Seducer — Enemies- The Leader
- The Professor
Often, a leader and a professor can see right through the seducer. They won’t trust one, and know the seducer will take the shortcut if available.
The Seducer — Common Professions- Spy
- Lawyer
- Salesman
- Gambler
- Detective
- Thief
- Eames — Inception
- Jack Vincennes — L.
A. Confidential - Dan Egan — Veep
Our next character archetype is The Castaway.
Commonly, this character archetype is observant from a safe distance, a bit of a loner. They’re devoted, loyal, and introspective. But they can often be gullible and emotional.
Consider Brian, the brain, from a film populated with archetypical characters — The Breakfast Club.
Archetypal Characters — The Castaway • Brian the Brain
The Castaway — Allies- The Leader
- The Wildcard
The Castaway is looking to be inspired, and because of this they often find themselves with a headstrong leader or a rather fluid Wildcard.
Anything else is just too “middle of the road,” and will reinforce the idea that things are cemented and have no room for change on the surface.
The Castaway — Enemies- The Professor
- The Warrior
Both the Professor and the Warrior will look at the Castaway and see someone who is a bit parasitic.
The Castaway is too weak in their eyes.
- Office Worker
- Driver
- Gardener
- Artist
- Cook
- Frodo — Lord of the Rings
- Amy Brookheimer — Veep
Our next character archetype is The Rebel.
Commonly, these archetypal characters are energetic and individualistic, a thrill seeker. They’re street-smart, capable, and brave.
But they can often be cynical and quick tempered.
Think of how Tyler Durden in Fight Club brought an entirely new perspective to the Narrator's world.
Tyler Durden — The Archetypical Rebel
The Rebel — Allies- The Seducer
- The Castaway
The Rebel is generally interested in self-preservation and bending the rules to get what they want.
The Seducer has skills useful to the rebel.
The Castaway is open minded and just cynical enough to attract the good will of a Rebel, and they share a penchant for questioning the status quo.
The Rebel — Enemies- The Leader
- The Professor
The Rebel will see these two as old guard, and unwilling to redefine methods and approaches toward goals.
A Rebel is often much more guess and check, whereas a Professor is more scientific, and the Leader more loyal to institutions.
The Rebel — Common Professions- Criminal
- Fighter Pilot
- Adventurer
- Spy
- Cowboy
- Mercenary
- Mechanic
- Reiben — Saving Private Ryan
- Maverick — Top Gun
- Will Hunting — Good Will Hunting
- Jonah Ryan — Veep
The WildcardOur next character archetype is The Wildcard.
Commonly, this character archetype is unpredictable, a person of improvisation. They’re often brutally honest, humorous, and creative.
But they can often be sarcastic, impulsive, and meddlesome.
Despite his loyal friendship, Walter in The Big Lebowski could be a Wildcard in any scene at any time.
Writing archetypes like Walter must be a blast
The Wildcard — Allies- The Warrior
- The Castaway
The Wildcard pairs well with a Warrior because they both are all about the action, and they often needs one another’s skill set.
The Castaway and Wildcard have some common traits, one of which is their tendency to be more impulsive and fluid.
The Wildcard — Enemies- The Leader
- The Professor
The Wildcard is all about doing what they want when they feel like it and everything is based around instinct.
This is tough on a Leader.
It is also tough on a Professor who does so much research that someone who lives unprepared can seem ludicrous.
The Wildcard — Common Professions- Blue collar
- Artists
- Beautician
- Freelancer
- Vagabond
- Gypsy
- Traveler
- Walter — The Big Lebowski
- Mike McLintock — Veep
- Charlie Kelly — It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
- Doc Holliday — Tombstone
Our next character archetype is The Professor.
Commonly, this character archetype is literal, droll, and very often a genius. They’re logical, problem solving, and candid.
But they can often be socially oblivious and rigid.
Spock from Star Trek just might be the perfect archetype example.
He prioritizes logic above all but what makes this character even more interesting is his half human side that is constant conflict.
Spock • Archetype Examples
The Professor — Allies- The Caregiver
- The Leader
The Professor is often a flawed social being, and that often translates into a Caregiver being the only person with the patience to stand them.
The Leader is often someone who takes their work seriously, which will earn the respect of a Professor more than almost anything else.
The Professor — Enemies- The Seducer
- The Wildcard
The Professor will get tired of the smooth antics of a Seducer, and the unpredictable actions of a Wildcard. Everything a Professor does is thought out, so a Wildcard may get in their way too much.
The Professor — Common Professions- Instructor
- Detective
- Economist
- Engineer
- Pathologist
- Sherlock Holmes — Sherlock
- Greg House — House
- Kent Davidson — Veep
The WarriorOur next character archetype is The Warrior.
Commonly, this character archetype is courageous, self-sacrificing, a person of honor. They’re strong willed, involved, and have a code.
But they can often be stubborn and obsessive — just like Sarah Connor in The Terminator franchise.
Sarah Connor — The Archetypical Warrior
The Warrior — Allies- The Leader
- The Professor
A warrior needs something to fight for, and often that can be a leader rather than a cause. Warriors are driven by honor and by a code, which means they respect those with a code of their own like a professor.
The Warrior — Enemies- The Caregiver
- The Castaway
Generally, the warrior will see a nurturing soul or a searching soul and see their traits as a complete waste of time. The caregiver is too worried about consequences while the castaway is too lethargic for a warrior.
- Soldier
- Police Officer
- Fire Fighter
- Lawyer
- Journalist
- Missionary
- Aragorn — Lord of the Rings
- Ryan — Saving Private Ryan
- Bud White — L.A. Confidential
- Ben Cafferty — Veep
While character archetypes are meant to interact with one another, each and everyone of them can be used as a main protagonist.
Just because the Leader has many of the classic traits associated with a main protagonist, that doesn’t mean the Castaway cannot be the main protagonist for their own story.
However, when your story features a group, squad, or team you will often build that team based on their unique character traits.
When behind enemy lines, your commando team needs a green beret, marine, driver, sapper, sniper, and a spy.
These are specialities that make-up a winning team, because you need a different skill set for each problem you encounter.
These skill sets (like professions) will often connect to certain archetypes.
Let’s take a look at a few examples of movies and series that used the ensemble cast and how they went about applying character archetypes.
Character Archetypes | Game of ThronesLet’s take a look at the archetype examples in Game of Thrones.
Game of Thrones Season 5 Recap
Cersei/Daenerys — The Leader
Samwell/Jorah — The Caregiver
Jamie/Euron — The Seducer
Tyrion/Sansa — The Castaway
Bronn/Arya — The Rebel
The Hound — The Wildcard
Davos/Varys — The Professor
Jon Snow/Brienne — The Warrior
Character Archetypes | The AvengersLet’s take a look at the archetype examples in Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War.
Archetypal Roles in Infinity War • Subscribe on YouTube
Captain America/Black Panther — The Leader
Scarlet Witch/War Machine — The Caregiver
Ironman — The Seducer
Hulk/Gamora — The Castaway
Thor/Loki — The Rebel
Starlord/Spiderman — The Wildcard
Doctor Strange/Vision — The Professor
Black Widow/Thanos — The Warrior
Character Archetypes | InceptionLet’s take a look at the archetypical characters in Inception.
Different Archetypes in Inception
Cobb — The Leader
Ariadne — The Caregiver
Eames — The Seducer
Fischer — The Castaway
Saito — The Rebel
Mal — The Wildcard
Yusuf — The Professor
Arthur — The Warrior
Character Archetypes | Saving Private RyanLet’s take a look at the archetype examples in Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan.
Machine Gun Nest |
Saving Private RyanMiller — The Leader
Horvath — The Caregiver
Mellish — The Seducer
Upham — The Castaway
Reiben — The Rebel
Jackson — The Wildcard
Wade — The Professor
Ryan — The Warrior
Character Archetypes |Ocean’s Eleven
Let’s take a look at the archetype examples in Soderbergh’s Ocean’s Eleven.
Build a Crew |
Ocean’s ElevenDanny Ocean — The Leader
Rusty Ryan — The Caregiver
Frank Catton/Saul Bloom — The Seducer
Linus Caldwell — The Castaway
Basher Tarr — The Rebel
Virgil/Turk Malloy — The Wildcard
Reuben Tishkoff/Livingston Dell — The Professor
Yen — The Warrior
Up NextHow to Write Better DialogueYou've written a pretty good script, but you know it could be great. Could better dialogue be that missing piece? Want screenwriting tips that will help you write better dialogue? How about examples from movies and TV to go with each category? Check out this post below!
Up Next: Writing better dialogue →
These 12 Character Archetypes Are Key Ingredients in All Great Stories
Character archetypes are the start point for creating the people we love, hate, learn from, and never forget in television and Movies.
I don't know about you, but when it comes time to develop characters, I get a little stressed out. To truly know your character, you need to be able to answer lots of questions about them. It's not just backstory, but also their strengths, weaknesses, and what motivates them within the story.
The answers to these questions can be complex. But luckily there are lots of tools and models you can use to base your characters on. We call these models "archetypes."
Today we're going to go over the twelve character archetypes and show you how they can inform the creation of your characters. We'll also give you examples of character archetypes in modern film and television.
So let's dive into character!
Table of Contents
The 12 Character Archetypes (with examples)
1. The Warrior
Strengths of the Warrior
Weaknesses of the Warrior
The Warrior's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
2.
The Child
Strengths of the Child
Weaknesses of the Child
The Child's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
3. The Orphan
Strengths of the Orphan
Weaknesses of the Orphan
The Orphan's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
4. The Creator
Strengths of the Creator
Weaknesses of the Creator
The Creator's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
5. The Caregiver
Strengths of the Caregiver
Weaknesses of the Caregiver
The Caregiver's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
6. The Mentor
Strengths of the Mentor
Weaknesses of the Mentor
The Mentor's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
7. The Joker
Strengths of the Joker
Weaknesses of the Joker
The Joker's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
8. The Magician
Strengths of the Magician
Weaknesses of the Magician
The Magician's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
9.
The Ruler
Strengths of the Ruler
Weaknesses of the Ruler
The Ruler's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
10. The Rebel
Strengths of the Rebel
Weaknesses of the Rebel
The Rebel's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
11. The Lover
Strengths of the Lover
Weaknesses of the Lover
The Lover's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
12. The Seducer
Strengths of the Seducer
Weaknesses of the Seducer
The Seducer's Motivation:
Character archetype examples:
Character Archetype Mash-ups
What's Next? Develop Your Character's Arc!
Where do Character Archetypes come from?
You’ve written some great character descriptions and great character names, but how do you develop a great character? We place a lot of stock in things like Joseph Campbell and Carl Jung.
Theorists who broke down humanity and story throughout history. According to Wikipedia, Jungian character archetypes refer to "unclear underlying forms or the archetypes-as-such from which emerge images and motifs such as the mother, the child, the trickster, and the flood among others. History, culture and personal context shape these manifest representations thereby giving them their specific content."
I think to think of them as the blank forms we imbue with the ideas we have about characters and characterization.
Basically, they're broad-stroke headings that refer to the kinds of characters in stories or screenplays. I love using these molds to help me learn about expected outcomes or tropes. But also I like to lean into certain qualities presented to format parts of the story I'm working on telling. I think they are useful tools to help inspire and breath life into the people on your pages.
There are 12 character archetypes in Carl Jung's world.
Let's go over each of them and learn how these molds can help you format your story and character's journey.
1. The Warrior
Better with a sword and a speech, the warrior is usually the person with the plan. A traditional hero in every sense of the word, they're there to rally the troops and take them into battle. Or to rob a casino. Or out of Egypt. Or across No Man's Land to save troops on the other side.
Strengths of the Warrior
- Physical and/or mental prowess
- Confident
- Collected
- Ready for anything.
Weaknesses of the Warrior
- Egotistical
- Underestimates opponents
- Can be overconfident
The Warrior's
Motivation:Someone has to save the day. Why not me?
Character archetype examples:
- Captain America
- Wonder Woman
- Danny Ocean
- Shaft
2.
The Child Ever think the world was one way and then get a dose of harsh reality? That's the story of the Child. They're young, naive, and need to learn the hard way.
Strengths of the Child
- Imaginative
- Trusting
- Hopeful
Weaknesses of the Child
- Weak in physicality or power
- Naive to the world
- Easily taken advantage of
The Child's Motivation:
To learn, obtain happiness, and to find truth
Character archetype examples:
- Gordie from Stand by Me
- Scout from To Kill A Mockingbird
- Alice from Alice in Wonderland
'Alice in Wonderland' (2010)Credit: IMDB
3. The Orphan
The orphan has no idea their worth until someone shows up and tells them.
They're usually anointed as the savior or protagonist of the story. They live a normal life until their circumstances thrust them into the spotlight.
Strengths of the Orphan
- They're the chosen one, so they command respect
- They're survivors
- They have empathy for the commoners
Weaknesses of the Orphan
- They're driven by what others think of them
- No self-confidence
- Too eager to please
The Orphan's Motivation:
They want to be accepted and to connect with other people. they want to be understood.
Character archetype examples:
- Harry Potter
- Luke Skywalker
- Frodo
4. The Creator
What's it like to create something from nothing? This character needs to create something palpable or tangible in their world.
They'll make any sacrifice necessary to achieve something grander than the world they have now.
Strengths of the Creator
- Inexhaustible drive
- Creative genius
- Vision
Weaknesses of the Creator
- Inability to communicate a vision
- Alienating perfectionism
- Work above everyone else
The Creator's Motivation:
The lasting impression of whatever they build. Legacy above all else.
Character archetype examples:
- Willy Wonka
- Daniel Plainview
- Carl Casper from Chef
5. The Caregiver
Selfless acts are rare in real life and even rarer in film and television. The caregiver character archetype lives their entire journey trying to help others at all costs.
They care about friends, family, or all of the above more than anything else. You can rely on them.
Strengths of the Caregiver
- Big heart
- Selfless acts
- Generous
Weaknesses of the Caregiver
- Easily deceived
- One track mind
- Value other's survival over their own
The Caregiver's Motivation:
Protect those they love at all costs. They live to serve.
Character archetype examples:
- Samwise Gamgee
- Mrs. Weasley
- Beverly Goldberg
Wendi McLendon-Covey as Beverly Goldberg in 'The Goldbergs'Credit: IMDB
6. The Mentor
We've said this before, it's hard to succeed in Hollywood without a mentor. The same goes for archetypes. Mentors or sages are wise teachers.
They can have magic or logic or both.
Strengths of the Mentor
- Wisdom about the world
- Calming presence
- Great listener
Weaknesses of the Mentor
- Inability to solve their own problems
- Predictions can go wrong
- Learned from dark mistakes
The Mentor's Motivation:
To teach the next generation to pick up the gauntlet.
Character archetype examples:
- Mr. Miyagi
- John Keating from Dead Poets Society
- Albus Dumbledore
- Mary Poppins
Video is no longer available: www.youtube.com/watch?v=j64SctPKmqk
7. The Joker
This is the class clown or the stoner. The person just trying to get by in life and comic relief. They can be a cautionary tale or just there for the laughs.
Strengths of the Joker
- Everyone likes them
- They're fun to be around
- Can have a deep soul
Weaknesses of the Joker
- Unreliable in times of need
- Usually in it for themselves
- A constant distraction
The Joker's Motivation:
What will make my life easier and what will make me happy?
Character archetype examples:
- Spicoli from Fast Times at Ridgemont High
- Timon and Pumba
- Megan from Bridesmaids
8. The Magician
The search for enlightenment can take some people a lifetime. The difference between this person and the mentor is that the Magician has an agenda they want everyone to follow.
Strengths of the Magician
- Knowledge
- Strategy
- Historical understanding
Weaknesses of the Magician
- Hubris
- Anger if they don't get their way
- Sometimes war-like
The Magician's Motivation:
They want power and organization.
they see chaos in the world and know how to solve the puzzle.
Character archetype examples:
- Thanos
- Sherlock Holmes
- Saruman in Lord of the Rings
9. The Ruler
Take me to your leader. This king or queen runs the country or corporation. They're the person you follow and the one who gives the orders. Hopefully, they're good at it.
Strengths of the Ruler
- Power
- Communication
- Leadership skills
Weaknesses of the Ruler
- Control at all costs
- Paranoia at plots against them
The Ruler's Motivation:
Keep the peace and keep order in society by maintaining their power and getting more power.
Character archetype examples:
- Cersei Lannister
- Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada
- King Arthur
Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister in 'Game of Thrones'Credit: HBO
10.
The Rebel Life's not fair, and the rebel is sick of it. They won't settle for the average day, not when they think they deserve more. Rebels like people but that doesn't mean they're the first choice to lead. Still, people follow someone who wants to shake the world up.
Strengths of the Rebel
- Never give up
- Can inspire the masses
- Know how to get a lot out of a little
Weaknesses of the Rebel
- Frequently low on the totem pole
- Has to earn what they get the hard way
- They have no power and no clear way forward
The Rebel's Motivation:
The world sucks, so let's change it.
Character archetype examples:
- Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games
- Ferris Beuller
- Phoebe from Friends
Video is no longer available: www.
youtube.com/watch?v=A8CjGHXf_jY
11. The Lover
Love will keep us together and keep the Lover going. They lead with their heart, which they wear on their sleeve. They're selfless, and even though fully devoted to the one they adore, can sometimes neglect their own health and safety.
Strengths of the Lover
- Devoted to another
- Passionate about the object of their affection
- Open with their feelings
Weaknesses of the Lover
- Willing to die for another
- Can lose their own personality while pleasing another
The Lover's Motivation:
To give everything they've got to another person. To make any relationship as strong as it can be.
Character archetype examples:
- Romeo and Juliet
- Jack and Rose
- Jaime Lannister
12.
The Seducer Some call them a femme fatale or homme fatale for a man. These are beautiful people using their looks and charm to take control of every situation. They're conniving and value only what they want. And nothing will stop them.
Strengths of the Seducer
- Charismatic
- Beauty
- Smooth talker
Weaknesses of the Seducer
- No morals
- Controlling
- No loyalty
The Seducer's Motivation:
To run the show. They want power and control at all costs.
Character archetype examples:
- Cleopatra
- Tony Stark
- Villanelle from Killing Eve
Character Archetype Mash-ups
You may be reading this list and thinking that some of our character examples fit into multiple archetypes.
You're totally right. The best characters are developed thinking of multiple personality traits. We're not just one archetype, that would make us boring. The more dimensions you give a character, the more real they'll feel.
Also, most characters start as one archetype and then morph into others. Captain America begins as Steve Rogers, a puny guy who is the child, given super soldier serum, and becomes the warrior.
Anakin Skywalker begins Star Wars as a child, but toward the end, he becomes a warrior for the dark side.
Look at characters like Villanelle on Killing Eve. She's a seducer, a warrior, and even a child in some ways.
As you can see, character archetypes flow naturally into one another. The best storytellers mash different archetypes together and then take you on a journey from your character's traditional classification and allow them to grow into other models on this list.
So what are some popular character archetype mash-ups?
Well, I hope you and your understanding of character archetypes has expanded.
Now it's time to take a look at our character arc post, so you combine them for a winning story. Also, take a look at our internal and external conflict post for ideas of the kinds of situations where we can see your characters develop.
And don't forget about the six emotional arcs that you can use to help your screenwriting as well. These kinds of stories span film and television. It's important to think about the types of changes and how they'll carry over a movie, an episode, a season, and a series.
Like and share if this helped, and if you have questions, post them in the comments.
I can't wait to read what you write next...
12 Pearson archetypes or how to create a memorable character
To create an interesting and understandable character, imagination alone is not enough. To make the hero fall in love with the public, the authors of books, films and games use archetypes - images recognizable all over the world.
The archetype determines not only the appearance, but also the character of the character - he will become a good-natured merry fellow or an evil genius, a knight in armor or an attractive companion.
Today we will talk about the system of twelve archetypes and how they are used in the game and film industry. And also let's figure out which archetypes are represented in Overwatch and Mass Effect and why they are so good.
The most important thing about classification
Initially, the concept of archetypes referred exclusively to psychology, and was introduced by Carl Jung. His writings were rethought by marketer Margaret Mark and psychoanalyst Carol Pearson and then adapted for a wider audience.
Carl Jung. Source
This is how 12 archetypes appeared, each with its own characteristics and main values:
- The simple-minded represents security;
- Sage - understanding;
- Seeker - freedom;
- Rebel - independence;
- Magician - strength;
- Hero - skill;
- Jester - the pleasure of life;
- Nice fellow - belonging;
- Caring - comfort;
- Lover - enjoyment of other people;
- Ruler - control;
- Creator - innovation.
The screenwriters and directors immediately liked the classification. Indeed, by the name alone and a brief description of the archetype, one can imagine an approximate image of the character: habits, clothes, physique, even facial features.
And when the hero is intuitive to the viewer, he automatically becomes close to him - and marketers do not hesitate to use this.
Archetypes in advertising
Images of advertising characters are constructed in such a way that the audience can easily recognize themselves in them. And when a person finds something in common with an actor on the screen, he begins to believe that he will also like the advertised product.
Frame from the film "Jaws", 1975. Source
You'll notice how often the Innocent archetype appears in advertisements for toothpaste, detergent, or inexpensive pet food. The lover advertises a perfume that will conquer everyone around.
Jester - mobile operators. And if you need to show the spiritual significance of the product, they use the image of the Buddha or the oriental monk - the Sage.
Not only the characters in the videos, but the brands themselves choose archetypes that will be close to the audience. So BMW carries himself like a Rebel and Mercedes like a Ruler. And all communication is built in accordance with the chosen image.
Still from the movie "Halloween", 1978. Source
Archetypes in films
It is much more interesting to deal with the archetypes that are found in films. For example, Marvel characters are the main reason why the studio's films are such a success. The recipe is simple: we mix Jester, Rebel, Lover, Caring and Nice Guy. We get a bright team, whose actions are pleasant to watch.
So in the "Guardians of the Galaxy" the main role is played by the Jester - Peter Jason. A simple guy who enjoys life, loves music, dances, jokes sparklingly and not always appropriately.
He himself is able to capture the attention of the viewer, but he is also added to the Lover - Gamorra. A femme fatale who gradually becomes closer to Peter. Marvel often pairs this archetype with the main character.
The tandem of Rocket and Groot is the friendship between Rebel and Caring. The raccoon is sharp, freedom-loving and aggressive. Groot is caring, kind, does not like violence, but is ready to stand as a wall for loved ones.
Still from the film Guardians of the Galaxy. Source
Drax - Good fellow. He enjoys being part of the team and misses his family. Sympathetic, kind, charming in his directness.
The characters are simple and the conflicts are on the surface. But that's why they are intuitive to any viewer - that's why superhero movies are globally popular.
Archetypes in casual games
In games, characters can be given one or more archetypes at the same time.
It all depends on the scope and goals of the project. In casual games, the hero does not play an important role - rather, as an avatar or an advertising tool.
So match 3 usually chooses the Seeker archetype, because their target audience is adults who grew up watching films about Indiana Jones and Lara Croft.
Still from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, 1984. Source
But Chaos Chronicles puzzle is aimed at children and teenagers. Therefore, the appearance of the character is the classic archetype of the Hero in armor and with a sword. To enhance the effect, they were created in the Japanese chibi style - with a large head, large eyes and a characteristic hairstyle.
Archetypes in co-op games
Co-ops rarely need a deep plot and detailed conflict - the simplicity and clarity of the characters are important to the players. Therefore, the studios create bright characters whose character and demeanor will be clear at first sight.
A good example to parse is Overwatch. The heroine Tracer belongs to the Jester archetype. Her image is dominated by a warm yellow color, which psychologically sets you up for lightness and positive. Tracer is not weighted with armor, she wears a light jacket with a high collar, tight trousers. Sports shoes: reminiscent of running shoes. The pose is simple, the hair is short and tousled.
Everything about Tracer speaks of her positive attitude, playfulness and mobility. Her ability is movement in space and time. The jester brings chaos, but not for the purpose of destruction, but for the sake of fun.
Character from the Overwatch game. Source
Another heroine, Moira, is Mage. It changes matter, tests the laws of physics for strength. It can go beyond the real and become its own evil manifestation, or it can work for the benefit of society. The magician is a dual character: both a good healer and a mad scientist.
Her costume is similar to a bathrobe and is done in neutral gray.
And purple details are the color of magic, the unknown space, the latest technologies. The angularity of her face and costume hint at her "evil" origins.
Overwatch character . Source
Zenyatta is the image of the archetypal Sage. The hero resembles a Buddhist monk, a bearer of mysterious knowledge. A wise man is someone to whom one can turn for advice. Therefore, his whole appearance reflects the focus on acquiring knowledge.
Zenyatta is ascetic, wearing only shabby trousers and simple sandals. The metal frame of the body does not look durable, and the hero himself is thin, his face does not express emotions. The appeasement of the hero is emphasized by a meditative pose and spheres flying around.
Overwatch character. Source
If the hero is a person
Overwatch and Marvel are prime examples of how good archetypes can be in their purest form. But in the legendary Mass Effect series, the creators endow one character with several archetypes.
This way the characters are deep and interesting, but at the same time remain understandable to the player. Liara T'Soni is one of the key faces of the series. Visually, she is a Magician: she is dressed in a kind of robe with sharp corners and numerous elements. The clothes have a long hem, a high collar.
But Liara is also the Lover archetype. She loves the main character, her planet, and even her mother, who wished her harm. And Liara herself is easy to love: she is beautiful, smart, resourceful and always ready to support.
The entire asari race is, to some extent, the Lover archetype. Attractive type, striving for intimacy. This is not only a desire to fall in love, but also an impulse to be part of society.
Another character is Garrus Vakarian. Initially, he is a Hero: massive silver armor with weighted shoulders, shades of cold blue in the image. But Garrus is unique in that he combines opposites - the archetypes of the Hero and the Rebel.
Usually one of them creates and does good, and the other destroys and embodies evil.
But Garrus is against the system. He approaches the Rebel archetype when he becomes Archangel on Omega in the second part of the series. Keeps criminal gangs at bay, breaks the system and maintains order at the same time. His rebellious personality is accentuated by a scar and armor dented from the explosion.
By the third part, Garrus is also revealed as a Lover. The romantic line with him becomes more developed, there is a conflict associated with the family. This is emphasized visually: during the tango from the Citadel DLC, he finally removes the “hero” armor and puts on a suit.
Archetypes for the main characters
In addition to their appearance, the characters also correspond to their archetypal path. You can't send an Innocent to save the universe and have a Nice Guy swear - that would look unconvincing.
Most often, the Hero archetype is chosen for the role of the protagonist - the image of a savior, a strong and courageous person.
For example, Shepard from Mass Effect: whether we play as a paragon or a renegade, he remains the savior of the universe and the hero of mankind.
There are Rebels in the main roles. Bigby, the big gray wolf from Wolf Among Us, belongs to this archetype. This is evident, especially if you play as an evil character. He can abuse the power of the sheriff and do as he pleases. People around him dislike and fear Bigby, and his fabulous past is far from a peaceful life.
A frame from Uncharted 4
Archetypes for villains
Antagonists are often more charismatic than the main characters. First of all, these are Rebels, radically dissatisfied with the whole world. The skull from the Metal Gear Solid V series is a good example of a motivated and fanatical Rebel who seeks to destroy the biggest system in the world - language.
The Ruler archetype is well suited to the role of a villain. These include Mundus from Devil My Cry, a solid and dangerous demon lord.
Frame from the game Fallout: New Vegas. Source
Another example of a flamboyant Ruler is Mr. House from Fallout: New Vegas. He manipulates people, treats them like his subjects. It is important for him to assert power through obedience.
How to use archetypes
Pearson's classification is not a mold to mold characters into. This is a tool that helps to make the image more interesting. Usually the author first comes up with an image, his character traits and appearance. And only then does he understand what archetype he belongs to.
Knowing the characteristics of each of the 12 archetypes, you can better work out the motivation of the character, understand his principles and detect weaknesses. So the Rebel is often prone to crime, the Hero can be cruel, and the Caregiver tends to be all-consuming control.
Types can be used both in their pure form and mixed two or three archetypes in one. The main thing is that the final image is consistent and understandable - then the audience will definitely fall in love with it.
Now you can take a closer look at your favorite characters and recognize them as Rebels, Creators or Mages. Write in the comments which of the archetypes you consider the most interesting, and which one is the most overrated and rather boring.
Still from the film La La Land, 2016. Source
99 typical characters and archetypes that can be found in films - Telegraph
Translation https://t.me/shoshannamovieWhat is the difference between archetypes and characters?
An archetype is a very typical example of a particular person or thing; Types that correspond to the fundamental motives of a person. Archetypes are broader types of characters that can be found in all walks of life. They are used as the initial form for a character, which evolves into a character by being immersed in the story and involved in conflict.99 archetypes and characters:
Absent-minded professor
Absent-minded genius professor (Doc Brown of Back to the Future )
A hero who loves everyone
A character who loves everyone and will suffer for the sins of his loved ones.
Anti-hero
A hero who is driven by a desire for power, money, control or certain vices, because of this they are often selfish, anti-social, power-hungry and pragmatic. But, in the end, sometimes they can show some positive feelings. (Max of Mad Max )
Anthropomorphic personification
A living embodiment of isolation from certain aspects, properties or connections of objects and phenomena. They can be very strong in their maximum manifestation, but still have a narrow focus and clear limitations due to what they represent. (Joy, sadness, fear, Anger from Puzzle )
Spectator's surrogate
Characters that viewers sympathize with, seeing themselves in their place. Usually they are victims of social problems. (Clay and Hannah from 13 Reasons Why )
Bad Boy
Single macho who doesn't care if he's bad. He is really proud of it and it often attracts others.
(Dallas off Rogue )
Big fun guy
Big, funny, attractive guy or girl. (Hurley from Lost )
Black Knight
Evil warrior or antagonist. (Darth Vader from Star Wars )
Blind Seer
Blind character who has great all-round knowledge. (Chirrut from Star Wars Rogue One)
Boss
Boss in everything. They constantly control everyone, compete with everyone, are aggressive and always shoot.
The boy next door
An ordinary nice guy who does everything right.
Criminal careerist
An intelligent and highly skilled character who runs a high-stakes business. (Neil McCauley of Struggles )
Champion
A character who is completely dedicated to one cause. (Sam from The Lord of the Rings )
Child
This character is young in age or spirit and loves adventure - or at least thinks he does until he actually experiences it.
(Tim from Jurassic Park )
The Chosen One
They were chosen by someone or some power and became the only ones who can resolve the plot conflict. (Neo from Matrices )
Chosen Elector
This is the character that finds and chooses the Chosen One. (Morpheus from Matrix )
Conscience
A classic character type whose sole purpose is to serve as the protagonist's moral compass. (Jimini Cricket from Pinocchio )
Rival
Competitive Underdog (Rocky from Rocky or Daniel from Karate Kid )
The Defiler
Their main role in the story is to bring out the worst in everyone (Rumpelstiltskin from Shrek Forever )
Lady in Distress
9002 a lady in need of salvation a noble, innocent woman in need. (Kim in Hostage or Lois Lane in Superman )Dark Lord
Almost immortal personification of evil.
(Sauron from The Lord of the Rings )
Dumb muscles
A character lacking in intelligence who is assigned to do the dirty work for the main villain or any other antagonist.
Old Master
Wise, strong man or woman teaching his powerful craft to a young apprentice. (Mr. Miyagi of Karate Kid)
Selfish
They love to be the center of attention and tend to compensate very unwisely for their need to be respected/loved.
Scapegoat
A scapegoat that everyone uses.
Father figure
A person who has power and authority and does everything possible to protect those for whom he is responsible. (Atticus from To Kill a Mockingbird)
Femme Fatale
A beautiful but mischievous and treacherous woman (Catherine Tramell in Basic Instinct )
Ferryman 0003
A character who acts as an aid, allowing characters to overcome almost impossible obstacles in order to achieve certain goals.
(Heimdall from Thor )
The last girl standing
The girl from the horror movie who will be the last to live. (Lori from Halloween )
Gentle Giant
Big, strong and intimidating characters, who, however, have a good heart. (Prince Adam of Beauty and the Beast )
Gentleman Thief
A very charming, sophisticated and well-mannered thief. (Thomas Crown of The Thomas Crown Scam )
Neighbor
An average but attractive "next door" girl.
God or Goddess
Powerful, but often showing human qualities in the end. (Zeus from Little Mermaid ).
Good King
A revered, wise and understanding ruler who puts the welfare of his people above his own. (King Arthur or Caesar from Planet of the Apes )
An important person
A bright character who embodies the stereotypes of socialites.
(March from Arthur )
Grotesque
Often a tragic character who evokes both disgust and pity because his ugliness overshadows a completely normal and likable personality (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)
Arlekino
Clown or professional fool.
Herald
This character sets the hero on an adventure (Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars ).
A real hero
Face to face with the main danger, which serves as the basis for the central part of the story.
Penetrating
A risk-taking and combat-experienced character who, however, often acts recklessly. (Maverick from Master Shooter )
Monster Hunter
A character whose only job is to destroy any monster(s) in question. (Quinn from Jaws )
Naive girl
A young girl who is attractive, innocent and at the same time useful.
Pretender/Pretender
Smart and able to use the situation and other characters for their own purposes.
Jester
They treat everything carefree and joking, however, they always care about others from a pure heart. (Will Ferrell at Elfe )
Jock
A typical athlete who doesn't show much intelligence.
Kirk
Captain or other leader who must reject emotions and act practical.
Knight-Errant
A noble knight who is on a quest.
Single
He tries to close himself off from the outside world and has problems with socialization. (Theodore from She )
Loser
The guy or girl who always seems to get the short end of the stick. They do not care about their position in society, or they try to change everything, but suffer defeat after defeat.
(the guys from Pied Piper in Silicon Valley )
Artful Robber
Deftly break the law and, at first glance, do not always seem to care about someone else, but at a certain moment they can open their heart in order to please the viewer . (Han Solo from Star Wars ).
Lovers in spite of
Lovers who want to be with each other despite constant conflict with other characters. (Roma and Juliet)
Loyal
Have a strong ability to support others, despite the fact that their loyalty is not always grateful (Dr. Watson from Sherlock Holmes ).
Evil scientist
Usually insane or highly eccentric, puts science above any human rights or ethics. (Dr. Moreau from of the islands of Dr. Moro )
Mage or Shaman
people with special knowledge or mystical forces who came to the rescue of the main character (Dick Halloran from Rasiiy )
Manicing girl of dreams
Local and attractive character with an attractive character with an attractive character with an attractive character with an attractive character with an attractive character with an attractive character with an attractive character eccentric personality quirks (Sam of Gardenland )
McCoy
A character who cares deeply about others and always does the right thing no matter the situation.
Mentally or socially disabled
Dependent on someone, and sometimes exhausting others. More preferred are those that have positive qualities that the viewer can experience. (Raymond from Rain Man )
Mentor
The mentor is an adviser, expert, and, as a rule, a smart and wise character in any field of knowledge. He cares about the main character and wants to be in his life, which is often the reason for the development of the conflict.
Monster
Either has human traits or none at all. Designed to sow fear and panic.
Caring mother
An image that is a source of comfort and sometimes excessive and dangerous care for the protagonist. (Mrs. Gump of Forrest Gump ).
Mommy's boy
A person who is excessively attached to his mother. It plays for all emotion types and genres, including comedy, drama (Forrest Gump) and tragedy (Norman of Psycho ).
Nemesis/Rival
Exist to hate the hero for a variety of reasons. Often similar to the hero in many ways and therefore always trying to overshadow because of jealousy or outright hatred. (Loki from Thor )
Botan
Usually this is a socially inept, obsessive or overly intelligent person. Often has a good heart and is always well understood (Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory )
Noble Savage
A savage raised outside of civilization with a noble set of qualities who has no experience of socialization. (Tarzan)
Observer
They see everything that happens, but remain quiet and cool. As a rule, they are wise, and, every time they speak, it is very important.
Outlaw
Look like rebels (see below). They are romanticized, charismatic, their criminal acts can be approved by society (Robin Hood).
Peacekeeper
Personify the voice of reason between the warring parties, trying to establish peace between the characters.
Pessimist
For them the glass is always half empty. They will not take risks, but they will be dissatisfied with everything that surrounds them. (Hudson from Aliens)
Psychopath
They have no conscience, morality and the ability to feel other people's experiences. All this characterizes the character as extremely negative.
Rebel
While many believe that James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause is the quintessential rebel (although Loner is more appropriate here), the truth is that rebels take the loner to the next level. development when they push each and every one without caring what they think about it. (John Bender at Breakfast Club )
Red Shirt
An expendable character who is never given much backstory and usually dies shortly after introduction. The name is taken from the original Star Trek series, where the red-shirted characters were often those one-off characters.
Unwilling monster
Usually they don't know that they are monsters at all. They are often part of a species for which it is natural to cause trouble to people, which is not characteristic of the monster himself. (Frankenstein)
True King
A just ruler lost or forgotten, whose return or triumph restores the world. (Aragon from The Lord of the Rings )
Seeker
They are always looking for the truth, revealing secrets, lies and deceit, despite all the dangers they face on a personal and professional level. (Erin Brockovich)
Shrew
Vicious or aggressive woman.
Side impact
Friends and helpers of the protagonist. They are very similar to loyal subjects, but play a more active role in the adventures of heroes (Robin from Batman Forever)
Sociopath
A person with a personality disorder manifests himself in extremely socially dangerous acts, as well as in the absence of conscience.
They are smart, cunning and dangerous (Hannibal Lecter from Silence of the Lambs ).
Bella from the South
A young woman who often represents an upper-class American Southern or a young and pretty woman. (Scarlett O'Hara from Gone with the Wind)
Spock
Spock is an archetype that focuses on logic, rules and reason, fighting for the best.
Straight person
Exists next to a funny character. Their serious and immoral attitude makes his partner even more crazy and funny. (Abbott from the Abbott and Costello films)
Narrator
A character who is known for his ability to tell stories, or those who choose to do so, even to the frustration of other characters. (Wally from Crocodile Dundee )
Superhero
Superhero who tries to save the world.
Super Soldier
A soldier who operates beyond human potential or ability.
(Luke Devereux from Universal Soldier )
Supervillain
The antithesis of the superhero.
Rough cutthroat
Perky, noisy and boastful man with a sword (Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean ).
Tomboy
Interested in sports and all kinds of pastimes that are characteristic of men. (Scout of To Kill a Mockingbird )
Tormented Artist
Tormented by disillusionment with art and society.
City drunk
An ordinary man in a small town who is known to be constantly drunk.
Tragic hero
Hero with a flaw who leads him or her to eventual death and downfall (Skywalker from Star Wars )
Deceiver
Deceiver
Self-absorbed and often liars. They can be jesters, but they always influence the main characters in some way.
(Mask of Masks or Buddy Love from Nutty Professor )
Troubled Teenager
Don't accept any rules and defy any authority because of depression, hormones or social issues. Despite their very firm stance, they are the most vulnerable characters. (Evie from Thirteen )
Defector
A character who at some point changes sides in a conflict. (Cypher from Matrix )
Village Fool
A character who usually exemplifies stupidity and ignorance, but sometimes shows a good heart and contributes to the fall or rise of the hero. (Noah Percy from Mystic Forest )
Rogue
An evil character in the story
Whiskey priest
Callahan of Exorcist )
Wise fool
"Fool" sometimes showing signs of intelligence. (Dory from Finding Nemo )
Wise Old Man
An elderly character who imparts wisdom to the protagonist.
