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Archetypes. 3 January 2012. What is an archetype?. I’m so glad you asked! An archetype, in the strictest and most simplistic sense of the term, is a literary stereotypes. They are the characters that you see over and over again in literature.
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Archetypes 3 January 2012
What is an archetype? • I’m so glad you asked! • An archetype, in the strictest and most simplistic sense of the term, is a literary stereotypes. They are the characters that you see over and over again in literature. • The formal definition is very important and will help you solidify your knowledge of what an archetype is. • Formal definition: “An archetype is a pattern from which copies can be made. That is, it is a universal theme that manifests itself differently on an individual basis” (http://www.essortment.com/understanding-literary-archetypes-61301.html). • Quick! Can you think of a type of character that you believe could be an archetype?
Common Archetypes • There are many different archetypes that have been identified in literature, but you will be working with some of the most commonly recognized. These include: • The Child: childish to childlike longing for the innocent, regardless of age • The Hero • The Devil: symbolizes humans' own lower nature • The Wise Old Man: profound philosopher distinguished for wisdom and sound judgment
Common Archetypes Continued • The Trickster or Fox: plays tricks or otherwise disobeys normal rules and conventional behavior • The Damsel (in distress): persecuted maiden; a classic theme in world literature, art, and film. She is usually a beautiful young woman placed in a dire predicament by a villain or monster and who requires a hero to achieve her rescue. • The Mentor: someone who imparts wisdom to and shares knowledge with a less experienced colleague (www.wikipedia.org)
Example Time • Anybody ever heard of Harry Potter? Well, if you haven’t, today is your lucky day. The wildly popular Harry Potter books and movies are packed full of archetypes. See if you can recognize any in the following clip. • After the clip, jot down any archetypes you have identified in your notes! (There are two obvious ones here- refer to your notes if you need to.) • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NYt1qirBWg • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mObK5XD8udk
Extras • Interesting in learning more about archetypes? Visit this website for an in depth look at archetypes, as well as more examples! • http://www.ehow.com/info_8179980_list-frequent-archetypes-literature.html