12 literary archetypes

an archetype is a typical example of a person, thing, or emotion. in literary terms, it's a character or event who your characters subconsciously relate with. the 12 literary archetypes draw upon common experiences and instincts to appeal to your readers almost instantly!

however, they're not to be confused with stereotypes! while both are typical examples, stereotypes are often over simplified and cliché. they tamper down an emotion or characteristic until it's easily recognisable and distinguishable. since they're so overused, they become boring! while archetypes are also recognisable, they aren't so familiar that readers can predict what happens in the story.

the ruler

the ruler believes power is everything. they desire to be in control of everyone, with no margin for independent thinking.

strengths: leadership, resources, omnipotence

weaknesses: out of touch, disliked, paranoid of being overpowered

motivations: to maintain order in society by staying in, and gaining power

the creator

the creator tasks themselves with being the absolute best at their craft. they love discovering new ideas.

strengths: creativity, dedication, divergent thinking

weaknesses: perfectionist, workaholic, conceited

motivations: to create a lasting impression/legacy through their inventions

the sage

the sage lives for the truth, in fear of misleading. they're often a mentor to the hero.

strengths: wisdom, listening, grounding presence

weaknesses: cautious, made many mistakes, unwilling to fight

motivations: to teach & prevent others from making (the same) mistakes.

the child

the child's main goal is to be happy, and to shy away from things that cause pain & worry.

strengths: imaginative, hopeful, sincere

weaknesses: naïve, unskilled, easily deceived

motivations: to obtain & share everlasting happiness.

the explorer

the explorer yearns for experiences outside of their comfort zone - they never shy away from adventure!

strengths: curious, prepared, driven

weaknesses: restless, aloof, never satisfied

motivations: to break the status quo & be known for their explorations of the unknown

the rebel

the rebel wants to break the rules - they seek power, often to make change against injustice.

strengths: virtue, inspirational, independent thinker

weaknesses: law-breaking, self-involved, treated poorly

motivations: to change and better the world & go against current figures in power.

the hero

the hero strives to improve their world through courage & competence. 

strengths: courage, honour, preparation skills

weaknesses: overconfident, egotistical, a lot to lose

motivations: to fulfil their goals, and to save the world/gain power.

the magician

the magician provides strategies and answers to complex puzzles faced by other characters.

strengths: omniscience, strategy, discipline

weaknesses: arrogance, corruptibility, easily angered

motivations: to become more powerful by finding and eliminating chaos.

the jester

the jester believes in living in the moment, and seeks pleasure in otherwise plain situations.

strengths: funny, observant, likeable

weaknesses: unreliable, distracted, self-centred

motivations: to make life more enjoyable, and easier.

the everyman

the everyman is an average person - when faced with difficulties, all they aim to do is survive.

strengths: grounded, relatable, foreseer

weaknesses: unprepared, unmotivated, ordinary

motivations: to stay alive & protect themselves by blending in.

the lover

the lover craves intimate relationships, and is willing to sacrifice anything, including themselves, for them.

strengths: conviction, humanism, passion

weaknesses: irrationality, over-devoted, over selfless 

motivations: to give everything they have in a relationship.

the caregiver

the caregiver lives to protect and care for others around them, who they see as important.

strengths: compassionate, generous, selfless

weaknesses: follower, ambitionless, easily deceived

motivations: to protect & serve those that they love, for a greater good.