Archetypal Patterns in Literature and Film Archetypes are recurring images, symbols, characters, settings, and patterns that

recur throughout time and culture.. In other words, you see these same patterns in films/literature/art from all different cultures and time periods. Archetypal characters Sidekickshelps the hero/protagonist to reach his eventual goal Earth Mother/Wise Old Maneternal provider, protective and sheltering Teacher/Mentorprovides hero/protagonist with knowledge or skills that helps him/her to achieve a goal. Can also help innocent move into knowledge Herothe protagonist of the story (there are various types of hero characters Anti Herothe difference between hero and anti!hero lies in situation, motivation and result. !nnocenta child or na"ve/ine#perienced man or woman who moves from innocence to e#perience and knowledge Trickstercharacter who, through superior wit and cunning, can deceive and manipulate those who seemingly have greater strength and authority "illainevil character who attempts to keep the hero from achieving his/her goal $he %nderdogthe odds are against this character& they are outnumbered, weaker, poorer, etc. #amsel in #istressfemale character in need of rescue& unable to save herself Archetypal settin$s and sym%ols &a'es and tunnelssymbols of descent into the unconscious or the inner self. Also represents the darkness of the unknown &ountryside/meado(often associated with healing and goodness )ardenordered and controlled environment Mountains/peaksoften symbols of the 'uest for the spiritual self or personal achievement *i'ereternal change& destiny The Seamystery Treesrepresents life and knowledge Archetypal themes !nitiation/rite o+ passa$ethe character (usually young moves from innocence into e#perience and knowledge& from childhood into adulthood ,ourney or -uestsearch for origins, identity, perfection, fulfillment, love, true father or mother, treasure, fame, wisdom, salvation Trans+ormationmost basic kind is literalevil witch changing a person& or the love a pure woman may change a beast into a handsome prince The Falle#pelled from paradise& fall from grace #eath and re%irthovercome feelings of despair and suffering and through self!e#amination, character is reborn