Breakfast Plot
Why are the five students in detention on Saturday morning?
Each of them broke a different school rule and are being punished with Saturday detention.
The Rebel: Challenges authority, breaks the rules, and fights against conformity.
John Bender
Which student does Vernon label as the “Criminal” — defiant, disrespectful, and dangerous to others?
John Bender
What lesson do the students learn about judging others by their social group or appearance?
They realize stereotypes don’t define a person and everyone has hidden struggles.
According to Hilary Blair's TED Talk, what’s the main difference between a stereotype and an archetype?
A stereotype limits and oversimplifies a person, while an archetype reveals depth and possibility.
What is the main reason Principal Vernon gives for assigning the essay?
He wants each student to explain who they think they are.
The Caregiver: Compassionate, nurturing, and protective of others’ well-being.
Allison Reynolds (the “Basket Case,” showing care and empathy beneath her quietness)
Which character does Vernon stereotype as the “Princess” — privileged, popular, and focused on appearance and social status?
Claire Standish
What does the movie suggest about the pressures teenagers face from adults and expectations?
It shows that parents, teachers, and society often push teens into roles that don’t reflect who they really are.
In society, why do people often rely on stereotypes instead of archetypes when judging others?
Because stereotypes are easy shortcuts that help us categorize people quickly, even though they ignore personal truth.
What does the scene where the students share lunch reveal about their differences?
It shows their social and economic contrasts — for example, Claire’s sushi vs. Brian’s simple sandwich.
The Everyman: Relatable, dependable, and wants to belong and fit in.
Brian Johnson
Which student does Vernon see as the classic “Jock” — the athlete whose value comes from strength and competition rather than thoughtfulness?
Andrew Clark
What lesson does the group’s shared conversation about pain and pressure reveal?
That vulnerability builds empathy — when they open up, they connect on a deeper human level.
Which Breakfast Club character best represents Blair’s idea of moving from a stereotype to a fuller archetype, and how?
John Bender — he begins as the “Criminal” stereotype but reveals pain, intelligence, and vulnerability, showing an archetype of the Rebel or Wounded Hero.
What happens during the group’s emotional conversation in the library?
They open up about their family pressures and realize they have more in common than they thought.
The Ruler: Values control, order, and status; wants to maintain appearances and influence.
Claire Standish
From Principal Vernon’s point of view, which student fits the stereotype of the “Brain” — the quiet, rule-following overachiever obsessed with grades?
Brian Johnson
What does the final essay Brian writes teach both the audience and Principal Vernon?
It teaches that labeling people is shallow; they are all more than the stereotypes he assigned them.
What does Blair mean by the phrase “Yes, and” in her talk?
It means accepting the truth in an archetype while also expanding it to include individuality and complexity.
How does the ending, with Bender raising his fist in the air, symbolize the group’s transformation?
It represents his pride, defiance, and the unity they found despite their differences.
The Hero: Faces challenges with courage, stands up for others, and seeks to prove worth.
Andrew Clark
Which student might Vernon dismiss as the “Basket Case” — strange, withdrawn, and socially isolated?
Allison Reynolds
What overall message does the film leave about individuality and connection?
True understanding comes from seeing beyond categories and recognizing the shared humanity in everyone.
How does Blair’s message about archetypes encourage us to understand others in real life?
It teaches that seeing people through archetypes helps us recognize universal patterns and unique individuality, fostering empathy and connection.