Archetypes 1
Uses brute force to oppose the protagonist
Monster
Intellectual/cunning opponent, uses brain and strategy to oppose protagonist
Villain
Giving a group priority over the individual; emphasizes the needs and goals of the group as a whole
Collectivism
A doubting or questioning attitude or state of mind
Skepticism
Pursuit of knowledge by observation and experiment
Older or mature character that guides or helps the protagonist; wise, imparts advice, trusted
Mentor
Main character that struggles with morals and courage, not often willing to sacrifice themselves, but will sometimes do the right thing
Antihero
Main character in a story, who the story is about or closely follows
Protagonist
An emphasis on material objects, comforts, and consideration
Materialism
Reason is the primary basis for knowledge; doesn't rely on experience, authority, or spiritual revelation
Rationalism
Tries to manipulate and convince the protagonist to join the dark side or give up their goal
Tempter
Seeks help from older, wiser characters; experiences a 'coming of age'
Innocent
Works against the antagonist, usually in conflict (physical, emotional, intellectual).
Antagonist
Nature is a blind force acting without thought or intellect, not due to spiritual or divine direction
Naturalism
Belief in existence of deities or realities beyond the perceptual/intellectual; directly accessible by an altered state of mind
Mysticism
Character is blamed for everything bad that occurs, takes the fall for others
Scapegoat
Character gives emotional support and nourishment, selfless, serves others
Caregiver
Practice of giving positive form or character to things, represents things at they might or should be vs. as they are
Idealism
People are entirely free and responsible for what they make of their lives
Existentialism
Opposition to the withdrawal of state support / recognition from an established church
Antidisestablishmentarianism
Someone who sacrifices their life or faces suffering instead of giving up what they hold sacred
Martyr
Job is to confuse/derail but occasionally help the protagonist; bring uncertainty and tension; loyalty is in question
Shapeshifter
Issues challenges and announces coming of significant change through inner knowledge, need for change, or a call to action
Herald
Belief that life is meaningless; maintains nothing in the world has real existence
Nihilism
Indifference to pleasure or pain; discipline/master of emotions
Stoicism