Character Archetypes
The protagonist in the story that ends up transforming because of the journey
Who is the Hero?
The hero is given a gift or special ability.
What is a Talisman?
The antagonist who often displays the dark side of the Hero's personality.
Who is the Shadow?
Miles Morales meets Peter B. Parker, an adult Spiderman from an alternate dimension who eventually teaches him how to swing from webs.
What is Meeting the Mentor?
This character archetype is usually older and wiser than the hero.
Who is the Mentor?
Luke lives with Owen and Beru and works on moisture vaporators.
What is Ordinary World?
Recurring character types that appear in stories from many different cultures.
What is an archetype?
Moana says she can't leave the island of her people.
What is the Refusal of the Call?
This character usually cannot join the hero on their quest, although they have trained them for it.
Who is the Mentor?
Harry Potter decides that he must return from the dead after defeating Voldemort.
What is The Resurrection?
This character calls the hero to start the journey.
Who is the Herald?
Thor is given Mjölnir because he is worthy.
What is the Reward (or Seizing the Sword)?
Usually a lower level foe. They test the hero and force them to face their fear.
Who is the Threshold Guardian?
Steve Rogers is told about the Super Soldier Serum and asked to participate.
What is the Call to Adventure?
This sensuous beauty tries to bring down the hero through his attraction to her.
Who is the Temptress?
Marlin and Dory go to a meeting with some scary sharks.
What is Crossing the Threshold?
Sometimes a love interest but always creates suspense by changing, either literally or figuratively.
Who is the Shapeshifter?
Black Panther and Killmonger fight it out on the train tracks while the Wakandan civil war happens above them.
What is the Supreme Ordeal?
This vulnerable female character needs to be rescued by the hero
What is the Damsel in Distress?
The task the hero has to complete or the problem she has to solve.
What is The Quest?