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Archetype: An archetype is a universally understood symbol, term, statement, or pattern of behavior, a prototype upon which others are copied, patterned, or emulated. Archetypes are often used in myths and storytelling across different cultures.

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Examples: Outcast, Damsel in Distress, Temptress, Star-Crossed Lover, The Hunter, The Hero, Martyr, Wise Old Man/Woman, The Devil Figure, The Scapegoat

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• Hero: the protagonist or central character whose primary purpose is to separate from the ordinary world (take a journey). He must answer the challenge, complete the quest, and restore balance to the Ordinary World. We experience the journey through the eyes of the hero.

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• Mentor: provides motivation, insights and training to help the hero (Think Obi-Wan).

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The 7 archetypes of the Hero’s Journey Story Model:

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• Threshold Guardians: Protect the Special World and its secrets from the Hero and provide an essential test to prove a Hero’s commitment and worth. Along the way, the hero encounters Threshold Guardians who block his path. These obstacles are tests for the hero. Does the hero have what it takes? Threshold Guardians may be working for the good or bad side or no one at all.

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• Heralds: Issue challenges and announce the coming of significant change. They can make their appearance anytime during a Journey, but they often appear at the beginning of the Journey and announce a Call to Adventure.

(The Herald doesn’t have to be an actual person. In Lord of the Rings it’s a ring, in Harry Potter it’s letters, in Star Wars: A New Hope, it’s Luke’s Aunt and Uncle Dying)

• Shapeshifters: Shapeshifters mislead the Hero by hiding a character’s intentions and loyalties.

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• Shadow: This physical force is determined to destroy the Hero and his cause. It can represent our darkest desires, our greatest fears, or our untapped resources.

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• Tricksters: Relish the disruption of the status quo, turning the Ordinary World into chaos with their quick turns and physical antics (Think : Han Solo). Tricksters use laughter and ridicule to make characters see the absurdity of the situation and perhaps force a change.

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Modern Examples