Story Archetypes

Front

Central figures in stories that undergo a journey, face challenges and transformations.

Back

Hero

Front

The main antagonist of the story. May represent the opposite of the hero and their beliefs or reflect a darker aspect of the hero and their potential for evil.

Back

THE SHADOW

Front

MENTOR

Back

The hero’s guide or teacher. Provides the hero with advice, training, or magical assistance.

Front

HERALD

Back

The one who brings the Call to Adventure. This could be a person or an event.

Front

Characters who help the hero throughout the quest or journey. They often complement the hero’s skills and help them face challenges.

Back

ALLIES

Front

Forces that serve as obstacles or stand in the way at important turning points, including jealous enemies, professional gatekeepers, or even the hero’s own fears and doubts.

Back

THRESHOLD GUARDIANS

Front

Can serve as an ally or an enemy to the hero, sometimes both. Their unpredictability adds complexity to the story, usually representing change or twists and turns within the plot.

Back

SHAPESHIFTERS

Front

TRICKSTERS

Back

Clowns and mischief-makers; they usually add levity to the story through comic relief. They can be allies or enemies or both.

Front

TALISMAN

Back

A special (and often magical) item that assists the heroes on their quest.

Front

Something shakes up the situation, either from external pressures or from something rising up from deep within, so the hero must face the beginnings of change.

Back

THE CALL TO ADVENTURE