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Archetypes: Using Writing Tools to the Max

     I was putting together my lesson plans for my 4th Grade Creative Writing class and I saw "Archetypes" as the next subject to address. I was so excited! I hadn't used them until my current book, but now I can spend hours studying their fascination. 
     
     Archetypes are a single word that acts as a pattern or model that helps in character development.  They help in creating variety and creativity. Choosing the right ones take time, but trust me it's worth it. Here is why I like them. 

  1. They give you insight on what the character is going to believe--what do they see as the most important thing in life?
  2. They give you an idea of what the character might stand up for--what do they value--what matters most--what would they risk there life for?
  3. They give you a glimmer of what the character's attitude would be--how to they respond to different situations--what is their view of life--how do they let their emotions show through?
     For example, A character with the archetype VILLAIN would probably believe that they are invincible, stand up for what they want and makes them happy, and have a hostile attitude towards anyone who goes against them.

     Combining two or three adds layer as well. For my main character in my current book, I gave her the archetypes ANALYST, PERFECTIONIST, and ANTIHERO. These three words automaticly give you a feeling of this character. 

     Have you used Archetypes in your writing? How do you see their importance? 

     Check out this list of Archetypes to get your brain moving.
~Aly

Comments

  1. Victoria Grace Howell12/10/13, 12:11 AM

    Interesting. I'd like to see this concept fleshed out more. I have used archetypes before. :)

    Stori Tori's Blog

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alyson Schroll1/22/14, 1:14 PM

      Sometimes, archetypes is the key to a character, and other times, I have no problem creating a character. It all depends : )

      Delete
  2. Emily1/13/14, 6:49 PM

    I've been wanting a list of archetypes, but your link is taking me to blogger.com. Any ideas of where I should look/go?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alyson Schroll1/22/14, 1:13 PM

      Thanks for letting me know about the broken link. I had a glitch with blogger awhile ago and some things got messed up. I fixed it : )

      Delete

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