The Eight Character Archetypes of the Hero’s Journey

At the heart of many stories lies the Hero’s Journey, a narrative framework first popularised by Joseph Campbell. This universal mythological pattern transcends cultural boundaries, resonating in stories from ancient myths to modern blockbusters. It outlines a transformative adventure where a protagonist embarks on a quest, faces challenges, undergoes personal growth, and returns home changed, bringing wisdom and insight to their community.

In this journey we see some common archetypes that set the stage for a story. 

What is a Character Archetype?

Character archetypes are fundamental and recurring patterns of traits, roles, and relationships in stories. Character archetypes represent timeless templates that storytellers use to create compelling and relatable characters. By recognising these archetypes, writers can tap into the collective unconscious, crafting characters whose journeys and transformations reflect fundamental aspects of the human experience.

The 8 Essential Character Archetypes

Each archetype brings its own unique perspective and contribution to the protagonist’s journey. To further understand the archetypes in the Hero’s Journey, let’s break down each one: 

1. The Hero: The Central Figure of the Journey

The Hero stands as the focal point of the narrative, embodying courage, resilience, and the determination to overcome adversity. Whether it’s King Arthur pulling Excalibur from the stone or Katniss Everdeen volunteering as tribute in “The Hunger Games,” the Hero’s journey epitomises the universal quest for meaning and purpose. These characters are at the centre of the stage and through them we often learn the most important lessons. 

2. Mentor: The Guide and Teacher

Guiding the Hero along their path is the Mentor, a figure of wisdom and experience. Think of Yoda mentoring Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars” or Merlin guiding young King Arthur in “The Once and Future King.” The Mentor imparts knowledge, offers crucial advice, and empowers the Hero to face their trials with greater understanding.

3. Ally: The Supportive Companion

Beside the Hero walks the Ally, a loyal companion whose unwavering support and camaraderie bolster the Hero’s spirit. Samwise Gamgee in “The Lord of the Rings” exemplifies this archetype, standing by Frodo Baggins through the darkest of journeys, proving that true friendship is a steadfast beacon in times of turmoil.

4. Herald: The Caller to Adventure

Before the Hero’s journey can begin, the Herald announces the call to adventure, igniting the protagonist’s quest for growth and transformation. In “The Matrix,” Morpheus beckons Neo to embrace his destiny as the One, setting in motion a series of trials that will test his courage and reshape his understanding of reality.

5. Trickster: The Catalyst for Change

Enter the Trickster, a figure of mischief and disruption who challenges the status quo and pushes the Hero’s evolution. A notable subset of the Trickster archetype is the Jester, who adds levity and satire to the narrative. The Jester entertains and challenges norms through humour and wit, often serving as a catalyst for change in unexpected ways. Characters embodying the Jester archetype may appear frivolous or absurd on the surface but play crucial roles in exposing truths, provoking thought, and prompting the Hero to reconsider their assumptions.

The Mad Hatter from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a perfect example of the Jester. Known for his eccentricity and nonsensical behaviour, the Mad Hatter disrupts Alice’s journey with his whimsical tea party and riddles. He challenges conventions and introduces Alice to the absurdities of Wonderland, embodying the Jester’s role as a disruptor of norms.

6. Shapeshifter: The Ambiguous Figure

The Shapeshifter, a character whose loyalties and motives remain elusive. Severus Snape in the “Harry Potter” series embodies this archetype, veiling his true intentions behind a facade of ambiguity, keeping both protagonist and audience guessing until the narrative’s climax reveals his complex role in shaping the Hero’s destiny.

7. Guardian: The Protector and Challenger

No Hero’s journey is without obstacles, and the Guardian stands as a formidable challenge that tests the Hero’s resolve. In Egyptian mythology, the Sphinx is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human (often depicted as a pharaoh). The Sphinx is renowned for its riddles, challenging those who seek passage or wisdom. The most famous riddle posed by the Sphinx is found in the legend of Oedipus from Greek mythology, where it asks: “What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three legs in the evening?” This riddle serves as a test of intellect and wisdom, challenging Oedipus to solve it to pass safely.

8.  Shadow: The Dark Opponent

Finally, looming large in the Hero’s journey is the Shadow, an embodiment of the protagonist’s darkest fears, flaws, and vulnerabilities. Darth Vader in “Star Wars” symbolises the external and internal conflicts Luke Skywalker must confront to fulfil his destiny as a Jedi Knight, illustrating how the Hero’s greatest adversary often lies within.

Discover More About the Archetypes 

The exploration of character archetypes within the Hero’s Journey reveals a rich tapestry of universal themes and narrative structures. Character archetypes, such as the Hero, Mentor, Ally, Herald, Trickster, Shapeshifter, Guardian, and Shadow, serve as fundamental building blocks in storytelling. The Hero’s Journey and its character archetypes remind us that every journey, whether mythical or personal, is an odyssey of growth and opportunity for adventure. 

Interested in learning more about the archetypes? You can find out all about The Jester from books and film, or dive into the rich history surrounding these motley figures.