Creation Myths and Archetypes

Now that you have thought about the types of characters in movies, stories, and in your life, you will need to consider characters as archetypes. Chances are good that most people have the same basic definition of a “hero” or a “villain.” In this sense, an archetype is considered an ideal model of something.

As you read the fairytale “Cinderella,” you meet the universal character of the wicked stepmother archetype. Her behaviors, dialogue, and actions make you view her as evil. The Fairy Godmother also exists as another archetype in the fairytale as she magically gives Cinderella her every wish. A hero in the form of a Prince Charming is also an archetype in the story. He saves Cinderella from a life with the Wicked Stepmother. Have you ever considered why this story is still told? The story has archetypal characters and a universal theme, and human beings appreciate the predictability of the characters’ situations.

In art, consider the image of a damsel in distress who is saved from a dragon by the knight on a white horse. Perhaps you are even familiar with the archetypal star-crossed lovers? Because of common archetypes, we know that the star-crossed lovers’ story does not usually end well for them. Comic books commonly feature superheroes with special talents and abilities.

Character Archetypes

There are common character archetypes found in literature. Look through this interactivity to learn more about archetypes. Click the player button to begin.

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Theme Archetypes

Themes are statements that explain the message the author wants to express. The themes associated with American literature fall under thematic archetypes. Learn more about archetype themes in this interactivity. Click the player button to begin.

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Character and Theme Archetypes Review

You have learned about character and theme archetypes. Now, check your knowledge in the non-graded interactivity. Click the player button to get started.

Archetypes in Native American Creation Myths

A key to understanding literature, art, and the world around you is to recognize archetypes. These archetypes are repeated throughout human history, regardless of time or place. Archetypes allow people of different times and backgrounds to relate to a story or concept because archetypes are models formed by common human experiences and ideas. Writers and artists use archetypes to connect the audience to their intended message. By reading many texts, you can practice how to determine the writer’s purpose in using archetypes and the related theme of the work.

Native American tribes have a variety of creation myths, as do different cultures and sacred texts around the world. Remember that the purpose of a creative myth is to explain the origins of a culture or group. Many origins will be explained in the following creation myth.