Archetypes
A mini-series on Jungian archetypes in fiction, particularly as they are portrayed in fantasy novels and popular movies.
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Archetypes: Ruler
Power is not everything, it is the only thing. Taking responsibility not only for his own life, but the lives of others, the Ruler is one of the most recognizable and easily corruptible Jungian archetypes. This is the archetype of power, plain and simple, but what comes with power is a dangerous tightrope walk between order and…
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Archetypes: Magician
Rules of reality crumble before some. If you’ve ever read fantasy, you know the Magician. Catalysts for change, Magicians operate on a plane above everyone else, able to conjure outcomes and affect change in ways that hoist them from mortal to magi in the eyes of the populace. As I have mentioned in prior posts in this…
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Archetypes: Sage
All the books in all the world could not contain all there is to know. Benevolent mentors and custodians of wisdom are some of the hallmark characters of fantasy. Part mystic, part genius, the Sage is an essential driver of the Hero’s Journey, delegating the task of changing the world to their often younger, more…
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Archetypes: Jester
You only live once, and life’s not worth living without a little fun. In fact, if you happen to be the Jester, present-minded joy is your first and primary concern. As a Jungian archetype, the Jester takes a break from the often romantic or courageous ideals of his cousins, displaying a masterful use of humor to…
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Archetypes: Creator
If it can be imagined, it can be created. This is the motto of the Creator, the Jungian archetype driven by the need to see dream become reality, while providing structure to the world. They are the great architects: the artists, the scientists, the gods and goddesses. Their mind is always questioning, tinkering, and entertaining…
Ariel Hudnall 