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What is the Hero Archetype? Definition and Examples

by Fija Callaghan

Look, what’s that in the sky? A bird? A plane? No, it’s the hero archetype !! One of the most recognizable character archetypes in literature and film , heroes have captured our imagination for centuries. But it can, at times, be challenging to incorporate this archetype into your writing without turning it into a cliché.

It may surprise you to find that not all hero archetypes are cut from the same cloth. They can come from different walks of life and have different attitudes towards those around them. But , there are a few distinctive features that bind all heroes together. We’ll guide you through everything you need to know about this leading character archetype, with some helpful examples from literature.

What is a hero archetype?

The hero archetype is a character who acts as a force for the greater good, defending those weaker than themselves to the point of self sacrifice. They’re usually elevated above those around them in some way, whether that’s through a superpower or magical advantage, or through an exemplary personal trait such as great courage or compassion.

Traditionally, heroes are the protagonist of a story; the narrator follows them along their journey as the hero overcomes adversaries and protects those they love. Some of these protagonists set out to be heroes from the beginning, while others come to their hero-ness gradually as they’re shaped by their experiences.

We’ll look at the different forms a literary hero can take later in this article.

Characteristics of the hero archetype

Heroes can look very different across different genres and types of stories; however, there are a few key hero archetype characteristics that you’ll see recurring in this distinctive literary figure.

1. They’re loyal

Heroes are fiercely loyal to those they care about. For some, this might be a country, political system, or community; for others, it might only be one or two close family members or friends. Whether a hero’s personal battleground is large or small, they’re prepared to ride or die for the people they love.

For some hero archetypes, such as everyman heroes or anti-heroes (and we’ll look at both of those in more detail below), this loyalty can be the thing that pushes them from the role of survivor to true hero.

2. They have a code of honor

Heroes have a determined sense of what’s right and wrong. This isn’t a universal standard—what’s “wrong” can vary from one character to another. But within their own personal worldview, a hero archetype will have a clear line that they know they cannot cross.

For instance, maybe your hero is comfortable stealing from baddies, but they refuse to steal from those who are most in need. Or maybe your hero does some bad things in pursuit of justice, but they decided long ago that they won’t ever lie. Hero archetypes know exactly how far they’re willing to go, and what they need to do to hold themselves back from that line.

3. They have a particular strength that sets them apart

You can usually tell the hero of a story by their distinctive “superpower.” In many cases, this is an actual superpower or magical gift. They might be chosen or prophesied for a particular purpose, or come from a proud lineage of warriors.

However, your hero’s superpower could be something more benign: extraordinary courage, quick-thinking street skills, or a gift for making people laugh. This strength will, in some way, become essential on their hero’s journey and help them overcome obstacles along the way.

4. They stand up to injustice

One of the most admirable qualities of the hero archetype, heroes are always ready to stand up against perceived wrongdoing—whether this is a multinational conglomerate dumping toxic waste into a pristine ecosystem, or a bully on a playground. This can get them into trouble if they start a fight before they’re ready for it.

Sometimes, characters become heroes gradually over time. In this case, they might start out as too afraid to stand up to the injustices they see around them, but find the strength to do so later on. This can be an effective way to show your reader how much your character has grown.

5. They’re driven by something greater than themselves

A hero isn’t out for self-gain—even if they start off thinking they are. Their true goal will be about something more.

Maybe they’re driven by a need to repair a fundamentally corrupt society, or maybe they’re trying to protect a younger sibling from an outside enemy. It’s this ability to put the well-being of others before themselves—consciously or unconsciously—that makes them a hero.

Types of hero archetypes

Even though all true hero archetypes will share certain attributes, they can look quite different on the page depending on where they come from and where they ultimately end up in a story. Here are the specific types of hero archetype you’ll meet in literature and film.

The classical hero

The classical hero is a natural-born leader. They may not be the strongest or the fastest kid on the block, but they have a charismatic je ne sais quoi that makes people trust them and want to follow them. These heroes will usually have a strong moral compass and exhibit noble qualities such as courage, integrity, and compassion.

Often these heroes are of noble birth, but they can also just be well-loved people who always try to do the right thing. King Arthur is an example of this hero archetype.

The everyman hero

The everyman hero is a regular Joe (or Jane) who is thrown into extraordinary circumstances. They’re not born into great wealth or privilege, and they’re not gifted with magical abilities or extranatural intelligence. They look and act like anyone you might see walking down the street—any one of us—and yet, through their hero’s journey , they find they have the capacity for heroic deeds within them.

Readers particularly love everyman heroes because they show us that in times of crisis, we can rise to be heroes too. Simon Lewis from The Mortal Instruments is an example of an everyman hero archetype.

The epic or super hero

The epic hero or superhero archetype may have exploded onto cinema screens in recent years, but their roots run all the way back to the classical heroes of ancient mythology. They have extraordinary abilities and often find themselves pitted against equally extraordinary adversaries.

Unlike the everyman archetypal hero, these hero archetypes are completely removed from our own way of living. They allow readers a glimpse into another world, knowing that no matter how much danger the hero finds themselves in, everything will be okay in the end. Achilles from Greek mythology and Superman from DC comics are examples of epic heroes.

The anti-hero

The anti-hero archetype is a character who doesn’t fit the mold of a traditional hero in some way. Often, anti-heroes have personality traits more commonly associated with a villain , but they use those traits for good instead of evil.

An anti-hero might be broody, sarcastic, or short-tempered; they might lie or cheat their way through conflicts in pursuit of their goal. Anti-heroes are relatable and endearing, and readers love seeing their dynamic character arcs as they learn to fight for what’s right. Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise and Batman from DC comics are examples of anti-hero archetypes.

The tragic hero

The tragic hero archetype is a hero that’s held back or brought down by a deep personal flaw. This might be something like excessive pride, impatience, ambition, or fear. The hero’s tragic flaw keeps them from realizing their full potential and, in many cases, leads to their downfall.

Sometimes, a tragic hero can overcome their flaw through the choices they make on their journey. For example, Dickens’ character Ebeneezer Scrooge has one deep and fatal flaw: his avarice. The story makes it clear what will happen to him if he allows this flaw to devour him. Ultimately, however, he’s able to grow and dodge that fate in favor of a happy ending. Shakespeare’s Macbeth is another example of the tragic hero archetype.

Examples of hero archetype characters from literature

Let’s look at some popular examples of heroes from our favorite stories.

Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the main character of the series by the same name, is a pretty classic hero figure. While he has certain everyman qualities that make him relatable to young readers, he’s also the focus of a magical prophecy and gifted with the bravery, nobility, and leadership skills that make him a hero others are willing to live and die for.

Despite his underdog upbringing in the ordinary world, Harry uses his heroism to inspire others and make his world a better place.

Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman encapsulates many of the classic superhero trappings, with one key difference: she’s a dame. In 1941, when she first appeared in the pages of DC comics, this was a pretty big deal. Superheroes weren’t a new thing at this point, but Wonder Woman taught young girls that they could be powerful, too.

Inspired by classical mythology, this hero archetype brought epic-scale battles to living color in a way that was approachable and relatable to modern readers.

Odysseus was the epic hero in the mythological cycle surrounding The Odyssey , The Iliad , and other works of the time. To this day, readers still love the range of retellings about Odysseus and his friends overcoming obstacles, conquering beasties, and finding their way home.

His stories formed the basis of much of the adventure genre, and you can find echoes of this hero archetype all across literature.

Tristran Thorn

The protagonist of Neil Gaiman’s Stardust and the film of the same name is a less obvious hero than some of these others; he grows from a curious and lovesick boy into a brave warrior and legend of his people.

His journey has elements in common with that of both Harry Potter and King Arthur; he’s born unknowingly into an extraordinary heritage, goes on a quest to secure something precious, and comes into his heroic nature along the way.

The hero archetype represents the best that we can be

Heroes are some of our favorite characters, in real life and in the world of fiction. Classical storytelling has often revolved around heroic figures because they show the reader or the listener that anyone is capable of these heroic traits—even if you’re not the hidden son of a king or born into magical powers. Now, you can use this story archetype to help inspire others.

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The Hero’s Journey Archetype

This essay about the hero’s journey archetype explores a narrative framework that reflects the stages of growth and self-discovery a protagonist undergoes in becoming a hero. It begins with a call to adventure, leading to trials and a crisis that test the hero’s resolve. The narrative arc is universal, appearing in stories across cultures, and symbolizes the transformative process individuals face in overcoming challenges. Through the guidance of mentors and the acquisition of new knowledge, the hero triumphantly returns, transformed and ready to benefit the community. This archetype not only shapes our favorite tales but also mirrors our own experiences of resilience and redemption, teaching us about the potential for growth and the importance of sharing wisdom for the collective good.

How it works

The concept of the hero’s journey archetype, a narrative formula that outlines the steps a protagonist must take on their path to becoming a hero, has captivated storytellers and audiences alike for centuries. This timeless archetype, deeply embedded in the human psyche, resonates across cultures, offering a mirror to our deepest fears and highest aspirations.

At its core, the hero’s journey is a metaphor for the transformative process of growth and self-discovery. It begins with the Call to Adventure, a pivotal moment when the hero is invited to leave their familiar world behind and step into the unknown.

This leap of faith is not without its hesitations; the hero often experiences a Refusal of the Call, a period of doubt or fear of the unknown. However, with the guidance of a Mentor, the hero gains the courage to cross the Threshold, marking the official start of their adventure into the uncharted.

What makes the hero’s journey so compelling is its universal applicability. Whether it’s the epic tale of Odysseus navigating the perils of the sea, Luke Skywalker battling the forces of darkness, or even a young woman overcoming personal trials to find her voice, the essence of the journey remains the same. Each story unfolds in a series of challenges and trials that test the hero’s resolve, leading to a moment of Crisis or supreme ordeal. It is in the heart of darkness that the hero must confront their greatest fear and, in doing so, discover their true strength. This moment of death and rebirth is a powerful symbol of transformation, reflecting our own experiences of overcoming obstacles and emerging stronger.

The hero’s journey doesn’t end with the triumph over adversity. The Return with the Elixir signifies the hero’s journey back to the ordinary world, now transformed by the insights gained on their quest. The hero returns not just as a victor but as a bearer of new knowledge or power, poised to improve the world around them. This return to balance, where the wisdom acquired is shared or used to better the community, is a crucial aspect of the journey, emphasizing the importance of growth not just for personal gain but for the collective good.

The enduring appeal of the hero’s journey lies in its profound simplicity and depth. It is a reflection of our own life’s journey, encapsulating the essence of human experience – the struggle, the fall, the rise, and ultimately, the transformation. By identifying with the hero, we are reminded of our own potential for resilience and redemption. We see our struggles mirrored in their trials and find hope in their victories. The hero’s journey is more than just a narrative structure; it’s a blueprint for living courageously, offering insights into the art of overcoming and the beauty of becoming.

In analyzing the hero’s journey, we uncover layers of meaning in our favorite stories and perhaps, in our own lives. It teaches us that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, every failure a stepping stone to success, and every ending a chance for a new beginning. As we navigate our own journeys, the archetype of the hero’s journey serves as a reminder that within each of us lies a hero, waiting to embark on an adventure, confront the darkness, and return transformed.

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Breaking Down the Character Archetypes of the Hero’s Journey

You’ve  read about George  Lucas’s  use of Joseph  Campbell’s Monomyth found in his 1949 book, A Hero with a Thousand Faces ,  which   is  a  common  narrative pattern found in many stories from many different cultures worldwide. This narrative journey typically involves several character archetypes that affect the  hero’s journey from beginning to end.

After the successful debut of  Star Wars   and  Lucas’s  discussions on using  Campbell’s work as inspiration for his space opera, many producers, development executives, filmmakers, and screenwriters have explored the Monomyth with deeper and simplified approaches.

Christopher Vogler's Interpretation of the Hero's Journey

When Christopher Vogler, a development executive and screenwriter at Disney, was inspired by Joseph  Campbell's  concept of the story monomyth, he crafted a seven-page memo for  Disney's  development team and incoming screenwriters.

This memo,  A Practical Guide to Joseph  Cambell’s  The Hero with a Thousand Faces , laid the groundwork for what would later become  Vogler's  1992 book,  The  Writer's  Journey: Mythic Structure for Storytellers and Screenwriters . In this book, Vogler expanded upon  Campbell’s  ideas.

He adapted  Campbell's  mythical story structure into twelve distinct stages (from  Campbell’s  initial seventeen). Our concise interpretations of these stages include:

• The Ordinary World : We see the  hero's   normal  life at the start of the story before the adventure begins.
• Call to Adventure : The hero faces an event, conflict, problem, or challenge that makes them begin their adventure.
• Refusal of the Call : The hero initially refuses the adventure because of hesitation, fear, insecurity, or  any  other issues.
• Meeting the Mentor : The hero encounters a mentor who can give them advice, wisdom, information, or items that ready them for the journey ahead.
• Crossing the Threshold : The hero leaves their ordinary world for the first time and crosses the threshold into adventure.
• Tests, Allies, and Enemies : The hero learns the  rules of the new world  and endures tests, meets friends, and comes face-to-face with enemies.
• The Approach : The initial plan to take on the central conflict begins, but setbacks cause the hero to try a new approach or adopt new ideas.
• The Ordeal : Things go wrong, and added conflict  is introduced . The hero experiences more difficult hurdles and obstacles, some of which may lead to a life crisis.
• The Reward : After surviving The Ordeal, the hero seizes the sword — a reward that  they've  earned that allows them to take on the  biggest  conflict. It may be a physical item or piece of knowledge or wisdom that will help them persevere.
• The Road Back : The hero sees the light at the end of the tunnel, but they are about to face even more tests and challenges.
• The Resurrection : The climax.  The hero faces a final test, using everything they have learned to take on the conflict once and for all.
• The Return : The hero  brings  their knowledge or the  " elixir "  back  to the ordinary world.

Within these stages are character archetypes that help to shape the  hero’s   journey, and their eventual character arc throughout the story.

Read More: Exploring the Twelve Stages of the  Hero’s  Journey

'Tron: Legacy' (2010)

What Are Character Archetypes?

A character archetype is a common  recurring  representation of a character that embodies a set of universal and recognizable traits or characteristics. These archetypes  are seen  throughout literature, film, and other storytelling mediums—and they resonate with audiences because they  are based  on  common human experiences or cultural norms.

Archetypes work well because they are instantly recognizable to readers and audiences.  For writers, character archetypes can  be adapted and molded with ease  during character development.

Character archetypes are not specific characters in a story but  rather broad categories or templates that individual characters can be based on or inspired by. They represent typical roles characters play in the narrative, and their actions and motivations are often predictable based on the archetype they represent.

However, writers can also choose to subvert those expectations to create a more dynamic character , as well as  introduce much-needed twists and turns within the story.

Read More: 10 Character Archetypes in Comedies

'The Goonies' (1950)

The benefits of using character archetypes include:

• Universality : Archetypes are universally understood and have similar meanings across cultures and historical contexts.  This  can  especially  help in the cinematic realm  as  movies  are released  in multiple countries and languages.
• Symbolism : These character traits can symbolize a particular  aspect of  human experience or life.  Once again, symbolism is identifiable across many cultures.
• Predictability :  Because they  are based  on common patterns,   their behaviors and roles in stories can often be anticipated .  Because of that anticipation, writers can choose between subverting those expectations or using the predictability of the archetypes to service the story and protagonist with ease.  
• Variability : While archetypes are typical patterns, they allow for variations and depth, meaning a single archetype can manifest in different ways across various stories, allowing writers  can  adapt these traits to any character. 

Character archetypes can  be used   as tools  to tell a compelling and universal story. 

'Finding Nemo' (2003)

What Are the Character Archetypes in the Hero's Journey?

Many archetypes in the hero's journey—the threshold guardian, the herald, the shapeshifter, the trickster, the ally, and the tempter/temptress—are more defined in later interpretations and expansions of Campbell's  work. People like Vogler applied his theories to modern storytelling so writers, readers, and audiences could more easily understand the dynamics of  Campbell’s  monomyth.

Here,  we’ll break down the main character archetypes in the hero's journey utilized in  Campbell’s  Monomyth and  Vogler’s  expanded breakdowns and interpretations. 

The hero is the  central figure of the story  (protagonist) who undergoes a journey, facing challenges and transformations.  The hero often starts as an ordinary person who  is  then  called  to adventure. They are present throughout the  entire   journey , from the ordinary world to the return with newfound knowledge or power.

Luke Skywalker (Star Wars), Indiana Jones ( Raiders of the Lost Arc ), Katniss Everdeen ( The Hunger Games ), Barbie ( Barbie ), and Harry Potter (the  Harry Potter series) are perfect examples of the hero character archetypes. You can include any protagonist within a story that goes on a physical or emotional journey.

As mentioned above, the hero in the  hero’s  journey usually begins their adventure within their ordinary world.  This   offers readers and audiences the chance  to relate to the protagonist, empathize with their plight, and see the beginning of their character arc.  

Read More: Why the 'Barbie' Movie is the Perfect Example of the Hero’s Journey

The shadow is the main antagonist of the story. The shadow reflects the darker aspects of the hero, sometimes represented as the mirror image (opposite) of the hero and their beliefs. Overall, they are the antagonist or villains  present throughout the whole  story in varied ways. 

Read More:  15 Types of Villains Screenwriters Need to Know  

The shadow can also be represented  in metaphorical terms. If a  story’s hero journey is the protagonist dealing with alcoholism or addiction, those vices can serve as the shadow/antagonist/villain.

The quintessential shadows in cinema include characters like Darth Vader ( Star Wars ), Voldemort (the Harry Potter series), and Sauron ( The Lord of the Rings series). But you can also find a less villainous shadow that takes on a lighter antagonistic role without purely evil intentions.

A perfect example of that would be  Principal Rooney in  Ferris Bueller’s Day Off .  He  doesn’t  have evil intentions like a villain does. However, he is the shadow or mirror image of Ferris Bueller. Ferris believes in freedom  an expression . Rooney believes in order and control of others.

'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' (1986)

This character serves as a guide or teacher to the hero, providing them with advice, training, or magical assistance.  The mentor is often a wise or experienced figure, although there have been literary and cinematic variances.

Look no further than the likes of Obi-Wan Kenobi ( Star Wars ), Yoda ( The Empire Strikes Back ), Mr. Miyagi ( The Karate Kid ), and Gandalf ( The Lord of the Rings series ) as core examples of the mentor.

'The Karate Kid' (1984)

Allies are friends or companions who support and accompany the hero through their journey. They often complement the  hero's  skills and help them face challenges.

In  Star Wars , the allies of Luke Skywalker include Han Solo, Chewbacca, and the droids. In  The Lord of the Rings series , the fellowship companions of Frodo encompass this character archetype. You can also look to any sidekick-type character as the perfect example of an ally:

• Goose in  Top Gun
• Patrick in  Spongebob Squarepants
• Ron in  Harry Potter
• Billy in  Big
• Julie in  Lady Bird
• Rod in  Get Out
• Ned in the  Spider-Man  movies
• Sam in  The Lord of the Rings
• Short Round in  Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom

Allies can also be characters who  aren’t  as close to the hero but offer  some  type of help along the way.

'Lady Bird' (2017)

The Threshold Guardian

These characters serve as obstacles the hero must overcome or circumvent on their journey. They are not always enemies but are present within the story to test the hero and give them the belief and ability to continue on their adventure.

Little John in the  Robin Hood   stories is initially the threshold guardian of the Sherwood Forest. 

He eventually becomes an ally to Robin. But he’s initially a threshold guardian. 

You can turn to   Monthy Python and the Holy Grail  as well. The Black Knight  isn’t  necessarily King  Arthur’s  foe. However,  he’s there to defend the bridge at all costs.

 The Herald

The herald is the character that initiates the call to adventure, pushing the hero to  action,  or providing the news or event that triggers their journey.

In  Star Wars , R2-D2 is the herald of  Luke’s  journey because he delivers the message from Princess Leia  to him . If Luke  doesn’t  see that message, he  doesn’t  show it to Obi-Wan Kenobi. And if Obi-Wan  doesn’t  see that message, he  doesn’t  convince Luke to come with him to join the Rebellion. 

In  Barbie , Weird Barbie is the one who tells Barbie the truth about what she is going through and what she must do to seek out the answers she needs. 

The herald can be a  major  character, a supporting character, or even a minor character. In  The Lord of the Rings , Gandalf is both mentor  and  herald, as he is the one who appears to Frodo, telling him he must bring the ring to Mordor. 

The Shapeshifter

This  archetype's loyalty and role are often unclear, and they can serve as an ally or an enemy to the hero. Sometimes both. Their unpredictable nature adds complexity to the story, usually resulting in twists and turns within the plot.

Snape in the  Harry Potter series is one of the greatest shapeshifters in literature and film. His motives are unknown, mistaken, and hidden. He acts as both a shadow to Harry and later an ally.

Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean   series is another  great  example, embodying the role of an unpredictable ally whose loyalty is often questionable. Yes, he can  be  looked  upon as an antihero protagonist of the movie. However, the clear hero of the story is Will.

'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl' (2003)

The Trickster

The trickster usually adds  levity  to the story through comic relief. They can be allies or enemies, but typically  they  cause trouble for both.

Jack Sparrow falls under this character archetype as well. But a better example may be Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe   movies. He embodies the definition of a trickster.  He brings more comic relief to the  movies   after his initial first appearance in  Thor .

Perhaps the better example would be Genie in  Disney's   Aladdin . He uses his powers for humorous and unexpected effects, often bending the rules and adding a lighthearted element to the story.

Tempter/Temptress

This archetype can be of any gender and represents temptation or distraction that diverts the hero from their path.

Catwoman in the  Batman  movies often plays the role of a temptress to Batman, combining allure with a morally ambiguous character.

Many of the Bond Girls in the   James Bond  films serve as temptresses, combining allure and mystery and often leading Bond into dangerous situations.

The Indiana Jones variation would be Elsa from  Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade . 

One of the best examples of the Tempter playing a more pivotal role in the story is Avery Tolar in The Firm .  He’s  a senior partner at  the law firm  Bendini, Lambert & Locke. His role is crucial in seducing the protagonist, Mitch McDeere, into the luxurious and corrupt world of the law firm.

He has a charismatic and persuasive personality. He mentors Mitch and exposes him to the high-stakes, high-reward lifestyle  that the  firm offers, including wealth, prestige, and power.  Tolar's  character is complex. He is a nuanced character who embodies the charm and allure  that the  firm uses to entice and trap its young associates.

His influence on Mitch is significant, as he represents the allure of success and the moral compromises that often accompany it.  Tolar's  character effectively demonstrates how  the tempter archetype can be used  to explore themes of corruption, temptation, and ethical dilemmas in a narrative.

The character archetypes  found  within the h ero’s  journey offer writers the ability to take universal character templates and mold them to fit into stories that embrace the monomyth structure or use it as a starting point to tell a compelling and engaging story. 

Use them in whatever way  you’d like. They can encompass the more traditional definition within your story, or you can use these archetypes to set up expectations and later subvert those expectations to create a more enthralling and surprising plot.

Read More: Is Joseph Campbell's "The Hero's Journey" Dead in Screenwriting Today?

CHECK OUT OUR PREPARATION NOTES SO YOU START YOUR STORY OFF ON THE RIGHT TRACK!

Ken Miyamoto has worked in the film industry for nearly two decades, most notably as a studio liaison for Sony Studios and then as a script reader and story analyst for Sony Pictures.

He has many studio meetings under his belt as a produced screenwriter, meeting with the likes of Sony, Dreamworks, Universal, Disney, Warner Brothers, as well as many production and management companies. He has had a previous development deal with Lionsgate, as well as multiple writing assignments, including the produced miniseries Blackout, starring Anne Heche, Sean Patrick Flanery, Billy Zane, James Brolin, Haylie Duff, Brian Bloom, Eric La Salle, and Bruce Boxleitner, the feature thriller Hunter’s Creed, and many Lifetime thrillers. Follow Ken on Twitter @KenMovies and Instagram @KenMovies76

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Who are Heroes? An Analysis of the Literary Hero and an Interpretation of the Modern Hero

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Heroes appear in literature and reality in various forms. Given the changing times, the definition of heroism has evolved to incorporate modern societal values, but remains built on a structural foundation of moral righteousness prevalent in philosophy. Utilizing Immanuel Kant, David Hume, and John Stuart Mill’s philosophical evaluations of moral righteousness and Joseph Campbell’s The Hero with a Thousand Faces, this thesis seeks to understand the structural components to heroism both in theoretical and practical applications. Analysis of J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series will provide distinctions between traditional and modern heroism as well as highlight developments of hero archetypes. Through understanding these idealized hero archetypes in literature, this thesis will further examine heroism and its manifestation in the modern world through case studies of activists, whistleblowers, doctors, teachers, mentors, and good Samaritans – ultimately bringing light to the compassionate, empathic, and inspirational qualities prevalent across heroic figures.

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The Hero Archetype in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart

Şule İşleyen

The hero archetype is one of the most recurrent character archetypes in the world literature. There is a universal pattern regarding hero myths even though they were developed by groups or individuals who did not have even the slightest direct cultural contact with each other. Although there are centuries between Hercules and Batman or Artemis and Katniss Everdeen, it is remarkable that heroes and heroines have a lot of characteristics in common. Some of these characteristics might include superhuman strength, determination, exceptional bravery, rapid rise to power and hard-won triumphs. Okonkwo, the protagonist of Things Fall Apart, does not have a lucky start in life as son of Unoka who has spent his whole life in poverty and never participated in tribal wars. However, Okonkwo is so strong-willed that he not only becomes a prosperous man and but also displays incredible prowess in tribal wars.  Thanks to his achievements, he becomes known as one of the greatest men of his time. Therefore, this study aims at highlighting the fact that Okonkwo displays some of the most common characteristics of the hero archetype.

archetypes , heroes , heroines , hero archetype , kahramanlar

• Achebe, C. (1959), Things Fall Apart, New York: Anchor Books Press.Campbell, J. (1990), The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Novato (CA): n.p. Print.Campbell, J. Bill, M. Betty S.F. (1988), The Power of Myth. New York: Doubleday, Print.Feist, J. Feist, G. J. (2006), Theories of Personality. Boston: Mass: McGraw-Hill.Frye, N., & Macpherson, J. (2004), Biblical and Classical Myths: The Mythological Framework of Western Culture. Toronto: University of Toronto Press. Henderson, J. L. ARAS Vol.1: Archetypal Symbolism. Date of access: 15. 27. 2017, address: https://aras.org/about/what-are-archetypesHenderson, J. L. (2013), Ancient Myths and Modern Man. In Man and His Symbols (pp. 96–156). essay, Bowdon, Cheshire, England: Stellar Classics.Jung, C. G. (2014), The Archetypes and The Collective Unconscious. London: Routledge, Print.Jung, C. G., & Jaffé, A. (2013), Memories, Dreams, Reflections. United States: Stellar Classics.

The hero archetype is one of the most recurrent character archetypes in the world literature. There is a universal pattern regarding hero myths even though they were developed by groups or individuals who did not have even the slightest direct cultural contact with each other. Although there are centuries between Hercules and Batman or Artemis and Katniss Everdeen, it is remarkable that heroes and heroines have a lot of characteristics in common. Some of these characteristics might include superhuman strength, determination, exceptional bravery, rapid rise to power and hard-won triumphs. Okonkwo, the protagonist of  Things Fall Apart,  does not have a lucky start in life as son of Unoka who has spent his whole life in poverty and never participated in tribal wars. However, Okonkwo is so strong-willed that he not only becomes a prosperous man and but also displays incredible prowess in tribal wars.  Thanks to his achievements, he becomes known as one of the greatest men of his time. Therefore, this study aims at highlighting the fact that Okonkwo displays some of the most common characteristics of the hero archetype.

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The Myth of Hero, morphology and semantic of heroic archetype

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