May 10, 2021
7 Story Archetypes
There could be millions of different ways to tell a story. However, when we look at history, films, theaters, literature, it all revolves around some specific archetypes. The details may change, but the basis remains more or less the same.
While studying Content Strategy, we had some interesting lectures that covered storytelling aspects. Let’s have a closer look at what we have learned in our lecture.
1- Overcoming the monster
When we say “monster”, it doesn’t have to be a giant, red and dangerous creature. The monster could be within us to overcome. What matters is showing courage and strength to defeat it. That is the important part we focus on.
2- From beggar to king
Chris Hofbauer explained this archetype with this sentence in his presentation: “The longing to become what you really are.” Every non-fiction success story actually consists of this story archetype. What you consider as beggar and king totally depends on your perspective. It could be someone who drops her corporate career and starts planting tomatoes in the countryside or someone who goes from being homeless to be an intern in a global firm.
3- The quest
This type is all about achieving a certain goal, with many obstacles and/or temptations along the road. It is like going through certain series of adventures and overcoming challenges along the way to complete something.
4- Journey and return
Our hero goes into a strange place and comes back home with experiences and lessons she learned. Of course, she gains it through overcoming the challenges and threats that are unique to that certain place.
5- Rebirth
In this archetype, the main character goes through something that forces him to change his ways and become a better person. The focus must be on the transformation of that character.
6- Comedy
The name might mislead us to think that this type is about being “funny”. In fact, it is about a story that involves; a light and humorous character, a conflict and a happy and uplifting ending. A lot of romantic films also fall into this category.
7- Tragedy
Here, our character has a major flaw or makes a great mistake which leads to not so much a happy ending. The focus is around that mistake and the inevitable consequences that come with it.
If you gain some knowledge on these archetypes, you can be more conscious when telling your story and enable yourself to deliver your message more clearly.
