Character Archetypes in Narrative

Introduction

• Discussion about favorite movie characters.
• Concept of character archetypes proposed by Vladimir Propp.
  • Only eight types of characters underlying diverse personalities.
• Brief mention of Patreon launch.

Narrative Structure

• Reference to three-act narrative structure:
  • Beginning, Middle, End.
  • Todorov: Equilibrium, Disruption, New Equilibrium.
• Main question: How do narratives transition between states?

Vladimir Propp's Character Archetypes

Eight Character Types:

1. Hero

   • Usually the protagonist.
   • Aims to repair the disruption.
   • Example: Classic hero attributes, but can be any character trying to fix a problem.

2. Villain

   • Causes disruption or opposes the hero.
   • Can be a person (jealous boyfriend) or a force (asteroid).

3. Donor

   • Provides essential aid to the hero (often magical or significant item).
   • Example: "Your father's lightsaber."

4. Dispatcher

   • Sends the hero on their quest, highlights the hero's journey.
   • Example: Call to action that makes the disruption the hero's issue.

5. Helper (Sidekick)

   • Assists the hero and may save them at a crucial moment.
   • Example: Samwise Gamgee in "The Lord of the Rings."

6. False Hero

   • Appears to support the hero but ultimately disrupts their progress.
   • Example: A character who fails to help or sabotages efforts.

7. Princess

   • Represents a reward for the hero or someone needing rescue.
   • Not necessarily a literal princess.

8. Princess's Father

   • Rewards the hero upon completing their goal.
   • Ensures the resolution is satisfying.

Application of Propp's Theory

• Not all eight archetypes need to appear in every narrative.
• Characters can fulfill multiple roles:
  • Example: Obi-Wan in "Star Wars" as both donor and dispatcher.
• Consideration of modern narratives and evolving character roles.
• Importance of identifying character types:
  • Ask about the character’s purpose and the impact of their absence.
  • Separate characterization from narrative purpose.

Conclusion

• Illustrated through examples (e.g., Iron Man's roles in different narratives).
• Emphasis on understanding narrative through character functions.
• Reminder about Patreon for community support and additional resources.

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• Encouragement to think about characters from earlier discussion and their roles in narratives.
• Call to action for viewer engagement and feedback.