An ideal example or model of a person from which similar characters are copied

or based

Archetype:

There are many possible archetypes; this is only a partial list.

It is possible for characters to fit more than one archetype.

Hero/Heroine: protagonist, positive qualities, usually begins as non-heroic

Faithful Companion: Stays loyal to a person, cause, or idea; sidekick

Villain: antagonist; evil character who seeks to destroy or trap the hero

Trickster: mischievous figure who makes up for physical weakness with cunning and wit

Earth Mother: talking to Earth as though it is a character

Innocent: an inexperienced person exposed to the evils in the world; spontaneous, trusting,

child-like, dependent but optimistic

Caretaker: altruist; moved by compassion, generosity, and selflessness to help others

Outsider/Outcast/Loner: banished from a social group for a crime or just wants to be left alone

Rugged Individualist: braves loneliness and isolation to seek out new paths; relies on personal strengths & merits for survival

Rebel: Anarchist, revolutionary, political protester, nonconformist; often opposes majority

& fights for their cause