Romance Archetype What is an Archetype An archetype

Romance Archetype

What is an “Archetype”? An archetype is a character, image, symbol, theme, or plot that is repeated in literature, art, or real life across cultures and time periods

The Four Archetypes in Literature • Romance • Tragedy • Satire/Irony • Comedy

Romance Archetype An ideal world that represents life as we wish it could be Ø Innocence and purity of youth is more powerful than age and experience Ø Good triumphs over evil Ø

Typical Romance Plot A young hero/heroine embarks on a perilous journey to battle evil forces and save civilization (see notes on the hero’s journey)

Typical Romance Settings Timeless (mythic past or fantasy future) Ø Green and golden natural settings vs. dark and dismal fortresses of evil Ø Recurring images: never lands, idyllic and beautiful natural world, spring, water, fire, morning, caves, mountains Ø

Romance Characters: Hero/Heroine Young and completely innocent (lacking knowledge and experience) or totally good and brave Ø pure of heart and mind Ø represents the best of civilization Ø may be an orphan or come from mysterious origins Ø

Romance Villains Fallen hero, now dedicated to evil Ø Monster Ø Witch Ø Temptress Ø Any force of pure evil Ø

Other Romance Characters Wise teacher, mentor Ø Beautiful princess Ø Sidekicks (human, animal, or robot) Ø Animal with special powers Ø

Common Special Effects Magical weapons Ø Magical talismans Ø Clairvoyant dreams Ø Animals or objects with human traits Ø Heroic costumes that empower the wearer Ø Spells, potions, and sorcery Ø

Special Effects