Archetypes

Who Am I:

"Fear not! I will guide and help the hero as they take on their quest. I may be older, wiser, bearded, magical, or perhaps a small green man with a staff. Whatever my form, it is my job to prepare the hero for a quest. I must challenge and encourage them, but push them to his or her best self."

Who Am I:

"A sidekick, friend, or supporter is the role I play. I’m ready to help the hero with whatever they need. I may know the hero before the quest, or we might meet on the journey. We might even start out as rivals but eventually join forces! The hero and I may have our disagreements, but ultimately I’m on their team."

Who Am I:

"I challenge you to a duel! I’m the hero’s first challenge. I “guard” the threshold into the Unknown World. Maybe I’m a monster, or perhaps I’m a more important character – one that may even become an ally. I spur the hero to their first act of bravery."

Who Am I:

"I’m a character who has a platonic relationship with the hero. I might be in love with the hero or vise versa, but nothing will ever come of it. I’m often independent and strong-willed, sometimes knocking some sense into the hero. Other times, the hero ignores my wisdom. This can make me a character with more depth."

Who Am I:

"I’m here to save the day! I was called out of my boring life and led on an incredible quest. At first, I may not have been so sure about this quest, but now I know that it’s up to me to right the wrongs. I may have a flaw or two, weaknesses that my enemies try to take advantage of. I must overcome these weaknesses to complete my mission."

Who Am I:

"An ally with fur and feathers, I join the hero on their journey. I may transport them, protect them, or may just be entertainment. Regardless, I make the journey more exciting."

Who Am I:

"I can change at will. Perhaps it is my appearance that changes, or more metaphorically, my motives. I represent trust – and mistrust. After all, you never know what to expect with me!"

Who Am I:

"I look out for me, myself, and I! If I help the hero, there is likely something in it for me. I may also help the hero’s enemy if it is to my benefit. I represent chaos and sometimes have an eccentric personality. Some may think I’m a little off my hinges. I can also be quite the troublemaker! I enjoy speaking in riddles and toying with whoever seeks my help."

Who Am I:

"You’re invited! What: a quest Where: Unknown World I bring the hero news of a mission or journey. Sometimes I come in the form of a character, maybe even someone who has been watching over the hero from afar. Other times, I might be an event or tragedy, moving the hero to action."

Who Am I:

"Oh poor me. I’m the gag-worthy trope in many an adventure movie. In older more traditional adventures, I’m portrayed as a helpless, fainting maiden (usually with animal friends). A shift in culture has allowed me to appear as a Dude in Distress in some stories. Either way, I pretty much rely on a hero to save me."