Character Archetype for the Mythic Hero

Folktale Hero…Very ordinary person, a step-child, or a

neglected youngest childNo superhuman abilities, but might be

special in other ways (kind, clever, or resourceful)

Mythic Heroes…Usually have a remarkable birth or childhood

Often offspring of a god and a human

Born under unusual circumstances

Shows early signs of being special

A quest is….A journey taken in search of something of

value

This could be….A personConcrete object (treasure, magical

charm)Abstract concept (truth, meaning of life)Hero searching for his roots

Both mythic heroes and folktale heroes…Called on to participate in an adventure ORForced to face a series of challenges or tests

Mythic heroes are helped by…Loyal friendsGods/goddesses

**(folktale heroes, on the other hand, are often helped by people, animals, or magical beings)

Hero and the flawMythic heroes often have…

a character flaw (usually pride) flaw causes them to fail on their quest

Mythic hero quests often involve……a descent to a dark, frightening place that

other humans dare not enter

If hero survives, he/she often brings back something to share, such as…

1.new knowledge2.a renewed attitude3.greater compassion and wisdom

Greek myth of Theseus

Art work depicting Theseus and the Minotaur…

Website for tales of the Greek heroes…click on picture for link to website, which will take you to a more detailed version of the myth of Theseus.

Mt. Sunion

Mt. Sunion

Mt. Sunion

Gulf Coast Kids in Delphi