The Best Story Wins: How to Leverage Hollywood Storytelling in Business & Beyond

by Matthew Luhn

Some character types appear again and again in literature, plays, and movies. Here are the most common archetypes: The Herald: announces a need for change in the hero’s life and/or world. Sometimes a herald is a character but can also come in other forms like a letter. The Guardian: tests the hero before they embark on their journey. Also known as the threshold guardian. The Mentor: equips the hero with information about the world and physical or symbolic tools to defeat the villain and reach the hero’s goal. Allies: help the hero overcome obstacles, defeat the villain, and obtain the goal. The Trickster: injects humor into the story, challenging the status quo. The Shapeshifter: at first appears to be the hero’s ally, but later betrays the hero. The Shadow: is the hero’s main obstacle, creating external conflict and threat. Also known as the villain.