Now that we have become familiar with Archetypal characters and some of their limitations, let us recap our list of the eight Archetypal Characters as a prelude to resolving the inconsistencies we saw in The Wizard of Oz and Jaws:

 

•PROTAGONIST: The traditional Protagonist is the driver of the story: the one who forces the action. We root for it and hope for its success.

 

•ANTAGONIST: The Antagonist is the character directly opposed to the Protagonist. It represents the problem that must be solved or overcome for the Protagonist to succeed.

 

•REASON: The Reason character deliberates and takes action based on logic, never letting feelings get in the way of a rational course.

 

•EMOTION: The Emotion character responds with its feelings without thinking, whether it is angry or kind, without regard for practicality.

 

•SKEPTIC: The Skeptic doubts everything -- courses of action, sincerity, truth -- whatever.

 

•SIDEKICK: The Sidekick is unfailing in its loyalty and support. The Sidekick often aligns with the Protagonist though it may also attach itself to the Antagonist.

 

•GUARDIAN: The Guardian is a teacher or helper who aids the Protagonist in its quest and offers a moral standard.

 

•CONTAGONIST: The Contagonist hinders and deludes the Protagonist, tempting it to take the wrong course or approach.