# Explore the Essential Character Archetypes in Screenwriting

Understanding Character Archetypes

Join my upcoming one-week online course beginning Monday, February 12th, to delve into the concept of character archetypes in storytelling.

Special Offers Await!

Take advantage of two exclusive offers, including a chance to receive a signed copy of my book, The Protagonist's Journey! Details below.

In screenwriting, every character serves a specific purpose. Unlike novels, scripts have limited space, compelling writers to thoughtfully integrate characters with the narrative. Most films center around a Protagonist who experiences significant growth or transformation. Consequently, both primary and secondary characters are intricately linked to the Protagonist's journey.

This leads us to a crucial principle in screenwriting that I emphasize in my Core curriculum:

Character = Function

While this might seem simplistic, it’s quite the opposite. Just as actors ponder their character's motivations, screenwriters explore each character's essence and how it relates to the overall story. Understanding these dynamics enables us to develop characters in countless ways, all while considering their roles in advancing the narrative. For instance, consider characters like the Wicked Witch (Nemesis), Toto (Trickster), and Dorothy (Protagonist), as well as Glinda (Mentor).

The course begins with Core III: Character, where we will explore these concepts in depth.

Course Overview

Throughout this one-week course, you will investigate five key archetypes: Protagonist, Nemesis, Attractor, Mentor, and Trickster. This framework will help you craft characters with depth, each uniquely tied to your story.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will gain insights into:

The universal nature of character archetypes
The Protagonist's connection to story structure
The role of Nemesis as an opposing force
Differentiating between Attractor and Mentor as ally types
The Trickster as a plot-shifting entity
Exploring various Protagonist models and engaging in the Switch Protagonist exercise, among other topics.

Featured Characters: Clarice (Protagonist), Lecter (Mentor)

Course Details

The course includes:

Six lectures authored by Scott Myers
Insider tips from industry professionals
Round-the-clock online discussions moderated by the instructor
Writing exercises with peer reviews
A 90-minute live teleconference hosted by me
A logline workshop

We will analyze numerous films, including The Wizard of Oz, The Silence of the Lambs, Slumdog Millionaire, and many others.

Featured Characters: Megan (Mentor), Helen (Nemesis), Annie (Protagonist), Lillian (Trickster)

Why Take This Course?

This course is ideal for screenwriters, TV writers, novelists, and playwrights eager to enhance their writing and character development through archetype theory.

Testimonial: "Focusing on character archetypes was invaluable for me." ~ Bob Corsi

Advantages of the Online Format

Access courses anytime on your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Engage in a vibrant, supportive online community.
Receive constructive feedback from experienced instructors.

I offer my Core classes only once a year, with the 2024 cycle starting soon. This curriculum covers eight essential principles: Plot, Concept, Character, Style, Dialogue, Scene, Theme, and Time.

Upcoming Courses

CORE I: PLOT – Begins January 15.
CORE II: CONCEPT – Begins January 29.
CORE III: CHARACTER – Begins February 12.
CORE IV: STYLE – Begins February 26.
CORE V: DIALOGUE – Begins March 11.
CORE VI: SCENE – Begins March 25.
CORE VII: THEME – Begins April 8.
CORE VIII: TIME – Begins April 22.

These eight Core classes draw from my extensive experience in the entertainment industry and my commitment to teaching effective storytelling.

Special Offers

Offer #1: This cycle, enjoy a reduced price of $79 (regularly $95) for each Core class!

A popular option is the Core Package, which grants access to all eight Craft classes at nearly 50% off, with automatic enrollment in each course. Sign up now for immediate access to all Core content.

"Joining Scott's Core classes is one of the best decisions anyone could make for their screenwriting journey!" — Theodora von Auersperg

Imagine the opportunity to learn all Core content while engaging with me and fellow writers in live Zoom sessions. The Core Package includes all this and more!

Offer #2: Enroll in the Core Package to receive a signed copy of The Protagonist's Journey, my gift to you!

"Scott is a brilliant guide for aspiring screenwriters." — Lisa Joy, Westworld, Reminiscence

My book serves as an introduction to character-driven storytelling, while the Core curriculum delves deeper into essential principles for enhancing your screenwriting skills.

To learn more about the Core Package and receive your free autographed book, click here. For details on Core III: Character, which starts February 12th, click here.

I look forward to the chance to work with you!

Chapter 2: Character Archetypes Explored

In this chapter, we will discuss the various character archetypes and their significance in storytelling.

The Five Major Character Types in Storytelling

This video provides an overview of the five essential character types that shape narratives and engage audiences.

Chapter 3: Understanding Character Roles in TTRPGs

Here, we dive into how character archetypes apply in tabletop role-playing games and their impact on storytelling.

Five Character Archetypes You Should Play in D&D (or Any TTRPG)

This video explores five archetypes that enhance gameplay and storytelling in Dungeons & Dragons and similar tabletop games.

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