Character Archetypes #3

Unmask the cast of every story! This worksheet introduces middle school learners to several classic character archetypes found throughout literature. Students will read each description, match it to the correct archetype from the word bank, and draw a symbol that represents that character type.

As learners work through the activity, they deepen their understanding of how authors use archetypes to shape character roles and drive stories forward. Recognizing these patterns not only strengthens reading comprehension but also helps students become more intentional writers. By exploring archetypes such as the ruler, the lover, the explorer, the herald, the sidekick, and the warrior, students gain valuable insight into character development, which is an essential step in avoiding clichés and crafting meaningful, memorable characters of their own.