Archetypes Term Paper

Archetypes are constant throughout all times and cultures. You find them in all of the most satisfying literature. An understanding of these forces is one of the most powerful elements in the storyteller’s toolbox. When you grasp the function of the archetype a character expresses, you will know his or her purpose in the story. The trickster embodies the use of mischief and the desire for change. “He/she cuts big egos down to size and brings heroes and readers down to earth” Vogler says. A trickster brings change by drawing attention to the imbalance or absurdity of a stagnant situation and often provokes laughter. In Shakespeare’s play, Othello, one of the earliest scenes where we see Iago’s power of being a trickster is when Iago is talking to Roderigo. Roderigo told Iago that he is going to drown himself because Roderigo cannot have Desdemona and Desdemona does not love him back. Iago tells Roderigo: She must change for youth. When she is sated with his body she will find the error of her choice. Therefore, put money in thy purse. If thou wilt needs damn thyself, do it a more delicate way than drowning. Make all the money thou canst If sanctimony and a frail vow betwixt an earring barbarian and a super subtle Venetian be not too hard for my wits and all the tribe of hell, thou shalt enjoy her. Therefore make money. (1.3, 393- 401) Iago uses his power of manipulations on Roderigo. Iago manipulates Roderigo into thinking that he has a chance to be with Desdemona. Iago makes Roderigo believe that Desdemona will get tired of Othello and that she will leave Othello and be with him. Iago keeps telling Roderigo to fill his purse with money over and over again. Iago keeps telling Roderigo this because when Desdemona leaves Othello he will need all of his money in order to win Desdemona over. But in actuality Iago wants Roderigo to fill money in thy purse because Iago wants to have all the money for himself. Eventually in the play Othello, Iago loses