3 Ways to Teach Literary Archetypes in Middle School

Sometimes the word archetype can sound intimidating, like one that you would slip into an essay to sound smart and get a higher grade. But in reality, archetypes are such a simple and powerful tool for helping students to compare and contrast the literature they read. And believe it or not, teaching literary archetypes can be tons of fun! Here are a few ways to make that happen:

Host an Archetype Fashion Show

I mentioned this in my 5 Non-Spooky Halloween Ideas post, but it’s worth mentioning again! One of my favorite projects of the school year is our archetype fashion show. I assign a different archetype to each student and let them plan a costume that represents that archetype. They even pick their own theme songs and write a description that I read as they strut down our runway. Each year, my class picks judges (such as the principal, the choir teacher, etc.) to judge the fashion show, and I give the winners gift cards as a prize! If this sounds like fun but too much work, you can pick up my Archetype Fashion Show Kit to cut down on the prep. It’s an event your students won’t soon forget!

Play a Fun Archetype Game

This can get a little silly, but it’s worth it! Give each student a small card with a different literary archetype written on it. Without looking, the students should place the cards on their foreheads. (I let my students use tape to secure the cards.) Then have them walk around the room and treat each other like their labeled archetypes. It’s reminiscent of “Diversity Day” on The Office but much more productive — and appropriate. Pick up pre-made archetype game cards here!

Do an Archetype Sort

On the whiteboard, make a column for each literary archetype you want to review. Give each student a sticky note and tell them to write down the name of the main character from the last T.V. show they watched. When everyone has a name written down, have them place their sticky notes in the correct categories. You can go over the answers as a class and then repeat with the protagonist of the last book they read, the last music artist they listened to, or even themselves!

I hope your students enjoy learning about archetypes! If you post about your activities on social media, tag "#allaboutarchetypes and @distinguishedenglish so I can follow your adventures!