Trickster Archetypes

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The trickster is in all of us. It may seem as though we are far from it, but all of us have a little bit of the archetypal trickster and these similarities display themselves in subtle ways that we disregard them altogether. Tricksters have been a part of our history for a very long time, either handed down from generations to generations, verbally or transcribed to keep records for the future. Archetypes are symbolism of people, and how the majority perceives them, and a trickster archetype derives from that. When studying the trickster archetype, it is important to explore all of the areas that make the trickster, what it is. This includes its characteristics, roles, cultural purpose and evolution.
Tricksters have coinciding characteristics …show more content…

Tying in many generations of storytelling and implicit messages, the trickster archetype has evolved and changed its cultural purpose depending on the area. The archetype has progressed heavily as within many cultures, evident in African cultures where mythological creatures are humans (Trickster tale) this change from a being that may have magical powers to a human just like us portrays how important the archetype has become and how they stand for revolution and defiance of society. Moreover, trickster tales have developed serious undertones with the humor standing as a coat over it. The undertones of trickster tales emphasize mainly the power imbalance that may be present in the story. Harris says, “frequently a source of humor, they also contain serious commentary on the inequalities of existence.” (Harris) We see these implications throughout different cultures and through when trickster stories are recited during mourning processions or comedic gatherings (Trickster tale). Finally, trickster tales have many layers to them that make them quite purposeful; Tricksters give voice to the thoughts of the people. Written in regards to the Africans enslaved in America, “perhaps the actions of the characters did indeed reflect the actions of those enslaved.” (Harris) In majority of world trickster literature, oppressed and intelligent would win over superior and intelligent which makes the case that, “Intelligence and wits only rival more intelligence and wits.” (Hyde) It stands as an example on how trickster tales had evolved from being simply just for entertainment to having an undertone of rebellion and grave

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