Carl Jung, one of the most renowned psychologists of the 20th century, explored deeply into the nature of the personality and subconscious motivations of the individual. One of his theories dealt with the concept of archetypes, which later thinkers such as Joseph Campbell, with his work on myth and the hero’s journey, would incorporate into their own work.
Archetypes exist as “inherited material,” existing fluidly within the collective unconscious. Archetypes are stable no matter the culture or nation a person belongs; none are limited to a gender. In the life of the individual, and in the development of personality, particular archetypes are brought forth and result in thoughts, behaviors, attitudes, motivations, and overall orientations. An archetype is not just a checklist of traits. The archetypes are more like “animated blueprints” embedded in human consciousness.
“Archetypes are the living system of reactions and aptitudes that determine the individual’s life in invisible ways.” —Carl Jung, Structure and Dynamics of the Psyche
Within the psyche, there will be many archetypes, some more dominant than others. The goal is to become aware of the archetypes within the individual, and consciously bring them into balance. In the center of the “self,” there exists a “directing” force. Some believe this to be the True Self, possibly the soul itself. This Director, if the individual becomes attuned with it, is what works to bring the archetypes into balance with each other.
Over the next couple of weeks, I will discuss some of the Jungian archetypes: the traits, behaviors, and the “images,” the place where the culture and time period intersect with the archetype(s), and ultimately produce the personality. With an open mind, you will probably be able to identify which archetypes most apply to you. This is the first step to individuation (a term Jung used to describe the “actualized,” balanced, and integrated personality) using the archetypes. For the fun of it, I am going to first describe one of my most dominant archetypes- The Joker.
TODAY’S ARCHETYPE
The Joker/The Fool
The Joker lives in a state of perpetual humor and joy. There are so many examples of the Joker in popular media, it would take days to exhaust the list. In the face of danger and suffering, the Joker will still insist upon a light, airy countenance to the point of impossibility.
There is more to being a Joker than being a simple comedian, however. The Joker, in his positive manifestation, approaches life in a fresh and innocent way- trusting, uplifting, and completely in the moment. The Joker does not struggle with the opposing forces of the world; rather, he accepts the paradoxes of life completely.
Words and Traits to Describe the POSITIVE Joker:
- CATALYST for positive change
- Spontaneous
- In the moment
- Quick witted
- Fun, carefree
- Smiley, cheerful disposition
- Sarcastic
- Dry and humorous
- Mischievous
- Self-deprecating, humble
- “Plays the fool”
- Provocative
- Ironic
- Uplifts others
- Uses humor to reframe problems
- Unconventional
- Resists tradition
Words and Traits to Describe the NEGATIVE Joker:
- CATALYST for destruction
- Sharp tongue
- Critical humor
- Impulsive/Addiction-prone
- Lack of trust
- Irreverent at inappropriate times
- Uses humor to avoid facing problems, or to cover up traumas and wounds
- Insensitive
The Positive Purpose of the Joker
The Joker, in his positive manifestation, transforms others by reflecting back to them the paradigms they have outgrown. The joker encourages those around them to embrace the present moment and find joy even in the mundane. They bring strength and resilience to difficult situations, personifying the Beginnings of life.
Love and Light
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