1 - Storytelling archetypes | DesignLab

storytelling archetypes

What: A Connect and Relate exercise, to understand perspectives and values
Goal: Reflect on own values while addressing the challenge
Duration: 15-30 mins

Introduction

Since co-shaping the future is an active task, this exercise encourages participants to reflect on their own values while addressing the challenge, and the active role they would like to play. Shaping futures is similar to 'choose your own adventure' so using storytelling archetypes is an inspiring and fun activity.

How it works

Individually (5 mins)

When you think about addressing the societal challenge, choose the archetype that you most identify with based on your personal values:

The Hero: Courage, determination, perseverance, and sacrifice.
The Sage: Wisdom, intelligence, knowledge, and insight.
The Explorer: Adventure, independence, freedom, and curiosity.
The Caregiver: Compassion, empathy, nurturing, and selflessness.
The Creator: Innovation, imagination, creativity, and self-expression.
The Jester: Humor, playfulness, spontaneity, and enjoyment.
The Rebel: Nonconformity, revolution, change, and freedom.
The Lover: Connection, passion, intimacy, and romance.

Share with your group (10 mins)

Tip(s) for moderator

Storytelling archetypes are very well known in literature and the field of 'narratology'. Here we give a list of examples, but feel free to include other archtypes or encourage participants to create their own.

Output

Self-reflection on your own role addressing societal challenges and co-shaping futures.
Understanding of others' perspectives and perceived roles.

Download(s)

Reference(s)

Inspired by the work of Adam Cowart: 'Exploring the relationship between narrative structures and future imaginaries'.
Storytelling archetypes are based on Carl Jung's work.

Overview

Other methods and tools to 'Connect and Relate':

2 - Understanding values and perspectives

3 - Stakeholder map

4 - Futures wheel: Identify stakeholders

5 - Stakeholder cards

6 - Your experience 'garden'

7 - Explore status quo

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