Examples Of Archetypes In Fahrenheit 451

It is a known fact that the most effective way to captivate one’s readers is through relation. The reader needs to understand the situation and atmosphere; achieving this is the goal of every author. A common way to accomplish a reliable story is through the use of universally recognized models or archetypes. These identifiable archetypes can be seen in symbols, themes, or plots; however, the most typically used are the character archetypes, a broad range of story stereotypes ranging from the pure-hearted hero to the sneaky magician. One example of a character archetype is the sage or mentor model. According to “Archetypes” by Hillsborough College, the mentor archetype is an old, wise figure to the protagonist of the story. This archetype transfers his knowledge and gifts to the main character in order to assistant them, and acts as the protagonist's conscious and guides …show more content…
Although one would be able to find the mentor model throughout several different medias, one case can be seen in Ray Bradbury’s book burning dystopia known as Fahrenheit 451. The character can be seen specifically in the old and wise, former English professor named Faber, as he assists Guy Montag, the protagonist, by transferring his resources to Montag’s cause and guiding the man when he is faced with danger. Fahrenheit 451 depicts a world where ideas and knowledge are censored via book burning. In this world, Faber lived in a time before humanity “let [books] go” and reading was still legal (Bradbury 81). He was also a college professor, giving him a certain exposure to the ideas in literature unique in Bradbury’s world. It is this understanding of novels that allows Faber to to teach Montag that what he needs to