Vladimir Propp identifies 7 common character types that typically appear in stories: 1) The Hero is the main character who is usually good; 2) The Helper aids and supports the Hero; 3) The Villain disrupts the story and is usually bad; 4) The False Hero pretends to help the Hero; 5) The Donor provides something to help the Hero solve the problem; 6) The Dispatcher sends the Hero on their quest; 7) The Princess and Princess' Father are often related to the reward or goal for the Hero.