This document discusses the archetype of the wise elder, providing examples from various cultures throughout history and fiction. The wise elder archetype represents a kind, knowledgeable older figure who uses life experience and wisdom to guide and teach others. Examples discussed include the biblical figure Moses, the Greek elder Nestor, the Roman goddess Minerva, independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, the Star Wars character Yoda, and the Harry Potter character Albus Dumbledore.

1. By: Tommy Ristau

2.  This is a character archetype
 This type of character is represented as a
kind and wise, older father-type figure who
uses personal knowledge of people and the
world to help tell stories and offer guidance
that may impress upon his audience a sense
of who they are and who they might
become.

3.  Example-Moses
 Lived from 1391–1271 BC
 Part of Ancient Middle Eastern Culture
 Archetype during this culture would
most likely be seen in religious figures

4.  Leads his people through the Red Sea in
Exodus
 Must have been wise/important because he
was given 10 commandments by God
 Lived to be 120 years old!
 One of the most important prophets of all
time

5.  Example-Nestor
 Lived during the Trojan war
 Was a very wise man but his advice did not
always yield desired results
 Wise men/elders not respected quite as much
as in other societies
◦ Such as Ancient China

6.  Elder statesmen of the Greeks during the
Trojan War
 “The master of the courteous word, the clear-
voiced orator”
 Lived to a very great age

7.  Romans took most of their mythology God’s
from the Greeks but renamed them.
 Example-Minerva
 Roman Empire has often had wise slaves
because of their huge dependence on Slavery
 Roman leaders were not the wisest because
of the way they were selected

8.  Goddess of wisdom
 Often show with an owl, which is a symbol of
her wisdom
 Frequently used on university seals

9.  Example-Mahatma Gandhi
 Indian Independence movement
◦ Civil rights movement
 Plenty of Racism going on during time period

10.  Knows that all humans should be treated
equal
◦ Fights to stop racism and get rights in South Africa
 Was not afraid to express what he believed
was right
◦ Ends up in prison multiple times because of this
 Had many great ideas on making peace
 One of the most influential people of all time

11.  Example-Yoda
 From Star wars
 Master of the force

12.  Wisest being in the universe
 Lived to be over 900 years old
 Helps the Jedi defeat the Sith with his
knowledge of the force and life
 Spends lots of time meditating on a floating
chair

13.  Example-Albus Dumbledore
 Harry Potter Series
◦ By J.K. Rowling
 Harry Potter is one of the most read/watched
series in modern culture.

14.  Dumbledore is a mentor and example for
Harry and the other characters throughout
the book
 He is the most talented wizard in the world
 Long white beard look
 Sets up Harry to beat Voldemort

15.  Mr. Howell!!!