Archetypes are present throughout every piece of literature. Archetypes are common recurring symbols or character traits that help readers better connect with the story and characters. Certain archetypes are crucial for helping the hero complete their hero’s journey. The Life of Pi by Yann Martel, Mulan by Barry Cook and Tony Bandcoff, and Aladdin by Roger Allens all show that the companion and mentor archetypes are two of the most important archetypes for helping the hero throughout the hero’s journey.
The companion archetype is one of the most important archetypes for helping the hero complete the hero's journey. Due to the ship that Pi was on sinking, Pi is stranded at sea with limited supplies and Richard Parker, a tiger. Pi states, “...Companion of my tourmet, awful, fierce thing that kept me alive.”. “Companion of my torment” shows how richard parker represents the companion archetype
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In the beginning of The Life of Pi, Pi is struggling with his religion so he decides to go to Mr. Kumar for guidance. Pi claims that “Mr. Kumar was the prophet of my youth.”. “Prophet of my youth.” is pi describing Mr. Kumar as a prophet, who is someone who is inspiring. this is because Mr. Kumar inspired Pi to study religion and zoology, as well as helping Pi discover his true religion. In Aladdin, the Genie helps Aladdin show and accept his true self, by teaching him lessons through the wishes that he granted Aladdin. The mentor archetype is a character who provides the hero with advice and wisdom to help the hero complete their quest. The mentor archetype is important in both The Life of Pi and Aladdin because the mentors help the hero discover themselves. This shows how every hero needs a mentor to help guide them throughout their journey, which is why the mentor is another one of the most important archetypes for helping a hero throughout the hero’s