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We Were Liars Archetypes

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n the novel "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart, the archetypes of "the initiation," "the outcast," and "the star-crossed lovers" are used to illustrate the theme of coming of age. The characters in the novel experience various trials and tribulations that force them to confront their inner selves and grow into adulthood. These archetypes are essential to the development of the characters and the overall theme of the novel.

The initiation archetype is prominent in the novel, as it is the catalyst for the main character, Cadence Sinclair Eastman, to confront the truth about her family. The initiation involves a transformation from innocence to experience, and Cadence undergoes a profound transformation as a result of the events in the novel. In the novel, Cadence reflects on her experience, saying, "We were liars. We were beautiful and privileged, and we were liars. And we did not want to admit that we were liars" (Lockhart 10). Cadence's realization that her family is not perfect marks the beginning of her journey to maturity. …show more content…

Cadence is seen as an outcast by her family, who expect her to behave in a certain way and keep her feelings to herself. Cadence is unable to conform to their expectations, and this leads to her feeling isolated and alone. She reflects on her feelings, saying, "I didn't feel normal. I felt like a freak who couldn't stop obsessing over things that didn't matter" (Lockhart 27). Her experience as an outcast helps her to develop empathy for others and become more accepting of those who are different from

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