Redefining Heroism: A Study of Character Archetypes in ‘Wonder Woman’

For generations, the silver screen has portrayed a consistent idea of heroism. If we journey back in time, dissecting countless movies, we find a pattern: the classical hero — usually a strong-willed male, wrestling with his fate, often battling external evils to restore order. But screenwriting, like all art forms, is fluid. It evolves with society. It’s where screenwriting tips come in handy; they help writers to adapt and reflect society’s shifting perceptions. And no film has showcased this evolution as dynamically as ‘Wonder Woman’.

“Wonder Woman,” directed by Patty Jenkins, presents to its audience a refreshing departure from this classical model. In Diana Prince, we don’t see the conventional male protagonist or the damsel who needs saving. Instead, we’re introduced to a complex, powerful, and empathetic warrior. Someone who, in her heart, believes in the inherent goodness of mankind, despite their flaws and their capacity for war. Her vision of heroism isn’t based on power or might, but on love, understanding, and compassion.

Now, some might argue that even male heroes showcase these traits. True, but what sets Diana apart is that her entire worldview is shaped by them. Her strength isn’t just in her superpowers but in her unyielding belief in love and righteousness. Unlike the male heroes who often have to ‘soften’ or learn empathy, Diana starts with it. This subversion of expectations provides a fresh narrative and a new kind of role model.

The process of writing a screenplay that breaks molds isn’t a walk in the park. It requires a thorough understanding of what the mold is in the first place. In traditional narratives, our heroes often had a set path: a challenge arises, they resist the call, they accept the call, face adversaries, and finally, they conquer. Their character development is frequently tied to their trials, usually culminating in an external show of strength.

But Diana’s journey is more internal. Yes, she trains hard, and yes, she faces adversaries. However, her real challenge isn’t just defeating the god of war but understanding the complexities of human nature. By the time the final battle ensues, Diana has already faced and overcome her most significant hurdle: reconciling her beliefs with the reality of human nature. It’s this profound realization, not her combat skills, that truly defines her as a hero. It provides a pivotal screenwriting tip for budding writers: heroism isn’t just about physical battles; it’s often about the internal ones.

Furthermore, the island of Themyscira, home to the Amazons, stands as a stark contrast to the war-torn world of men. It’s not just a place but a representation of an ideal, a society where women aren’t defined by their relationships to men. This, in itself, is revolutionary. It challenges writers to think outside societal norms and ask the question: what if? Writing tips often encourage thinking outside the box, but “Wonder Woman” does more than just that. It tears the box apart, challenging and inspiring writers to redefine not just heroism but societal structures in their narratives.

This leads us to an essential takeaway for writers. In your quest for writing tips to enhance your scripts, consider this: while it’s essential to understand classical structures and archetypes, don’t be confined by them. Like “Wonder Woman,” dare to challenge, dare to redefine, and most importantly, dare to tell stories that reflect the richness and diversity of the world we inhabit.

Diana’s Journey: A Deep Dive into Screenplay Structure

“Wonder Woman,” while a revolutionary take on the superhero genre, doesn’t completely abandon the time-tested mechanisms that make a screenplay captivating. It leverages the well-worn three-act structure, but with nuanced changes that adapt to Diana’s unique journey. Let’s delve into how this film’s screenplay structure both respects and redefines traditional storytelling paradigms.

Act I: Establishment and Departure

Every story begins with setting the stage, introducing the characters, and establishing the world they inhabit. On the island of Themyscira, we’re not only introduced to Diana but the world of the Amazons-a world where women are warriors, leaders, and protectors. It’s a paradise, serene and untouched by the corruptions of the outside world. This beginning act does more than just introduce a protagonist; it introduces an ideal. It’s a bold move, one that any writer should take note of when writing a screenplay. Instead of just a character backstory, we’re given an ideological backstory, something that will resonate throughout the entire narrative.

But every hero needs a call to action. Diana’s comes in the form of Steve Trevor, whose entrance (or more accurately, crash-landing) propels Diana into the chaos of the human world. Her decision to leave her haven, driven by her sense of duty and justice, is the point of no return. It’s the catalyst that sets the story in motion, and it’s tied intrinsically to her character development. Writers should note: your protagonist’s decisions should not just advance the plot but reflect their inner beliefs and conflicts.

Act II: Conflict and Revelation

The second act, often the bulkiest and most intricate, is where the meat of the story lies. It’s where characters are tested, bonds are formed, and challenges arise. For Diana, it’s her introduction to the World of Man-World War I to be precise. Every scene, every battle, is a juxtaposition of her ideals against the harsh reality of war and human nature. She expects clear demarcations of good and evil. However, the muddy trenches of war, both literally and figuratively, blur these lines.

What’s particularly intriguing about “Wonder Woman” is how Diana’s character development aligns with the war’s progression. As battles intensify, so do her internal struggles. The midpoint of the film, a significant plot point in the three-act structure, showcases Diana’s determination as she charges into No Man’s Land, a powerful symbol of her challenging the constraints placed on her. As any screenwriter knows, the midpoint is a moment of significant emotional impact, and in “Wonder Woman,” it’s not just about the external battle but the internal affirmation of Diana’s beliefs.

However, revelations await. While Diana believes Ares, the god of war, is the puppet master, orchestrating the war, she’s faced with a profound realization: humanity itself is flawed, capable of both great love and great destruction. This revelation, coming towards the end of the second act, is critical. It’s the emotional low point, and it’s what sets the stage for the climax. Again, a lesson here for those seeking screenwriting tips: your protagonist’s internal revelations should be as impactful, if not more, than the external conflicts they face.

Act III: Climax and Resolution

The third act is where everything comes to a head. For Diana, it’s not just about defeating Ares but reconciling with the dual nature of humanity. The climax is intense, not because of its impressive visual effects, but because of its emotional stakes. Diana’s decision to believe in love and humanity, even in the face of betrayal and loss, is what makes her a hero.

Her journey, from the naive warrior of Themyscira to the hero who understands the complexities of the human heart, is complete. As writers, it’s crucial to ensure that character evolution and narrative progression merge seamlessly. The events of your story should not just happen to your protagonist; they should profoundly affect and change them.

In conclusion, “Wonder Woman” offers a masterclass in screenplay structure, showcasing how traditional paradigms can be adapted to tell fresh, compelling stories. For those diving into the world of screenwriting, let Diana’s journey serve as an inspiration. Allow your characters to evolve, let them grapple with internal conflicts as much as external ones, and remember: the heart of a story lies in its emotional depth, not just its plot points.

Empowerment and Vulnerability: Contemporary Writing Prompts from ‘Wonder Woman’

“Wonder Woman” is a veritable goldmine of inspiration for any writer, from its rich characterization to its intricate plot. However, two themes that truly stand out are empowerment and vulnerability. These aren’t just themes exclusive to this movie; they’re deeply relevant in today’s socio-cultural discourse. But how does “Wonder Woman” handle these themes? And more importantly, how can budding writers draw from these insights, integrating similar thematic elements into their works? Let’s journey through Diana’s world once more, seeking writing tips and prompts to enrich our own narratives.

Empowerment: Breaking Boundaries and Setting New Norms

Diana’s journey from Themyscira to the front lines of World War I is, in essence, a journey of empowerment. She shatters the stereotypes set for her, both as an Amazonian and a woman in an early 20th-century setting. Her decision to step into No Man’s Land, amidst the skepticism of the soldiers, is symbolic of her challenging societal norms.

But empowerment isn’t just about physical prowess. It’s about making choices, taking stands, and refusing to be pigeonholed. For writers, this is a call to action. Your characters, irrespective of their gender or background, can defy societal expectations. So, here’s a writing prompt for you:

Write a scene where your character, faced with overwhelming odds, chooses to defy the expectations set for them, not through an overt display of power, but through a simple, profound act of choice. Vulnerability: The Strength in Acceptance

Diana’s vulnerabilities aren’t hidden. In fact, they’re highlighted, from her naiveté about the human world to her struggle in understanding the dual nature of humanity. This vulnerability doesn’t weaken her; it adds depth to her character. Many renowned screenplays use vulnerability as a tool to create relatable, three-dimensional characters.

Vulnerability is about understanding and accepting one’s emotions, fears, and uncertainties. It’s this acceptance that often leads to the most profound personal growth. Diana’s realization of the complex nature of humans, their capacity for both love and hate, is a significant moment of vulnerability. It reshapes her worldview and strengthens her resolve.

Writing tip: Vulnerability can be a character’s greatest strength. It humanizes them, making them relatable to the audience. Consider this prompt:

Draft a dialogue between two characters. One reveals a deep-seated vulnerability or fear. The other responds not with sympathy, but with a revelation of their own, creating a bond between the two. Drawing Inspiration from “Wonder Woman”

Empowerment and vulnerability aren’t just themes; they’re storytelling tools, avenues to explore the depths of a character’s psyche. If “Wonder Woman” teaches us anything, it’s that these themes, handled with care and depth, can resonate profoundly with an audience.

To integrate these deeper thematic elements into character arcs, start by asking fundamental questions about your characters. What empowers them? Where do they draw their strength? Conversely, what are their fears? Their insecurities? Understanding these can provide a roadmap for your character’s evolution.

To set you on this path, here are some writing prompts inspired by “Wonder Woman’s” narrative:

1. Role Reversal: Picture a world where societal norms are reversed. How would your character navigate this world? What challenges would they face, and how would they overcome them?
2. Discovering Humanity: Place your character in a setting completely alien to them (much like Diana in London). How do they react? What aspects of this new world challenge their beliefs?
3. Moral Dilemmas: Confront your character with a moral dilemma, a situation where the line between right and wrong is blurred. How do they react? Does this challenge reshape their worldview?

In conclusion, “Wonder Woman” offers a treasure trove of lessons for writers. Its themes of empowerment and vulnerability are timeless, universal, and incredibly relevant. By drawing from its narrative, incorporating its lessons, and using these writing prompts, you can craft stories that not only entertain but resonate deeply with your audience. And always remember, as you journey through the world of screenwriting, it’s the depth of emotion, the authenticity of experience, and the truths you reveal that will make your story truly heroic.

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Originally published at http://aiinscreentrade.com on November 2, 2023.