Archetypes used in The Matrix
The Matrix, a very entertaining and thought-provoking movie, was riddled with archetypes. A few of these archetypes will be discussed, showing how each symbol related to the movie’s theme- in order to defeat a greater enemy, one must gain experience (such as that received on a quest) to receive the power to overcome one’s enemies. Some such archetypes included: the Stages of a Quest/Hero(ine) Archetype, in which the hero goes in search of the power ; the God/Goddess-Teacher Archetype, who helps the hero find the power within him/herself ; and the Metamorphosis Archetype, which shows how the hero must change into something else in order to gain the power. ... In The Matrix, Neo, the protagonist, must gain all of these, most notably physical strength. ... In the Matrix, Neo was curious about the Matrix, shown during the scene at the club, in which Trinity asked him about the question which Neo had always wanted to know the answer to. Neo responds, “What is the Matrix? ... When Morpheus asked Neo if he would like to know what the Matrix is, Neo responded that he did. “The Matrix is everywhere. ... The Matrix is the world that has been pulled over your eyes, to blind from the truth.” This conversation is a ritual, a conversation that familiarizes the viewers with the Matrix. ... In The Matrix, Neo was recruited by Morpheus, who, like many other teachers, was in fact waiting for him. Morpheus teaches Neo all about fighting, about self control and belief, and explained to him all about the real world and the Matrix. ... “When the Matrix was first created, there was born in it a man, who could change anything he wished. ... When he died, the Oracle prophesized his return, and that his coming would mark the end of the Matrix.