Detective Archetype Notes PDF

Introducing The Detective Archetype  The detective archetype definition  The detective archetype an “archetype” is a stereotypical “type” of character you see in a text (ex: “the jock,” “the damsel in distress,” etc.) The Detective Archetype: ○ a type of character who solves...

Introducing The Detective Archetype  The detective archetype definition  The detective archetype an “archetype” is a stereotypical “type” of character you see in a text (ex: “the jock,” “the damsel in distress,” etc.) The Detective Archetype: ○ a type of character who solves crimes or mysteries ○ typically the protagonist in the text ○ can be an amateur detective or professional detective  What is the “detective archetype” like? Characteristics of the detective archetype Detectives usually… ○ demonstrate keen observation, logical and analytical thinking ○ are highly intelligent, intellectually superior to others ○ have the ability to see things that others do not ○ have a strong moral compass and are driven by the desire to do good and seek justice What are typical methods of the “detective archetype?”  Their methods: the art of deduction The Art of Deduction: ○ the process of using logical reasoning to draw conclusions from available information, observations or evidence often by eliminating possibilities and narrowing down the truth through careful analysis and insight  Their methods: the art of deduction Detective will examine physical and forensic evidence carefully; they usually: ○ tend to notice and focus on seemingly insignificant physical evidence ○ create a psychological profile of suspects, trying to understand the psychological state of the perpetrator or the type of person they are looking for Their methods: the art of deduction Sherlock Deduction Scene  Their methods: the art of deduction “You see, but you do not observe.” Clue Deduction formal looking trousers going out for the night? trousers and shirt being too big for him, standard issued uniform for work? made of bad material hook on his belt for a walkie talkie? build, sole so feet and veins in legs a lot of walking, also a lot of sitting his watch did regular night shift, buttons have been touched a lot torn off insignia works somewhere recognizable soggy ticket stubs Worked for a museum or a gallery  Their methods: interrogation During an interrogation, detectives will… ○ ask pointed questions that lead the suspect to reveal inconsistencies or contradictions in their stories.  Their methods: interrogation Detectives typically build rapport with their suspects or witnesses by using psychological tactics Criminal Minds Interrogation ○ manipulating them to feel at ease or reveal more information; playing on someone’s guilt and fear ○ adopting a friendly demeanor, show empathy or use charm. What are the different types of “detectives?”  “The hard-boiled detective” Hard-Boiled Detective: ○ tough, gritty, cynical individuals (hence “hard-boiled) ○ “hardened” by experiences, with a no-nonsense attitude ○ rely more on brute, physical force ○ typically operate in a corrupt or morally ambiguous society ○ engage with the gritty physical world; rely on street smarts “The hard-boiled detective” view the justice system with skepticism strong sense of justice, but their methods might not always be considered “ethical” or even legal (violent measures, intimidation, breaking and entering, etc.) texts with the “hard-boiled” detective, have dark, urban settings with feelings of dread and doom “The hard-boiled detective” Examples: ○ Sam Spade created by Dashiell Hammett ○ Philip Marlowe created by Raymond Chandler  “The Hard-Boiled Detective” "The Maltese Falcon" Movie Trailer  “The armchair detective” The Armchair Detective: ○ intellectual, quirky, yet reserved, methodical (hence “armchair”) ○ rely on their intellect, reasoning, careful observation from a distance, often solving crimes without getting engaged in physical confrontations ○ “bookish” or academic in nature “The armchair detective” usually more polished physically, more polite, cultured and more optimistic strong sense of justice, but usually stronger moral code, generally following rules and laws. texts with the “armchair detective,” have more controlled, refined environments  “The armchair Detective” Hercule Poirot as "Quirky" Hercule Poirot's "Moral Compass"  “The armchair Detective” Sherlock Holmes as "Armchair" Basil Rathbone as "Sherlock Holmes"