Online Encyclopedia
Wise Old Man
The Wise Old Man is an archetype as described by Carl Gustav Jung. It is also a classic literary figure, and may be seen as a stock character.
In works of fiction, this kind of character is typically represented by an kind and wise, older father-type figure who uses personal knowledge of people and the world, to help tell stories and offer guidance, that in a mystical way illuminate to his audience a sense of who they are and who they might become.
Examples of notable wise old men in popular fiction
- Gandalf from J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth series
- Merlin from the Matter of Britain and the legends of King Arthur
- Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars
- Mr Miyagi from The Karate Kid
- Albus Dumbledore from J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter series
- Rafiki from the movie The Lion King
Last updated: 02-08-2005 08:15:13
Last updated: 02-22-2005 16:15:51