Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Archetypes and Symbols”

In this activity, students will examine archetypes and symbols in the novel and create their own creative work utilizing one or more of these devices.

The author of Echo Mountain uses archetypes and symbols to illustrate the characters, assist with plot development, and tie together the novel’s themes. An archetype is a common figure or type of person frequently found in literature and other creative works. A symbol is any object, person, or place that represents something beyond its literal form.

• Start your project by flagging instances in the novel where symbolism is heavily used or where you notice symbols repeating.
• Think about the characters in the novel: Are any of them archetypal?
• Create an original work that explores one of the symbols or archetypes in the novel. You might write a poem or a short story (with or without illustrations) or create a drawing or a painting.
• Upon completion, you will present your project to the class in a short 1-minute presentation.

Teaching Suggestion: Before beginning the activity, hold a brief class discussion to clarify the meaning of archetypes and symbols.