Heroine Archetype - The Seductress

Author: Anastasia V. Pergakis // Category:


The Seductress is also called the Bad Girl, the counterpart to the Bad Boy (obviously).

Here is a reminder of what I said in the first post when the ladies stripped.

The Seductress
This lady knows what she wants and gets it - her way. She sizes up every person whenever she enters a room. Her charming smile hides her distrust in people. Often mysterious and manipulative. Her survivial means she'll go to any lengths to make sure she comes out on top. Cynicism rules her actions.

Now, let's dig a little deeper!

The Good Side

>Is often cynical
>Has an understanding of her own and other people's motives
>Often uses her sex appeal to get what she wants (but not necessarily sex)
>Easily manipulates any man (especially those in her way)
>Her eye is always on the prize

The Bad Side

>Often comes from a poor family and trying to move up the chain
>Easily holds a grudge - for a long, long time
>Will stab anyone in the back to get her way or reach her goal
>Sort of a loner, doesn't have many friends
>Very possessive of her property (or people)

Now of course some of the good points could be considered bad if taken too far and the bad ones can be considered good if done the right way. It's fun to play with the traits that way, especially when it can create a plot twist or two!

Examples

> Sarah Connor in Terminator 2: Judgement Day (played by Linda Hamilton)
> Selene in Underworld (played by Kate Beckinsale)
> Eva PerĂ³n in Evita (played by Madonna)

What other examples of a Seductress or Bad Girl can you think of? Do you have one of these types of girls in your stories? Tell us about her!

Remember that these archetypes are simply the basic materials to help you mold your characters. Many characters fall under more than one archetype. Think about some of the great combinations you can create for your characters as these posts continue.

Coming Next: Heroine Archetype - The Free Spirit

2 Responses to "Heroine Archetype - The Seductress"

Alex J. Cavanaugh Says :
December 7, 2010 at 6:02 PM

You said the magic word - Kate Beckinsale!!!

I'm working on the sequel to my book and there's a strong female character. (My first!) She's not a bad girl - just tough and not afraid to speak her mind. Perfect counterpart for Byron!

Anastasia V. Pergakis Says :
December 7, 2010 at 6:22 PM

Alex: I'm a fan Kate Beckinsale too. Have fun with your tough chick. I love writing those types of characters, as they appeal to my own tough side! :) Is she going to be a romantic element for Byron or just a new character?

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