Hero Archetype: The Swashbuckler

When I started researching this blog, it was originally intended to cover the entire spectrum of hero archetypes. However, I quickly discovered there was way too much muscle-bound goodness to cover in just one blog. So, for the next several weeks, Inspiration, Ink. will be dedicating its Mondays to a different hero archetype (Now that is a "case of the Mondays" I can live with!) -- beginning with this week's hero:

The Swashbuckler

Typically the first thing that springs to mind when you hear the word swashbuckler is an ale-guzzling, sail-setting, skirt-chasing pirate. In this particular instance, that is not always the case. Take Maverick, for example. He falls nicely into the swashbuckler category because of his confidence and love of danger. He thrives on teetering on the edge of disaster, and isn't afraid to break a rule or two in the process. Maverick seeks out danger and flips it the bird just for fun.

There are actually two sub-categories who comfortably qualify for swashbuckler status -- the Daredevil (like our friend Maverick) and the Explorer. The Explorer is usually a tad more goal oriented, perhaps he's on a quest for an ancient artifact or a king's ransom in gold. Or maybe someone's kidnapped his girlfriend and stolen his truck and he is hellbent on getting them back, as was the case with Jack Burton's character in Big Trouble In Little China. Regardless of his end goal, this fella is going to do whatever it takes to get what he wants, consequences be darned.

While the swashbuckler does have a certain appeal, he also has drawbacks to accompany that sexy smile. For one, he is not the most dependable sort. He tends to be selfish at times, so intent is he on what he wants. And to top it all off, he's single-minded, stubborn and doesn't stay put for very long. It could make for some uncomfortable family gatherings when the hubby is a no-show because he's gone off half-cocked - again - on some crusade or other.

But, if you're a woman who can deal with midnight phone calls, canceled plans and bountiful good excuses, all the while getting your pants charmed off (possibly literally), this is definitely your man. It's a thrill a minute while you're in his company, and this sexy adrenaline junky never misses an opportunity to show a girl a good time.

Posted By: Tracy Preston

Don't forget to drop by next Monday when Teresa drops in to bring us our next hero archetype -- the Warrior.