Introduction
In previous articles, we introduced the Trickster archetype, featuring figures like Loki, Anansi and Raven [1] — enigmatic characters who emerge from the myths and legends of cultures around the globe. The Trickster, a master of disruption, thrives on challenging the status quo, breaking norms, and embodying the forces of chaos and transformation. But the Trickster is only one of many archetypes that shape human behaviour. Others, such as the Ruler, the Great Mother, the Sage, the Warrior, the Lover and the Magician, offer a unique lens through which we experience, interpret, and respond to the world. The forthcoming articles will delve into the archetypes most relevant to leadership. They will explore how many of the traits we value in successful leaders are deeply rooted in these archetypes and the myths and stories that give them life.
This article will focus on the Ruler archetype and its darker, tyrannical shadow, as illustrated through the myths of King Arthur and King Minos. However, before we delve into these stories, let us first explore the concept of an archetype in greater depth and consider its relevance to leadership success.
Archetypes
Carl Jung introduced archetypes, postulating that they are common universal patterns that shape how we perceive and respond to the world. Specifically, he suggested that archetypes are part of the collective unconscious, arguing that archetypal patterns are shared across cultures and are stable through time. Archetypes emerge throughout our lives, influencing us based on our specific challenges, roles, and contexts. Certain archetypes hold primacy at various stages of life or in different situations — meaning that they dominate our motivations, thoughts, and behaviours.
For example, in leadership, different archetypes appear based on situational needs. During a crisis, the Warrior archetype may take the lead, driving a leader to act with courage, decisiveness, and a focus on defending or protecting the organisation. In more reflective or planning-oriented moments, the Sage archetype might rise to the forefront, guiding a leader to seek wisdom, reflection, and long-term strategy. This fluid movement between archetypes is vital to psychological maturity, allowing leaders to respond flexibly and effectively to a wide range of situations.
While the core characteristics of archetypes are universal, they are fractal — meaning that they manifest in similar ways across different contexts but take on unique expressions based on the specific situation or role an individual is in [2]. For example, the Magician archetype, associated with transformation, creativity and insight, manifests differently depending on the context. In a CEO, the Magician might show up as a visionary driving innovation within the company, transforming ideas into products or services that disrupt markets and lead the company to success. In a parent, the Magician archetype guides their children to unlock their potential. In each case, the core traits of transformation and vision remain, but the expression changes based on the individual's role.
The fractal nature of archetypes allows for broad applicability in understanding behaviour across contexts. Leaders attuned to their manifesting archetype can consciously adjust their actions, ensuring they are most appropriate for the situation. A mature leader, for example, intuitively knows when to draw on the Ruler’s authority, the Warrior's courage, or the Sage's wisdom — depending on whether the situation calls for decisiveness, bold action, or thoughtful reflection.
Archetypes' Shadow
In Jungian psychology, every archetype possesses a shadow — the unconscious, often negative, facets of its expression. The Warrior's shadow, for instance, manifests as excessive aggression, fostering unnecessary conflict and burnout. The journey of individuation, the path to psychological maturity, requires confronting and integrating these shadow elements [3]. For leaders, this entails recognising the unconscious drivers of their behaviour and learning to direct these impulses intentionally. By incorporating both the light and shadow aspects of archetypes, leaders can transcend the grip of their unconscious, enabling them to make decisions with clarity, balance, and self-awareness.
In summary, archetypes offer profound insights into the light and shadow aspects of leadership behaviour, enabling leaders to understand their motivations better and adapt their actions to meet the demands of different situations. Through individuation, leaders can fully integrate these archetypes, bring them under conscious control and thus expand their behavioural repertoire — enhancing their ability to respond maturely and effectively to the challenges they encounter.
The Ruler Archetype
With this understanding of archetypes and the importance of integrating their light and shadow elements, we can now turn our attention to the Ruler archetype. Stories, whether in myths, films, or literature, offer a powerful lens through which we unconsciously recognise archetypal patterns, helping us understand the motivations and behaviours of characters. As we watch or read these stories, we instinctively seek out archetypal behaviours, which inform our perceptions of leadership, power, and authority.
The Ruler archetype is central to effective leadership, embodying authority, responsibility, and the ability to create order. However, its shadow is exemplified by tyranny and domination.
The Legend of King Arthur
King Arthur's story begins with his conception [4]. Uther Pendragon, Arthur's father, disguises himself as Duke Gorlois of Cornwall with the help of the wizard Merlin to be with Igraine, Gorlois' wife [5, 6, 7]. Arthur is born from this union. To protect the newborn, Merlin gives him to Sir Ector to raise in secret, hiding Arthur's royal lineage from enemies. Raised alongside Sir Ector's son, Kay, Arthur grows up unaware of his true identity [8,9,10].
When King Uther dies, Britain is left without a successor, plunging the kingdom into chaos. A sword appears in a stone, inscribed with the message that whoever pulls it free will be the rightful king of Britain [11]. While attending a tournament with Sir Kay, Arthur innocently pulls the sword from the stone, proving his legitimacy as king. Though some lords initially resist, Arthur is crowned King of Britain and begins to unite the fractured kingdom.
During the early consolidation of his reign, Arthur encounters Morgause, unaware that she is his half-sister. Their brief union leads to the conception of Mordred, a child destined to bring betrayal and conflict.
Arthur establishes the Round Table, a powerful symbol of equality and unity among his knights’ where all are regarded as equals in their pursuit of justice and chivalry [13]. Among these knights is Lancelot, renowned for his exceptional skill in battle and unwavering devotion to chivalry, who is knighted as one of Arthur's most trusted warriors [14]. His knighthood further reinforces the ideals of fairness and collaboration, contributing to a period of peace and prosperity for the kingdom.
Arthur's marriage to Guinevere further strengthens his reign. As queen, Guinevere plays a pivotal role in the early part of Arthur's rule, embodying the virtues of grace and nobility. Her presence helps to preserve Camelot's stability, fostering a sense of unity and further promoting the ideals of chivalry and honour among the knights, solidifying the kingdom's foundation.
During the Battle of Bedegraine, one of the crucial conflicts to unify the kingdom, Arthur's sword is broken, leaving him vulnerable on the battlefield. Following this event, Arthur encounters the Lady of the Lake, a mystical figure who presents him with Excalibur, a magical sword [15]. Excalibur grants Arthur near invincibility in battle. Its scabbard has the mystical power to prevent Arthur from bleeding, making him nearly indestructible. This powerful gift strengthens Arthur's position as king and signifies the divine support behind his reign, reinforcing his destiny to unite and lead the realm [16].
Merlin continues supporting Arthur throughout his reign, offering wisdom and magical aid. However, Merlin falls deeply in love with Nimue, the Lady of the Lake, and in his infatuation, he teaches her his magical secrets [17]. Nimue then uses this knowledge to imprison Merlin, sealing him in a crystal tomb [18]. With Merlin gone, Arthur is left to lead without the mystical support that had long guided him. This marks a crucial shift, as Arthur must now face the growing challenges of his kingdom relying solely on his own and his knight's judgment, with the outcome of his reign no longer determined by mystical influence.
During the height of Arthur's reign, Morgan le Fay, driven by jealousy and a desire to weaken her half-brother, devises a plan to steal the scabbard of Excalibur [19]. Using sorcery and deception, Morgan tricks Arthur by creating a duplicate scabbard, switching the real one with the false one. Once possessing the genuine scabbard, Morgan throws it into a lake, ensuring that Arthur will no longer benefit from its mystical protection [20]. This event marks the turning point of Arthur's reign and the beginning of the erosion of his control.
The most extraordinary quest undertaken by Arthur's knights is the search for the Holy Grail, a mystical object believed to grant divine power and healing. Knights like Sir Galahad and Sir Percival embark on this noble yet profoundly individual journey, seeking spiritual purity. However, while the quest is virtuous, it fragments the unity of the Round Table, as many knights either fail or never return [21, 22]
More trouble strikes when Guinevere and Lancelot's affair is revealed. Their affair causes significant divisions among the knights. Lancelot's eventual exile and Guinevere's near execution for treason further weaken Arthur's rule, driving the once-unified kingdom into conflict [23].
During this time, Mordred, Arthur's illegitimate son, seizes the throne while the king is away fighting Lancelot [24]. Mordred's betrayal is rooted in a prophecy that foretold he would bring about Arthur's downfall, fuelling Mordred's belief that he is entitled to the throne. The Battle of Camlann marks the culmination of the prophecy, where Arthur mortally wounds Mordred but is fatally wounded himself, sealing the downfall of Camelot [25].
Following the battle, the wounded Arthur is taken by a group of women, including Morgan le Fay and the Lady of the Lake, to the mystical isle of Avalon [26,27]. There, it is foretold that Arthur will return to Britain when the country needs him most, becoming the Once and Future King.
After Arthur's departure, Camelot falls into ruin, and the Round Table disbands, symbolising the fragility of power and the devastating consequences of betrayal, marking the tragic end of his reign. The collapse reflects human institutions' vulnerability, idealism's downfall, and the corruption of Arthur's dream for a just society. Yet, his legend endures as a timeless symbol of hope and justice, with Arthur embodying the enduring ideal of the Ruler archetype.
Arthur the Benevolent Ruler
At the core of the Benevolent Ruler archetype is a ruler's dedication to serving others, ensuring that power is used to benefit the collective well-being rather than to fulfil personal ambitions. In King Arthur's story, his rise to power is marked by humility. Arthur grows up unaware of his royal lineage, learning the virtues of modesty and developing a deep sense of duty to the people he will one day lead. This humble beginning instils in him the foundational quality of humility, a trait essential to the Benevolent Ruler archetype
The vision for Camelot — a fair and just society — is shaped by Merlin's Magician archetype [28]. Merlin provides the visionary spark, imagining Camelot as a kingdom built on equality, chivalry, and justice. However, it is Arthur who brings this vision into real-world practice. Through his leadership, Arthur takes the mythical ideals of Camelot and, by establishing the Round Table, enacts a new model of governance based on collaboration and fairness. Arthur's role in realising this vision transforms abstract ideals into a functioning society where justice and the common good are more than concepts — they become the foundation of his kingdom.
Humility and Fairness: As a Benevolent Ruler, Arthur wields his authority with humility and fairness, earning the respect and trust of his people. His leadership is not about domination but about serving the needs of the people and maintaining stability. When he pulls the sword from the stone, Arthur's authority is legitimised not by personal ambition but by his destiny to unite Britain. His decision to establish the Round Table exemplifies his commitment to selfless leadership, where power is shared, collaboration is encouraged, and all voices are heard. Arthur positions himself first among equals, demonstrating that true leadership is about service rather than control.
Order and Stability: A vital responsibility of the Ruler archetype is to ensure order and stability within the kingdom. Arthur is deeply committed to maintaining a well-ordered realm, as shown by his efforts to unify Britain and establish a stable government. His victory at the Battle of Bedegraine, where he brings the kingdom's warring factions together, demonstrates his dedication to creating a peaceful and united land. Beyond military success, Arthur institutes laws and codes of conduct, such as the chivalric code, to ensure that justice and honour govern the actions of his knights. This focus on order allows Camelot to flourish, providing a stable foundation for a just society.
Selflessness and Responsibility: His unwavering sense of responsibility further defines Arthur's leadership to his people. He views kingship as a sacred trust, understanding that power comes with the obligation to serve the kingdom selflessly. For Arthur, the role of king is not about personal glory but about ensuring the welfare of the realm; his response to crises, such as Lancelot and Guinevere's betrayal, shows a leader who prioritises the stability of the kingdom through fair governance, putting the needs of the kingdom above his grievances. This demonstrates Arthur's deep commitment to maintaining the greater good, even during personal turmoil.
Wisdom: Arthur's leadership wisdom is reflected in his ability to balance compassion with the kingdom's needs. Throughout his reign, Arthur makes decisive choices, often without Merlin's guidance, relying instead on his judgment to navigate the kingdom's challenges. His leadership during critical battles, like Bedegraine, showcases his ability to act decisively in times of crisis, always to preserve peace and justice for the kingdom. His decisions are grounded in wisdom, balancing the immediate needs of the realm with his long-term vision for a just society.
Integrity and Justice: one further defining feature of the Benevolent Ruler archetype is the ruler's commitment to integrity and justice. Arthur's reign is characterised by his dedication to creating a fair and just society where the laws are applied equally to all, regardless of rank or status. His Round Table symbolises equality, where knights of all backgrounds unite to serve justice. Even when faced with personal betrayals, such as Lancelot and Guinevere's affair, Arthur remains committed to justice, ensuring that the kingdom's laws are upheld impartially. His leadership embodies moral integrity, clearly focusing on protecting the weak and ensuring justice prevails over personal vendettas.
Standard Setting: Arthur's dedication to justice and fairness is most evident in establishing the chivalric code, which provides a moral framework for the knights of the Round Table. This code ensures that knights are bound to the principles of honour, loyalty and service, reinforcing Arthur's desire to create a society where power is used for the collective good. His Round Table symbolises this justice, where the most powerful knights are held accountable to the same standards as the commoner.
Power and Control: Arthur's story showcases the virtues of a Benevolent Ruler and reveals the shadow side of the Ruler archetype — driven by the fear of losing power. As his reign progresses, Arthur becomes haunted by dreams foretelling his demise at the hands of Mordred. In a desperate attempt to prevent the prophecy from being fulfilled, Arthur orders the killing of noble newborns, mirroring Herod's infamous decree [29]. This fear-driven decision illustrates the tyrannical shadow of the Ruler archetype, where the obsession with maintaining control eclipses the ruler's commitment to justice. Arthur's preemptively eliminating potential threats reflects a typical pattern in history where leaders resort to tyrannical actions to preserve their rule when confronted with the possibility of losing power.
Business Exemplars of the Benevolent Ruler Archetype
Successful modern business leaders like Satya Nadella at Microsoft, Mary Barra at General Motors, and Marvin Ellison at Lowe's embody the positive traits of the Ruler archetype. These leaders focus on serving wider society and establishing order, stability and responsibility within their organisations. Under Nadella's leadership, Microsoft has successfully pivoted towards cloud computing and AI, reinforcing the company's market dominance through strategic governance and operational excellence. Similarly, Barra has guided GM through a transformative phase, emphasising electric vehicle innovation while maintaining a stable and profitable organisation.
Marvin Ellison's leadership at Lowe's is a quintessential example of the Ruler archetype. Stepping in during a challenging period, he focused on reestablishing order and structure. Ellison guided the company towards sustainable growth by optimising supply chains, improving customer service, and reinforcing core retail principles. His commitment to addressing the needs of all stakeholders — from employees to customers — reflects the Ruler's archetypal dedication to governance with a sense of duty and responsibility.
Summary
Arthur's story and the leadership of business figures like Satya Nadella, Mary Barra, and Marvin Ellison demonstrate the positive traits of the Ruler archetype: establishing order, stability, and serving the collective good. Arthur's reign, focused on justice and the well-being of Camelot, shows how a leader can use their authority to create a thriving society. Similarly, business leaders like Nadella, Barra, and Ellison have guided their companies through transformative periods by prioritising responsible governance, strategic implementation, and stakeholder value — embodying the Ruler's commitment to responsible stewardship.
The Ruler's Shadow
Arthur's narrative also warns of the Ruler archetype's shadow side. His fear of losing power leads to desperate actions that mirror the pitfalls of leaders who, when threatened, become tyrannical. To fully understand the Ruler archetype, exploring this darker aspect in more detail is necessary.
Throughout history and mythology, many stories illustrate the darker aspects of the Ruler archetype, where the pursuit of power and control spirals into tyranny. King Xerxes of Persia, driven by ambition and hubris, leads a vast army against Greece, undone by his overconfidence. Emperor Nero's reign is marked by cruelty and excess, showcasing the destructive potential of unchecked authority. Initially a despotic ruler, King Gilgamesh learns through personal suffering that successful leadership demands humility [30]. However, King Minos' tale encapsulates the full spectrum of the Ruler's shadow, revealing how the thirst for power leads to tyranny.
King Minos of Crete
King Minos was the son of Zeus and Europa, born into a divine and noble lineage. He grew up on the island of Crete alongside his brothers, Rhadamanthys and Sarpedon [31, 32]. Upon the death of Crete's king, Asterion, Minos claimed the throne, asserting his divine right to rule [33]. To prove his legitimacy, Minos prayed to Poseidon, the god of the sea, asking for a sign. Poseidon sent a magnificent white bull, which Minos promised to sacrifice in the god's honour.
However, Minos, struck by the bull's beauty, decides to keep it and sacrifices a different one in its place. Angered by this betrayal, Poseidon cursed Minos and his household. He caused Minos' wife, Pasiphaë, to fall in love with the bull [34]. Consumed by her unnatural desire, Pasiphaë sought the help of Daedalus, a skilled craftsman and inventor. Daedalus constructed a wooden cow in which Pasiphaë hid, allowing her to mate with the bull. The Minotaur was born from this union — a monstrous creature, half-man, half-bull [35].
The Minotaur was uncontrollable, and Minos commissioned Daedalus to build the Labyrinth, a massive, intricate maze, to contain the beast. Near the palace of Knossos, the Labyrinth became a dark symbol of Minos' reign, a place of imprisonment and despair.
Minos' son, Androgeos, was killed under suspicious circumstances while in Athens [36]. Enraged by the death of his son, Minos waged war against the city and emerged victorious. As punishment, he imposed a brutal tribute: every nine years, Athens was required to send seven young men and seven young women to Crete to be sacrificed to the Minotaur. This cruel cycle of human sacrifice reinforced Minos' reputation as a harsh and unforgiving ruler.
Theseus, a prince of Athens, vowed to end this suffering. He volunteered to be one of the tributes and journeyed to Crete. With the help of Minos' daughter, Ariadne, who fell in love with him, Theseus navigated the Labyrinth and killed the Minotaur, liberating Athens from Minos' oppressive demands. Daedalus, the architect of the Labyrinth, secretly aided Theseus by providing Ariadne with a ball of thread, which Theseus used to trace his way back after defeating the Minotaur.
Minos' rage knew no bounds when he discovered that Daedalus had helped Theseus. In retaliation, he imprisoned Daedalus and his son Icarus in the Labyrinth [37]. They managed to escape using wings crafted from feathers and wax, but Icarus flew too close to the sun, causing the wax to melt, and he fell into the sea and drowned [38].
Determined to capture Daedalus, Minos set out on a relentless pursuit. He travelled from island to island, holding a unique contest to identify the master inventor. He would present a challenge of threading a spiral seashell, knowing that only Daedalus would be clever enough to solve it. Eventually, Minos arrived in Sicily and presented the same challenge at King Cocalus's court. Daedalus, living there, quickly solved the puzzle [39].
Recognising Daedalus' handiwork, Minos demanded that King Cocalus surrender him. Cocalus, not wanting to give up his guest, invited Minos to stay for a feast, promising to hand over Daedalus later. However, Cocalus' daughters devised a plan to kill Minos instead [40]. As Minos took a bath, boiling oil was poured over him, leading to his death.
In death, Minos' role as judge of the dead in the underworld symbolises the duality of human nature and the potential for transformation. Known in life for his strict justice and authority, he was appointed to this position to reflect both his capacity for fairness and the possibility of redemption. His story, from ruler of Crete to arbiter of souls, represents the balance between divine favour and the consequences of human pride, defiance, and the misuse of power. It is a cautionary tale about leadership, emphasising the complexities and responsibilities inherent in wielding authority.
Minos the Tyrant
King Minos of Crete exemplifies the shadow side of the Ruler archetype through a series of actions that highlight the dark traits associated with tyrannical leadership. These characteristics include despotism, oppression, authoritarianism, paranoia, greed, arrogance, manipulation, and fear of change.
Tyranny and Oppression: Minos' harsh and oppressive rule is most evident in his treatment of Athens after the death of his son, Androgeos. Minos imposes a tribute: Athens must send seven young men and seven young women to Crete to be sacrificed to the Minotaur every nine years. This cycle of human sacrifice is a testament to Minos' tyrannical nature [41].
Manipulation and Deception: Minos' manipulation of the tribute system is a masterclass in psychological tyranny. Every nine years, the demand for human sacrifices is a relentless reminder of his power and the potential for even greater retribution. Athens complies due to the looming fear that Minos might exact an even harsher punishment if they resist. This tribute becomes a tool of oppression, a constant symbol of Minos' dominance over Athens. By maintaining the cycle of fear, Minos ensures that the Athenians remain subjugated and obedient, highlighting the insidious nature of his rule. This ongoing psychological pressure, coupled with the devastating consequence of the Minotaur's existence, exemplifies the true extent of Minos' tyranny and the effectiveness of his manipulation.
Authoritarianism and Despotism: Minos' desire for absolute control extends to his household and advisors. He imprisons Daedalus and Icarus in the Labyrinth that Daedalus designed, fearing that the inventor's knowledge of the structure could be used against him. This action showcases his despotic tendencies, where anyone with the potential to challenge his authority is ruthlessly suppressed.
Paranoia and Insecurity: Minos' paranoia is demonstrated by his relentless pursuit of Daedalus after the latter escapes from Crete. This obsessive hunt for Daedalus reflects Minos' deep-seated insecurity, fearing that the inventor might reveal secrets that could undermine his power or lead to his downfall.
Greed and Exploitation: Minos' greed is evident in his refusal to sacrifice the magnificent white bull sent by Poseidon. By breaking his promise to the god, Minos reveals his self-serving nature — his desire to possess and control what he finds valuable, even at the expense of divine retribution. This act of greed leads to the birth of the Minotaur, symbolising the destructive consequences of his avarice.
Arrogance and Hubris: Minos' pride and arrogance are defining features of his rule. He believes he can deceive the gods by sacrificing a bull different from the one promised to Poseidon. This hubris not only incurs the god's wrath but also brings ruin upon his household. His belief that he could outwit the divine highlights his excessive pride.
Fear of Change: Minos' rigid enforcement of the tribute system over many cycles and harsh rule over Crete illustrates his fear of losing power and control. His inability to adapt or to show mercy ultimately leads to his downfall. Even pursuing Daedalus, Minos demonstrates an inability to change his approach, further symbolising his resistance to transformation.
Minos' story, filled with oppression, cruelty, and relentless pursuit of control, is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power. His legacy is of wasted time and the destructive consequences that befall a ruler who succumbs to the tyrannical shadow of the Ruler archetype.
The Tyrant Leader in Organisations
The shadow side of the Ruler archetype in the workplace is characterised by authoritarianism, an overbearing need for control, and an inability to delegate effectively. Such leaders often create a toxic environment where creativity is stifled and organisational growth is hindered. They micromanage, mistrust their team members, and suppress dissent, fearing that any deviation from their rigid view will undermine their authority. This behaviour not only obstructs development but also quashes initiative and innovation.
At its extreme, authoritarian leadership resorts to manipulation and fear to maintain compliance, using threats of severe consequences to enforce their will. Their inflexibility and resistance to change prevent the organisation from adapting to new challenges, while their arrogance blinds them to potential pitfalls. These patterns lead to declining morale, high employee turnover, and a stagnant or regressive organisation, ultimately undermining the stability and order they seek to protect.
When does the pursuit of control in leadership cross the line? It is a nuanced balance heavily influenced by context, but it can quickly tip from effective governance to toxicity. Leaders like Bill Gates during his early years at Microsoft exemplify this delicate tension. While his intense focus and high standards drove the company to remarkable success, his relentless micromanagement and intolerance for dissent created a high-pressure environment that many found suffocating. Though effective in the short term, his approach risked alienating his team and stifling creativity.
The case of Howell Raines at The New York Times starkly demonstrates the dangers of a leadership style that devolves into paranoia and rigidity. As executive editor, Raines enforced a strict, top-down approach that silenced open dialogue and discouraged dissent. His insistence on absolute control fostered an environment where concerns were suppressed, and crucial oversight was weakened. This atmosphere of fear and silence allowed the Jayson Blair scandal to occur, with Blair's fabrications and ethical breaches going unnoticed due to the lack of adequate checks and balances. Ultimately, this failure in leadership led to a severe loss of credibility for the newspaper and Raines' resignation, illustrating how unchecked authoritarianism can erode trust, transparency, and the integrity of an organisation.
Summary
The Benevolent Ruler archetype is essential for effective leadership, characterised by integrity, responsibility, and a commitment to the greater good. Such leaders use their power to create order and stability, acting with humility and wisdom to serve their stakeholders selflessly. They encourage collaboration and empower others, fostering a just and equitable culture. In contrast, the shadow side of this archetype manifests as tyranny, where the thirst for control leads to oppression, authoritarianism, and exploitation. Authoritarian leaders micromanage, distrust their teams, and suppress dissent, creating a toxic environment that stifles innovation and growth. Their paranoia, arrogance, and resistance to change prevent them from adapting.
The demand for adaptive and collaborative leadership has never been higher. Leaders trapped in authoritarian habits must evolve or face irrelevance. If your need for control overshadows collaboration and trust, it is time to address your tyrannical shadow.
References
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Awakening the Heroes Within Twelve Archetypes to Help Us Find Ourselves and Transform Our World, Pearson, 2016
Hero Within - Rev. & Expanded Ed.: Six Archetypes We Live By (Revised & Expanded Edition), Pearson, 2016
Historia Regum Britanniae, Geoffrey of Monmouth (Author), MythBank (Contributor), 2019
The History of the Kings of Britain: Including the Stories of King Arthur and the Prophesies of Merlin, Monmouth, 2015
Jung: A Very Short Introduction, Stevens, 1994
Jung: A Very Short Introduction, Stevens, 2001
King Warrior Magician Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature Masculine, Moore, Robert, Gillette & Douglas,1991
Le Morte d'Arthur: King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, Malory, 2015
Map of the Soul – Persona: Our Many Faces, Stein, 2019
Man and His Symbols, Jung, 2023
Meeting the Shadow, Zweig and Abrams, 2023
Memories, Dreams, Reflections, Jung, 1995
Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche – paperback illustrated, Johnson, 1994
Shadow Dance: Liberating the Power and Creativity of Your Dark Side, Richo, 1999
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Footnote
[1] The Trickster is introduced in the articles "Surviving the Deluge" and "Loki's Shadow".
[2] Jungian archetypes, like snowflakes, display a fractal nature, with repeating patterns that are unique yet share a common structure. Both illustrate the concept of self-similarity across different contexts and scales.
[3] The shadow is discussed in the article "Shadows of Leadership".
[4] Arthur's conception relies on natural and supernatural forces, symbolising that Arthur is unique and destined for greatness and that his rule is sanctioned by the divine. His rule is part of a greater cosmic plan.
[5] Uther Pendragon was the High King of Britain.
[6] Duke Gorlois of Cornwall was a loyal nobleman under Uther Pendragon. Still, when Uther became enamoured with Igraine, Gorlois defied him by fleeing with her to his fortress at Tintagel Castle. This act of defiance prompted Uther to lay siege to the castle. Gorlois was killed in battle, defending his honour as Uther bedded Igraine. Gorlois' death symbolises the moral complexity of power, foreshadowing the betrayals that haunt Arthur's reign.
[7] Merlin is a powerful wizard and advisor in Arthurian legend, guiding Arthur's rise and the fate of Britain, symbolising wisdom and magic, and balancing mystical and mortal worlds.
[8] Sir Ector, Arthur's foster father, represents loyalty and honour. His role in raising Arthur instils the future king with a sense of humility and a solid moral foundation.
[9] Sir Kay is arrogant and reckless. He is the foil to Arthur's nobility. He symbolises flawed human nature and the difficulties of living up to the standards of chivalry.
[10] During his upbringing, Arthur embodies the concept of the "hidden king," in contrast to Kay's entitled yet imperfect character — highlighting that true greatness arises not from birth or privilege but from inner virtue and merit.
[11] The sword is placed in the stone by Merlin, embodying the theme of a divinely chosen king, where destiny, guided by higher powers, not ambition or heritage, determines rightful rule.
[12] In other versions of the legend, Morgause's sister, Morgan le Fay, is depicted as Mordred's mother.
[13] The Round Table symbolises equality, chivalry, and the shared responsibility of leadership while representing the infinite and eternal nature of Arthur's legacy and the knights' pursuit of justice.
[14] Lancelot quickly becomes one of Arthur's most trusted and celebrated knights. His presence at the Round Table exemplifies chivalry and the unity and strength of Camelot during its golden age.
[15] The Lady of the Lake symbolises the mystical and divine forces guiding Arthur, representing wisdom, transformation, and supernatural intervention in leadership.
[16] Arthur's sword shattering symbolises the fragility of power and the fact that successful kings rely not just on physical might to rule effectively. This vulnerability marks a turning point in his development as a leader. Excalibur's mystical power reinforces Arthur's right to rule, symbolising that true leadership is a balance of strength, wisdom, and the support of the divine.
[17] Nimue is typically portrayed as the Lady of the Lake who gave Excalibur to Arthur. Sometimes she is described as an entirely different mythical figure.
[18] Nimue is a complex character with various interpretations of her motives. The interpretation that resonates most with me portrays her as a neutral figure whose role is to ensure destiny unfolds as it should. By capturing Merlin, she prevents him from interfering in critical events, such as Lancelot and Guinevere's affair and the roles of Morgan le Fay and Mordred in the eventual fall of Camelot. In this view, Nimue is a guardian of fate, ensuring the story progresses without disruption.
[19] Morgan le Fay is Igraine's and Gorlois' daughter. She is a powerful sorceress and Arthur's half-sister.
[20] The loss of the scabbard symbolises the erosion of divine support that had safeguarded Arthur's reign — foreshadowing Arthur's eventual downfall and the betrayal by those closest to him.
[21] The Holy Grail quest symbolises the knights' pursuit of spiritual purity and divine grace, where only the pure, like Sir Percival, succeed. For others, their flaws prevent success, highlighting the gap between human aspiration and perfection. This failure leads to the fragmentation of Camelot, marking the beginning of the kingdom's moral and structural decline. The article "The Fisher King's Wisdom" covers one version of the legend in more detail.
[22] In the quest for the Holy Grail, the Fisher King's kingdom is withering due to the king's incapacity. This story parallels Camelot's plight, weakening as Arthur's rule falters. At this stage of the story, Camelot is a wounded kingdom needing healing and spiritual purity.
[23] Guinevere symbolises Camelot, which is beautiful and noble but ultimately fragile. She is sentenced to burn at the stake for treason, as her affair with Lancelot is seen as a betrayal to King Arthur. Lancelot rescued her, leading to battles between his forces and the king's knights.
[24] Mordred represents the manifestation of sin, born from Arthur's moral transgression through his incestuous union with Morgause (or Morgan le Fay). Incest, a violation of the cosmic order, positions Mordred as the embodiment of Arthur's repressed shadow. He symbolises the consequences of incomplete individuation, where unresolved elements of the psyche remain dormant, waiting to emerge. Although Arthur matures and grows throughout his life, Mordred's existence reminds us that, even after atonement, the consequences of past actions linger. The symbolism highlights that unresolved sins can resurface with devastating impact, threatening everything one has built.
[25] The prophecy foretells Mordred's role in the destruction of Camelot, focusing on his betrayal and Arthur's downfall without suggesting that Mordred is destined to become king.
[26] The sorceress, Morgan le Fay, is a complex figure in Arthurian legend. Her character shifts between antagonist and protector, embodying themes of betrayal, revenge, loyalty, and the duality of magic — both destructive and healing. She represents the mystical balance between life and death, fulfilling her role in the divine order as a guide between the mortal and supernatural realms.
[27] Avalon symbolises healing, immortality, and the mystical bridge between life and death. As a place outside time, it represents the promise of Arthur's eventual return and the enduring hope for restoring justice and leadership.
[28] The Magician archetype will be covered in later articles in this series.
[29] Arthur, warned by Merlin, attempts to kill Mordred as a child by sending all May Day-born infants to sea. The ship wrecked, and most children perish, but Mordred survives and is secretly raised in Orkney by Morgause and King Lot.
[30] Gilgamesh's story is introduced in the article “The Fisher King’s Wisdom”.
[31] Europa was a Phoenician princess in Greek mythology, renowned for her beauty. Zeus, the king of the gods, fell in love with her and transformed himself into a gentle white bull to gain her trust. As Europa climbed onto his back, Zeus carried her across the sea to the island of Crete. He revealed his divine identity there, making Europa the first queen of Crete.
[32] Europa had three sons with Zeus: Minos, Rhadamanthys, and Sarpedon. Rhadamanthys became one of the judges of the dead in the underworld, and Sarpedon, King of Lycia, fought and died in the Trojan War.
[33] Zeus arranged the marriage between Europa and King Asterion of Crete after their arrival on the island. Asterion, childless himself, married Europa and adopted her sons, legitimising their rule and establishing the royal lineage in Crete.
[34] Pasiphaë, a powerful sorceress, is the daughter of the sun god Helios and the Oceanid Perse, making her sister to the enchantress Circe and aunt to the witch Medea. Known for her magical abilities, she is a figure of formidable supernatural power.
[35] The Minotaur symbolises the darker aspects of human nature, embodying primal instincts and the "shadow self" hidden within the labyrinth of the mind. The creature's dual nature, part man and part beast highlights the human psyche's eternal struggle between reason and instinct.
[36] King Aegeus of Athens is implicated in Androgeos' death, possibly due to fear of reputational damage caused by Androgeos' athletic victories, which overshadowed Athenian pride.
[37] Daedalus is renowned as an architect and inventor in Greek mythology. He symbolises human ingenuity and creativity, yet his story also reflects that wisdom and ethics must guide knowledge and innovation to avoid destructive outcomes.
[38] Icarus' tale is frequently used to highlight that 'pride goes before a fall'.
[39] Daedalus tied a thread to an ant, which crawled through the shell, pulling the thread behind it.
[40] It is unclear why Cocalus' daughters killed Minos; myths suggest it might have been to protect Daedalus or due to fear of Minos' retribution.
[41] From the legend it is unclear whether Minos used the Minotaur solely to subjugate Athens or to intimidate the people of Crete or other Greek states as part of his broader rule.