All grown-ups were once children… but only few of them remember it.
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: The Little Prince
The Innocent archetype symbolizes purity, simplicity, and childlike wonder. This archetype approaches life with openness, trust, and optimism, and believes in the inherent goodness of people and the beauty of the world around them, often finding joy in the simplest of pleasures.
The Innocent is able to maintain a sense of hope and resilience in the face of adversity, and this archetype can remind us of the purity, curiosity and wonder within each of us.
The Little Prince
Famous examples of The Innocent archetype in fiction would be for instance Paddington Bear, Winnie the Pooh, and Anna from Frozen.
One quintessential embodiment of The Innocent archetype is The Little Prince in the book by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. His pure heart, curiosity, and the childlike way he perceives the world around him is the perfect embodiment of this archetype.
The Little Prince wanders through the universe, encountering new worlds and many peculiar characters – among them the aviator, the rose, the fox, and his own reflection – approaching each encounter with openness and a sense of wonder, making him a timeless symbol of the purity of The Innocent inside all of us.
The Gifts The Innocent Can Bring Us:
Embracing The Innocent archetype can enrich our lives by allowing us to see the world with fresh eyes, unburdened by prejudice, intolerance, and cynicism. Aligning ourselves with this archetype, we can approach life with openness, curiosity, and a sense of wonder, allowing us to discover a deeper connection to the beauty and magic of the world around us.
The Dark Side of The Innocent:
Like all archetypes, The Innocent has a dark side. If it is unaligned or ignored, it can lead to naivety, vulnerability, and a lack of discernment. Its refusal to acknowledge the darker aspects of human nature can leave us susceptible to manipulation and disillusionment. Overindulging in this archetype can result in a failure to recognize that we have a responsibility for the world and its inhabitants.
Make Sure You Don’t Miss Out on Future Episodes
Click here to sign up for my newsletter so that you are always up to date on our adventurous journey through the rich tapestry of beloved fictional characters who embody timeless archetypal qualities. You will also get my free mini-course so that you can start integrating The Innocent and other archetypes in only 15 minutes.
