Archetypes of care and empathy: representation of the European woman as a cultural mediator in the cinematic Western genre
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The purpose of this article is to examine the archetypes of the European woman as a cultural mediator in the cinematic Western genre, based on the methodological foundations of Carol S. Pearson’s archetype classification. The study focuses particularly on the archetypes of care and empathy. The methodology. The research employs an interdisciplinary approach combining: a narrative analysis of film plots and character development in selected Westerns; an archetypal analysis grounded in Pearson’s typology (Caregiver, Lover, Innocent, Sage, etc.); film studies / art-studies methods to assess visual representation, semiotics, and cinematic context; a cultural-historical lens to interpret those archetypes within broader mythological and gendered narrative traditions. The results. It is demonstrated that female characters in Westerns frequently enact Caregiver archetypes, embodying values of protection, compassion, and self-sacrifice, and function as cultural mediators between conflicting groups. In several cases, these Caregivers also enact the Lover archetype, highlighting love as a transformative force — and at times the Innocent archetype, stressing moral integrity and openness despite trauma. Female agency, in these portrayals, manifests through emotional depth, caring actions, and narrative roles that redirect conflict resolution beyond armed struggle. The scientific novelty. The study addresses a notable gap in Western film scholarship by systematically examining female heroic archetypes, which have historically been overshadowed by male-centered narratology. By integrating Pearson’s typology with art-studies and gender analysis, the article theorizes a new intersection — female archetypal agency in Westerns as cultural mediation and compassionate leadership — rather than mere passive roles. The practical significance. The findings enrich film analysis curricula by expanding archetypal frameworks to include women’s roles in genres traditionally seen as male-dominated. These insights are valuable for screenwriters, directors, and cultural critics to foster more nuanced female characters. The study also offers a conceptual toolkit for gender and myth studies, enabling deeper exploration of non-violent heroism and cross-cultural mediation in media narratives.
Source: Culture of Ukraine
Author: O. Kosachova
Institution: Kharkiv State Academy of Culture
Language: English
Topic: Cinema History and Criticism
Subfield: Visual Arts and Performing Arts
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Gender equality
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414615209
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