The Trickster Archetype

Course Description

The Trickster is a particular kind of shadow figure that is also closely related to play and creativity. And sometimes the Trickster is humorous. It evokes spontaneity or asks us to play with rigid boundaries. It may make us uncomfortable, yet intrigue us at the same time. 

Craig Chalquist, the teacher of this course, has extensive expertise in folklore and a profound understanding of psychological depths. He weaves together ancient wisdom and modern insights as he examines the Trickster through a Jungian lens. 

We will learn from examples of Trickster acts that can be found in myth and folklore, film, fiction, current events, and daily life. He will also explore what triggers the Trickster into action and what recurring images & motifs identify the presence of the Trickster. He will discuss how this figure shows up in us, and how we can move with it from chaos and bewilderment to humor and insight. 

This course is ideal if

• Want to expand your knowledge of depth psychology and the Trickster archetype in particular.
• Are interested in personal development, and are looking to integrate psychological concepts into your journey.
• Are interested in exploring archetypal symbolism in mythology and folklore and how to apply them to individual and collective development.

Course Overview

Class 1: The Trickster Archetype 

In this first class of the course, Craig will explore the Trickster archetype. He addresses topics like:

• Working definitions of an archetype and the Trickster archetype in particular
• What Carl Jung said about the Trickster archetype
• Examples of the Trickster in the individuation process and on a collective level
• Key Trickster themes 

Class 2: The Trickster in Fiction, Film and Folklore

In this class Craig will deepen the understanding of Trickster by exploring folklore, fiction and film. Examining the Trickster archetype within folklore, fiction and film unveils profound insights into human nature. Through their clever behavior, Trickster figures embody adaptability and stimulate creative problem-solving. Folklore refers to stories -like tales, myths and legends- that are passed down within communities and cultures. As folklore is deeply rooted in collective experiences, we can learn about the wisdom, values and cultural practices around the world. In this class, we will look at:

• What Trickster figures do we meet in the stories around us?
• What can we learn from folklore about the Trickster?
• Which characters in fiction and movies have Trickster qualities?
• What can we learn about culturally different ways of dealing with the Trickster?

Class 3: Trickster in the Individuation Process 

The Trickster archetype plays a vital role in the individuation process, Jung’s term for the process of psychological development. The Trickster, embodying unpredictability and unconventional wisdom, serves as a catalyst for change. Meeting the Trickster may make us question our beliefs and our rigid ideas about who we are. 

By engaging with the Trickster archetype we are encouraged in the direction of self-discovery, learning about new aspects of ourselves. It cultivates new ways of being in the world. Ultimately, the Trickster can be seen as a guide as it leads us to fulfill our destiny (becoming who we truly are). In this class, you will learn about:

• Triggers for Trickster 
• The Trickster in dreams and in our personal development
• Our personal relationship to the Trickster
• When do we need the Trickster? Do we allow the Trickster to be part of our daily life? How to relate to the Trickster as a shadow figure?
• What new can come into the vessel as a result of the Trickster? (like the soul’s desires, but also fears, repressed aspects, or unrealized potential)

Class 4: Trickster on a Collective level & in Current Events

The Trickster has its purpose. It can seriously disrupt the world and create chaos. On a collective level we may observe a Trickster quality in critiquing the status quo of a culture and when challenging norms and values. 

It asks us to reflect deeply and may even force us to let go of our fixed positions. In doing so it makes space for innovative ideas. It sparks creativity and new conscious awareness. The Trickster continuously brings us to a point of appreciation for human complexity.

In this class, we will delve into: 

• Current day events and the Trickster
• The role of the Trickster in these current day events/ global themes 
• How to be guided by the Trickster and re-imagine/re-vision our way forward

Class 5: Sharing Trickster Encounters (interactive)

This final class leaves space for Q&A and the sharing of Trickster encounters. The purpose of this sharing is that we collectively learn how to deal with the Trickster as a shadow character. This final class gives insight into the ways in which we transition from chaos and confusion to humor and deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

By the end of this course you will

• Discuss the role of the Trickster archetype in shaping individual and collective experiences.
• Examine key mythological and cultural representations of the Trickster.
• Explore the psychological significance of the Trickster archetype.
• Reflect on personal experiences and identify elements of the Trickster archetype in our individual lives.
• Consider the potential impact of engaging with the Trickster archetype on individuals and communities.