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The Mother -

First on the list is the Mother archetype. The Mother is best described as caring, compassionate, and driven by the heart rather than the head.

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Examples -

In Greek mythology, this archetype is represented by Demeter, Goddess of Harvest. Examples in popular culture include Iyanla Vanzant and Princess Diana.

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Light side -

The light side of the Mother is that she loves unconditionally, just as moms do their children (although the Mother archetype need not actually have any children).

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Shadow side -

The shadow side of this archetype is that she tends to put the needs of others above her own, which can mean she tends to neglect herself.

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The Maiden -

Next up is the Maiden archetype. The main character traits here are innocence, intuition, and a tendency to be more than a little idealistic.

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Examples -

The mythological representation of the Maiden is Persephone, Goddess of Spring. Real-world examples include the likes of Shirley Temple and Josephine Baker.

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Light side -

The light side of the Maiden is that she has a very playful attitude to life. She is always ready to adapt and is great at learning new things.

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Shadow side -

The darker side of the Maiden is that she is sometimes a little too innocent for her own good. Some might accuse her of refusing to grow up.

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The Lover -

After the Maiden comes the Lover. This archetype is known for being very attractive and sensual, as well as quite emotional.

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Examples -

Unsurprisingly, this archetype is represented by Aphrodite, Goddess of Beauty. In the real world, think Marilyn Monroe or Rihanna

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Light side -

The light side of the Lover is that she knows how to attract others, and that gives her an air of confidence enviable to almost any other archetype.

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Shadow side -

On the flip side, the Lover is constantly seeking external validation. She can find it difficult to commit, and sometimes she is far too emotional.

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The Mystic -

The Mystic archetype is introverted and calm, and she tends to spend most of her time focused inward. This archetype is most comfortable in solitude and quiet.

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Examples -

In Greek mythology, the Mystic woman is Hestia, Goddess of Hearth. In pop culture she is embodied by such people as Sade and Angelina Jolie.

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Light side -

On her light side, the Mystic has an aura of peace that radiates and is perceptible to others. She makes all those around her feel tranquil and is highly self-aware.

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Shadow side -

On her shadow side, this archetype’s tendency to withdraw from others and inhabit her own peaceful world can make it difficult for her to form proper relationships.

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The Huntress -

Next up is the Huntress. This archetype is self-reliant, free-spirited, and extremely independent. She has the spirit of a warrior and endless strength to overcome obstacles.

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Examples -

The mythical representation of the Huntress is (unsurprisingly) Artemis, Goddess of the Hunt. In pop culture, our Huntresses include Wonder Woman and Serena Williams.

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Light side -

The light side of the Huntress is that she is fearless and brave. She is more than ready to take on whatever challenges life throws her way.

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Shadow side -

The downside to that is that the Huntress can struggle when it comes to accessing her emotions and being vulnerable. This can make it difficult for her to get close to others.

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The Queen -

The Queen archetype is best described as outgoing, ambitious, and oozing confidence. She understands the importance of long-lasting relationships and is fiercely loyal.

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Examples -

The Queen’s mythical representation is Hera, Goddess of Marriage. For real-life Queen role models, look to the likes of Beyoncé, Elizabeth Taylor, and Kim Kardashian.

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Light side - The best thing about the Queen is that she is very confident and therefore always ready to take charge. She is a natural born leader.

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Shadow side -

The least good thing about the Queen is that she tends to become jealous and/or petty when she feels insecure.

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The Sage -

Finally, we have the Sage archetype. This woman’s top three adjectives are truthful, insightful, and logical.

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Examples -

In Greek mythology, this woman is embodied by Athena, Goddess of Wisdom. Our pop culture Sages include Oprah Winfrey, Martha Stewart, and Michelle Obama.

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Light side -

The light side of the Sage is that she always speaks her truth and is aware of her own power. She is more than ready to focus on personal growth.

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Shadow side -

The shadow side of the Sage is that she can struggle sometimes both to live in the moment and to show real empathy towards others.

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In reality -

So there you have it, the seven feminine archetypes. Of course, we’re all unique and the archetypes manifest themselves slightly differently from person to person. That said, most people reading this will identify most strongly with one of the archetypes listed. Which of the archetypes is most you?

Sources: (YourTango)

See also: Find out more about yourself with the Enneagram personality test

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