"Character types that can be universally recognised are better (for example, mothers, teachers, rulers, outlaws)."

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Initially introduced in the literature review of the associated research, in the context of Jung (1991), character archetypes have been recognised as universally recognisable.

 

Once again considering the ideology referenced in the part one of the guidelines (story & plot), comedy elements often hinge on the familiarity and ability to understand or recognise how things are supposed to be. In terms of character, archetypes provide clear understanding in character goals and motive regardless of the greater context of the plot.

 

This universal knowledge and understanding allows the screenwriter to create comedy elements in a variety of ways, for example, if an archetypal characters goals, wants and general characteristics are understood, Incongruity Theory can be utilised to subvert expectation in a comedic way.

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"Comedy tropes can be utilised if applied to archetypal characters, routed in universally understood situations."

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Building on from the previous guideline point, this suggestion expresses that while utilising universally understood characters proves beneficial, one should not be deterred from incorporating comedic tropes in their character creation.

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However, as stated in the previous point, one should avoid the use of niche or culturally specific character types, tropes, or stereotypes (see the next point). 

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"Avoid the use of stereotypes as comedy pertaining to them often requires culturally specific knowledge."

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Further building on the guidelines prior, this guideline emphasises the fact that while archetypes are universally known and therefore should be considered when creating characters for universal audiences, the use of stereotypes specifically should be avoided.

 

As explored in detail within the literature review of the associated research, stereotypes are culturally focused and require a certain level of cultural knowledge or understanding to draw humour elements from.

 

Therefore, it can be surmised that the use of a stereotype from one culture may differ drastically to that of another, and the usage of such stereotypes should be avoided if crucial in the understanding of a comedy moment. 

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