I recently went to a literature class and found out more on some of the characteristics of an epic hero, at least an epic hero from our country (Philippines) and the hero archetype. I just want to share this with everyone who may be interested in creating a story, may it be related to the site's content (flash, video, etc.) as I believe this could be an effective way of creating characters. I, being an aspiring writer, wish to give everyone this knowledge.

The ff is the Epic Hero Archetype in Philippine Literature (The order of the events are not restricted to their numbering and may be organized in a different manner) :

1) The Hero/Heroine leaves their hometown/birthplace in search for answers to their questions, mostly questions about their identity as a hero/heroine or what their future holds. Normally, the hero is of "The Right Age" or the age where they are competent enough to make their own decisions and changes in life.

2) The hero comes across a magical item or accessory that holds power capable of answering their questions or overcome their soon-to-be adversaries. Usually these items are either mentioned to be in the possession of the hero/heroine right at the beginning or somewhere near the middle of the story.

3) The hero/heroine realizes his/her mission. This realization is crucial as this is where the action truly begins.

4) The hero/heroine comes across his/her enemy/enemies whom they will have a decisive battle with. Normally this is when their first battle begins.

5) The fight ensues and if there are multiple enemies, the one true enemy is found here. Heroes/Heroine normally lose in this battle or their battle will end in a draw in which both parties will someday fight once more in the near future.

6) A diwata (fairy or any mythical being, probably even a Deus Ex Machina) will appear and aid the hero/heroine in his/her journey. Also the diwata holds something important to the hero.

7) This item is the secret information the hero/heroine need to know immediately. The information ranges from the secret in defeating the foe, to the fact that the enemy is somehow related to the hero (lover, family, friend etc.)

8) This is where it gets a bit weird. The hero/heroine DIES in this part. Sometimes the death of the hero triggers more events that would eventually lead to the downfall of the enemy.

9) After dying the hero is somehow resurrected by any powerful being or ritual in which the hero/heroine undergoes a transformation. Either they become more heroic or they become an anti-hero.

10) This is the final battle in which the hero finally defeats the enemy. Almost always this part is the best fight the audience should see as this is where all the questions are answered.

11) Lastly, after the battle and after fulfilling the duties and accomplishing his/her mission, the hero will now return from where he came from and celebrates his victory.

Basically that's it. This is one of the common hero archetypes we Filipinos have for our heroes.