Lancer

Background

The Lancer is a main archetype that serves as the second-in-command, foil, or contrasting counterpart to the primary leader or protagonist. This archetype is defined by being the balance, rival, or complement to the main hero, often embodying traits the leader lacks. The dynamic between the Lancer and the Leader is one of the oldest archetypal pairings, creating a natural tension or synergy that drives the narrative.

Origins

The Lancer archetype originates from the "Five-Man Band" trope, where the second role after the Leader was traditionally portrayed as a spear-wielder or rival warrior. The Lancer’s role is to provide contrast, challenge, or balance to the Leader, often representing an opposing worldview, temperament, or style of combat.

Also Called

• The Foil
• The Second-in-Command
• The Counterbalance
• The Rival

Possible Applications

• Acting as a foil to highlight the Leader’s strengths or flaws.
• Balancing the team dynamic with complementary abilities or traits.
• Serving as the rival who pushes the hero to grow stronger.
• Offering alternative solutions or perspectives the Leader cannot see.
• In villainous cases, functioning as the schemer or dangerous right-hand man.

Practical Uses

• Useful in crossovers to pair against the rival or foil of another series.
• Provides natural conflict and banter to keep stories dynamic.
• Can carry a subplot of eventual betrayal, redemption, or reconciliation.
• Often serves as the most popular character archetype due to relatability and edge.

Example Types

• The Rival Lancer: Defined by competitiveness and tension with the Leader. (Example: Vegeta to Goku)
• The Loyal Lancer: Faithfully follows the Leader while offering a different personality or style. (Example: Zoro to Luffy)
• The Cynical Lancer: Provides pragmatism or sarcasm to balance an idealistic leader. (Example: Raphael to Leonardo, Han Solo to Luke Skywalker)
• The Villainous Lancer: Second-in-command to a dark leader, serving as a schemer, brute force, or right-hand enforcer. (Example: Darth Vader to Palpatine, Azula to Ozai)

Possible Limitations

• Can be overshadowed by the Leader or protagonist.
• Risk of being reduced to a one-dimensional rival.
• May become redundant in smaller casts where dynamics are simplified.
• In villainous forms, may not survive long due to their role as the "number two."

Examples

• Piccolo (Dragon Ball)