Think of ‚strong and independent woman‘ and you‘ve got the Wild Woman Archetype. Out of the 7 Feminine Archetypes, she is the most freedom-loving and fierce.

Also known as the The Huntress Archetype, her nature-loving soul and warrior-like spirit can be a true inspiration to others.

Common Characteristics of the Wild Woman Archetype

Before we dive into the details, let us have a look at some common traits of the Huntress Archetype – there are some typical patterns that show up.

Deepest desire: freedom on all levels

Goal: to follow her own, often unconventional path

Deepest fear: feeling vulnerable, powerless or trapped

Signature move: loves doing the opposite of everyone else

Hidden talent: makes a fantastic revolutionary

The Wild Woman Archetype does not like being placed in a box – her highest precept is freedom and she will do everything in her power to free herself from any constraints holding her back.
She does not care too much about other people’s opinions nor does she require their validation. The Wild Woman is highly independent and knows how to fend for herself, without having to or wanting to rely on others.
She is perfectly happy with doing her own thing which often makes her come across as unconvential. Secretely, she enjoys being a little rebel.
As a modern warrioress, the Wild Woman  is also known for her courage. With her strong and self-confident presence, she often inspires others and can even fall into the role of a protector for more vulnerable women. It is not uncommon for the Wild Woman to care greatly about women‘s rights or other social causes.
The Wild Woman stands up for what she believes in. When she has a goal (and she has those a lot), she has her eyes firmly set on the prize. Her character is committed, driven and competitive.
Authentic expression of her self is highly important to the Huntress Archetype. Her free-thinking mind needs to be spoken and her path to be followed.
Being also known as the Wild Woman, the Huntress tends to be deeply connected to nature. It is the place where she feels closest to herself and full of life force.

The Wild Woman Archetype‘s Shadow and Weaknesses

The strengths associated with this archetype come with a flipside – as always, light does not exist without darkness. So let us look at the shadow side of the Wild Woman Archetype.

In case the so-called “shadow” is a new term for you: It is a term coined by Carl Jung and refers to the dark side of the human psyche, including our hidden desires, weak spots and repressed areas of the self burdened with shame. Doing shadow work helps you to integrate and find peace with your shadow.

Very typical for hyper-independent people is the tendency to fear vulnerability. Some huntresses see it as a weakness (while actually, it is the basis for forming deep connections with others and holds lots of strength). When others get too close to her, she can react irritated and dismissive.
Emotional unavailability can also be an issue in relationships – while the Huntress does not fear expressing her distaste in systems and conventions, she does struggle to express her deepest fears and feelings of love.
Sometimes, the Wild Woman can be so focused on their goals that she does not notice the emotions of those around her, either, which can cause conflict. She values solitude but runs danger of isolating herself too much.
Being able to fend for yourself is a great thing but there can be a downside to it. The Huntress Archetype may rather get herself into desperate situations than ask for help, simply because her core belief is that she needs to do it all by herself.
One of the greatest growth opportunities for this archetype is to lean into her softer side. She needs to learn to ask for help, to allow feelings and to connect with others meaningfully.
In order for her to develop empathy and access her feelings, reflecting and journaling can help. Try these questions to help you step out of the Huntress archetype‘s shadow:

  • How can I be more present with the people around me?

  • What sensations do I feel in my body right now?

  • Am I alone by choice or do I tend to push people away?

  • Could vulnerability also have a positive side?

  • Which fears do I have when it comes to love?

  • How do I view people who ask for help?

  • What would happen if I let someone see all aspects of me?