Temperament in pop culture: Stranger Things

The four boys in the Netflix series Stranger Things - Mike, Lucas, Dustin and Will - each have a different temperament. Writers in media and literature often use these deeply resonant archetypes to solidify the coherence of friend groups as a complete unit.

Mike - choleric

Although all the boys exhibit tremendous courage and loyalty, Mike is the one that seems to show the most of these two characteristics typical of the choleric. He is the leader of the group, which is typical for cholerics.

Lucas - melancholic

Thoughtful and skeptical Lucas is the melancholic of the group. He is mistrustful of Eleven when the first meet her, preferring to get more information before letting her in. He is socially ambitious and understands the realities of the social dynamics at school. Melancholics can be great athletes, and Lucas is the only athlete of the group.

Dustin - sanguine

Quick-witted Dustin is the group’s sanguine character. He often brings humor and technological know how to the problems the group faces. He is always bringing the group back together and trying to communicate via the walkie talkies and the radio (with Suzy).

Will - phlegmatic

The phlegmatic of the group is tender-hearted Will. He is kind, sensitive, considerate and loving. He cherishes his alone time in Fort Byers, but also loves to be among his dear friends.

So there they are: the four temperaments characterized in Stranger Things. And what about Eleven? I think she is the 5th element, spirit, and transcends the limitations of physical matter.