Once Upon a Time Myers-Briggs (MBTI) Personality Types (Just for Fun!)

So, while waiting for the next half of season 3 to arrive, I've decided to use the Myers-Briggs personality system to type the characters of ABC's Once Upon a Time. Please note that these typings are only based on my observations of the characters. Feel free to disagree. (Note: For more information on the system itself, see this site: Myers Briggs.)

So let's get started!

;">Snow White/ Mary Margaret: INFP - The Healer (or The Idealist)

I owe this typing to MBTI in Fiction. The author of this tumbler does an excellent job showing why Snow White fits this type and how her "cursed" self, Mary Margaret, also exhibits the type (and some of its negative traits), so I can't add much to this. Here is a brief description of the type:

"INFPs are imaginative idealists, guided by their own core values and beliefs. To a Healer, possibilities are paramount; the realism of the moment is only of passing concern. They see potential for a better future, and pursue truth and meaning with their own individual flair.

INFPs are sensitive, caring, and compassionate, and and are deeply concerned with the personal growth of themselves and others. Individualistic and nonjudgmental, INFPs believe that each person must find their own path. They enjoy spending time exploring their own ideas and values, and are gently encouraging to others to do the same. INFPs are creative and often artistic; they enjoy finding new outlets for self-expression." Read more: http://typefinder.com/infp#ixzz2p4ZhdZrQ

More on Snow in the next section.

Prince Charming/ David Nolan: ISFJ - The Protector (or The Nurturer)

"ISFJs are industrious caretakers, loyal to traditions and organizations. They are practical, compassionate, and caring, and are motivated to provide for others and protect them from the perils of life.

ISFJs are conventional and grounded, and enjoy contributing to established structures of society. They are steady and committed workers with a deep sense of responsibility to others. They focus on fulfilling their duties, particularly when they are taking care of the needs of other people. They want others to know that they are reliable and can be trusted to do what is expected of them. They are conscientious and methodical, and persist until the job is done." -http://typefinder.com/isfj#ixzz2p4aqb0uH

I think Charming/David fits this type very well. His great people skills may not scream "introvert" at first, but if you notice he generally does not go out of his way to draw attention to himself or promote himself. He is committed to the proper way of doing things, but he isn't a complete stick-in-the-mud, and persistence is his middle name. As David Nolan, his belief in right and wrong and his commitment to that is overwhelmed by his need to maintain a close relationship with Mary Margaret, and his inability to make a decision regarding Katherine and MM likely stems from his mistaken desire to maintain harmony, at the cost of honesty. Both of these traits - commitment to relationships and maintaining harmony - are hallmarks of the ISFJ. They can be strengths (as seen in Prince Charming) or weaknesses. 

Their shared sense of responsibility and deeply held values, as well as their commitment to others, serve as core values and traits that Snow and Charming share, which probably contributes, in some ways, to the intensity and consistency of their relationship. Charming's commitment to the here-and-now, to duty, helps him to be optimistic and grounded in reality, which helps balance Snow's tendency to worry about what might happen in the future. On the other hand, Snow's commitment to developing relationships helps her to be more compassionate toward Regina than Charming sometimes is. She's also good at bringing out Emma's feelings, especially the ones Emma would rather not deal with, persistently nurturing their relationship despite Emma's reserve.

Emma Swan: ISTJ - The Inspector (or The Duty Fulfiller)

"ISTJs like to know what the rules of the game are, valuing predictability more than imagination. They rely on their past experience to guide them, and are most comfortable in familiar surroundings. ISTJs trust the proven method, and appreciate the value of dedicated practice to build confidence in their skills.

ISTJs are hardworking and will persist until a task is done. They are logical and methodical, and often enjoy tasks that require them to use step-by-step reasoning to solve a problem. They are meticulous in their attention to details, and examine things closely to be sure they are correct. With their straightforward logic and orientation to detail, ISTJs work systematically to bring order to their own small parts of the world." Read more: http://typefinder.com/istj#ixzz2p4fSkjtD

Though Emma may not at first seem to fit this personality type, especially the emphasis on order, conservatism, and duty, all of these are definite parts of Emma's personality. Her early life experiences have exacerbated the ISTJ's natural reservation (many people put Katniss Everdeen in this type too). Her personality, with its emphasis on practical experience, makes it difficult for her to believe in the curse until it's almost too late. She could use a bit of Snow's INFP open-mindedness, relationship development, and imagination, but it's clear that Emma's personality shares a great deal of positive traits with David's. ("You have your mother's chin... and your father's tact.") Though she doesn't seem like a stick-in-the-mud, Emma's practicality limits her imagination. This can lead to interesting situations with Henry, who, as an ENTP, demonstrates almost unbounded imagination. Emma's complex ISTJ type also explains, to a certain extent, the contradiction between her seeming dismissal of the opinions of others and her fixation on following procedure, even when that means she has to submit to Regina's authority or expertise.

Regina Mills/Evil Queen/Regina: ESTJ - The Supervisor (or The Guardian)

"ESTJs are conventional, factual, and grounded in reality. For the ESTJ, the proof is in the past: what has worked and what has been done before. They value evidence over conjecture, and trust their personal experience. ESTJs look for rules to follow and standards to meet, and often take a leadership role in helping other people meet expectations as well. They concern themselves with maintaining the social order and keeping others in line.

ESTJs often take on a project manager role at home as well as at work, and excel at setting goals, making decisions, and organizing resources to accomplish a task. The ESTJ wants to achieve efficient productivity and typically believes this is best accomplished when people and systems are well organized." - Read more: http://typefinder.com/estj#ixzz2p4j0FIlS

Regina fits this type to a T as mayor of Storybrooke and as the Evil Queen in the Enchanted Forest, but some of the less obvious facets of her personality include her introverted feeling function, which often means that, though she has strong emotions, she rarely lets others get close enough to know about them. This may be part of the reason that Henry isn't sure she really loves him. Her need for evidence and rules also inhibits her ability to imagine different scenarios at times, which makes it easier for Gold/Rumpelstiltskin and Cora to manipulate her. Regina's strengths lie in her ability to make decisions and carry through with them, her unswerving commitment to those she loves, and her courage. Her weaknesses are her inability to think outside-the-box (sleeping curse, anyone?), her prejudice, and being out of sync with her own emotions at times. Her need to be a part of larger groups (as an extrovert, she feeds off of being around others - she wants everyone to love her) makes it doubly painful for her to be an outcast.

 

Rumpelstiltskin/Mr. Gold: INFJ - The Counselor (or The Protector)

 

"INFJs are guided by a deeply considered set of personal values. They are intensely idealistic, and can clearly imagine a happier and more perfect future. They can become discouraged by the harsh realities of the present, but they are typically motivated and persistent in taking positive action nonetheless. The INFJ feels an intrinsic drive to do what they can to make the world a better place.

INFJs want a meaningful life and deep connections with other people. They do not tend to share themselves freely but appreciate emotional intimacy with a select, committed few. Although their rich inner life can sometimes make them seem mysterious or private to others, they profoundly value authentic connections with people they trust." Read more: http://typefinder.com/infj#ixzz2p4s0jZ89

This probably isn't what you were expecting. I think many people might assume that Rumpelstiltskin would be a rational type, like INTP or INTJ (the most common "villain" types, such as Voldemort, House, Moriarty, etc.). However, the fact that most of the motivation for his worst or most nefarious plots has been the strength of his feelings for another character (his son), made me decide on INFJ. As the character himself put it, "I'm full of love." Surprisingly, though he definitely develops his introverted thinking function and his dramatic flair as the Dark One, Rumpelstiltskin is probably more of a Feeler than a Thinker. This doesn't mean he isn't intelligent. Even before he gained the ability to see the future, Rumpelstiltskin displays a very sharp mind able to visualize and evaluate possibilities quickly, and very socially conscious. Rumpelstiltskin cares a lot about what others think of him, especially the people he loves most. Experience has, unfortunately, caused him to see only the dark side of human nature, to use his knowledge of others' desires and weaknesses to manipulate them.

INFJs tend to be one of the best types at understanding the emotions of others, sometimes making incredible intuitive connections. Rumpelstiltskin has thus far proven himself on par with Dr. Hopper in this respect. When ESTJ Regina steamrolls into his shop, Gold almost always assesses her emotions for her, diagnosing her feelings better than she can. He uses his knowledge of others for his own means, but before he became the Dark One, we can see his sensitivity to the feelings of others such as Milah and Bae when he tries to give them what they want. When his vision of a perfect family is destroyed (to a large extent by his actions), his turn to the dark side isn't surprising.

Finally, INFJs also tend to be religious and sometimes idealistic or single-minded in their world view. This can be understood in a variety of ways, but in Rumpelstiltskin this manifests as the character's fatalistic streak. Especially after he gains the ability to see the future, Rumpelstiltskin's fatalism develops rapidly, ultimately culminating in his self-sacrifice at the midway point of season 3. In his words, "Villains don't get happy endings," and he has evidently held this belief about himself for a very long time. He believes that things will never work out well for him, partly because he doesn't deserve happiness.

Henry: ENTP - The Visionary

"ENTPs are energized by challenge and are often inspired by a problem that others perceive as impossible to solve. They are confident in their ability to think creatively, and may assume that others are too tied to tradition to see a new way. The Visionary relies on their ingenuity to deal with the world around them, and rarely finds preparation necessary. They will often jump into a new situation and trust themselves to adapt as they go.

ENTPs are masters of re-inventing the wheel and often refuse to do a task the same way twice. They question norms and often ignore them altogether. Established procedures are uninspiring to the Visionary, who would much rather try a new method (or two) than go along with the standard." - Read more: http://typefinder.com/entp#ixzz2p59wrpXi

Though he's young, Henry's definite belief and ability to imagine countless possibilities help him to grasp the curse long before any other person in the show does. Trusting his intuitive logic, Henry sets off to break the curse by bringing his mother (Emma) to Storybrooke and spends most of the first season convincing her. Explaining the rationale behind one's choices is difficult for an ENTP, but Henry definitely tries. Like most ENTPs, Henry is also unafraid of challenges or jumping headlong into a situation, something that often gets him in trouble. ENTPs are also sometimes called "lawyers," able to argue their positions, regardless of the ethical implications at times. In other words, they don't mind bending the rules it the end justifies the means. Though Henry certainly is moral, he usually doesn't mind being unconventional or breaking rules to achieve the goal he believes in and he has almost no regard for traditional authority, such as his adopted mother, Regina, or even his biological parents at times. For an ESTJ like Regina, this refusal to accept her authority is very trying.

Belle: ENFJ - The Teacher (or The Giver)

"ENFJs are driven by a deep sense of altruism and empathy for other people. They have an intuitive sense of the emotions of others, and often act as an emotional barometer for the people around them. However, their compassion not reserved for the people close to them: they are often humanitarian in nature, and may feel genuine concern for the ills of the entire human race. They tend to personally experience the feelings of others, and feel compelled to act when they see people suffering. 

ENFJs want close, supportive connections with others, and believe that cooperation is the best way to get things done. They like to be liked and are very sensitive to feedback, both positive and negative. They expect the best not just from themselves, but from others as well, and may find themselves disappointed when others are not as genuine in their intentions as the ENFJ. ENFJs work hard to maintain strong relationships, and strive to be valuable members of their families, groups, and communities." - Read more: http://typefinder.com/enfj#ixzz2p52vtjo1

ENFJs love the underdog and they will never give up trying to help those they feel need them. But though emotions tend to drive ENFJs, they are also intelligent, using their intuition to help them understand complex systems and situations in unique ways. They also tend to be incurably optimistic. This describes OUAT's Belle perfectly. As an ENFJ, she not only has excellent people skills, but she is also able to get just about anyone to do what she wants, including Wendy's brothers. Unlike Rumpelstiltskin, who often uses his understanding of other people's emotions in order to manipulate them, Belle uses the same ability to persuade others to agree with her, or to live up to the potential she sees in them. Her extroverted function means that she is focused on the outside world, on others' needs, and often places these above her own. This also means that, though she is extroverted, she can also be highly reserved about her own emotions, not giving away too much, and sometimes being hard on herself. Unlike some ENFJs, Belle has developed a strong sense of personal values that she will commit to, even if it means that the needs of others sometimes conflict. Fortunately, her strength of character and independence keep her from falling into the main ENFJ trap: pleasing others instead of staying true to oneself.

Leroy: ISTP - The Craftsman (or The Mechanic)

 "ISTPs are curious about the mechanics of the world around them and typically have a unique ability to manipulate the tools in their environments. They tend to study how things work and often achieve mastery in the use and operation of machines, instruments, and equipment. They seek understanding, but in a practical sense: they like to be able to put their technical knowledge to immediate use and are quickly bored by theory.

ISTPs tend to be detached and prefer the logic of mechanical things to the complexity of human emotions. Independent and reserved, ISTPs treasure their personal space, and want to be free to be spontaneous and follow their own lead. ISTPs are selective about their relationships, and appreciate others who allow them plenty of freedom to do their own thing."- Read more: http://typefinder.com/istp#ixzz2p5MJTtaS

I didn't pick this because Leroy is a miner, though the mechanic is a title that fits him well. ISTPs are not the best with emotions, especially those of others, but they do care about the relationships they do have. Leroy demonstrates this in his devotion to Snow White and in his fierce independence and willingness to stand out. He is often the voice of reason and demonstrates the ISTP's intuitive ability to know when things are about to get bad.

Neal/Baelfire: ISFP - The Composer (or The Artist) 

"ISFPs tend to be tolerant and nonjudgmental, but are deeply loyal to the people and causes that matter to them. They endeavor to accept and support other people, but are ultimately guided by their own core values. They will typically look for ways to be accommodating and may have difficulty dealing with others who are not willing to do the same.

ISFPs are typically modest and may underestimate themselves. They usually do not like to be in the spotlight, preferring instead to take a supporting role, and will avoid planning and organizing whenever possible. Sensitive and responsive, they step in to do what needs to be done and are satisfied by their personal sense of being helpful to others." - Read more: http://typefinder.com/isfp#ixzz2p5N2TnCw

ISFPs are "doers" who will rebel if they are not allowed to live within their ideals.  To me, this describes what we've seen of Bae/Neal up to this point. When he was young, his father didn't allow him to live up to what he believed was right (courage, family, etc.). In reaction to this, Baelfire first takes matters into his own hands, and then eventually runs away. As an adult, Neal demonstrates the ISFP's emotional reservation, generally not wearing his heart on his sleeve, even when it comes to the death of his father. And though ISFPs have strong values, these values are highly personal and don't necessarily include objective rules and laws, which means that Neal's penchant for breaking the law works very well as long as its falls within what he thinks is morally important (like providing for Emma). Though he can be incredibly committed to certain relationships (his sacrifice for the Darlings, for example), Neal rarely likes to get involved with people if he can help it. This doesn't mean that he is cold, however; most of the time he is very sensitive in dealing with other people. Neal also demonstrates the ISFPs ability to live and let live, for the most part: he does not try to control anyone, and he has a distinct dislike of being controlled by others...understandably, in his case.

 

Hook: ESTP - The Dynamo (or The Doer)

"ESTPs are energetic thrill-seekers who are at their best when putting out fires, whether literal or metaphorical. They bring a sense of dynamic energy to their interactions with others and the world around them. They assess situations quickly and move adeptly to respond to immediate problems with practical solutions.

Active and playful, ESTPs are often the life of the party and have a good sense of humor. 

They use their keen powers of observation to assess their audience and adapt quickly to keep interactions exciting. Although they typically appear very social, they are rarely sensitive; the ESTP prefers to keep things fast-paced and silly rather than emotional or serious." - Read more: http://typefinder.com/estp#ixzz2p5QifGHU

ESTPs may not be the best at planning, but they tend to be excellent at carrying out the plans of others. In this capacity, Hook seems to shine. He's carried out Cora, Greg and Tamara, and Regina's plans with varying degrees of success, but most of the time any failure can't really be chalked up to him. He may not always be successful, but he knows how to get the job done. Hook lives in the here-and-now, like most ESTPs, and he has no qualms about acting on split-second evaluations. These evaluations, though they are not calculated, are generally impressively accurate. Like many ESTPs, Hook has an uncanny instinct for understanding the emotions and motivations of others, even when they are lying to him: a trait he shares with Emma and Belle. Though he can be a thrill-seeker and a law-breaker, Hook also demonstrates the ESTPs dogged loyalty to the principals he thinks are important. Like Neal (ISTP), these principals are often not the established rules, but if they are important to him, Hook won't budge: he calls it "good form." Though it's difficult to trust him at times, Hook has proven himself capable in dangerous situations; his ability to act quickly often ends up being a life-saver. And despite his lacking a hand, he is also, like many ESTPs, very athletic.

Cora: ENTJ - The Executive (or Field-marshal)

 "ENTJs have a natural tendency to marshall and direct. This may be expressed with the charm and finesse of a world leader or with the insensitivity of a cult leader. The ENTJ requires little encouragement to make a plan. One ENTJ put it this way... "I make these little plans that really don't have any importance to anyone else, and then feel compelled to carry them out." While "compelled" may not describe ENTJs as a group, nevertheless the bent to plan creatively and to make those plans reality is a common theme for NJ types.

ENTJs are often "larger than life" in describing their projects or proposals. This ability may be expressed as salesmanship, story-telling facility or stand-up comedy. In combination with the natural propensity for filibuster, our hero can make it very difficult for the customer to decline.
ENTJs are decisive. They see what needs to be done, and frequently assign roles to their fellows. Few other types can equal their ability to remain resolute in conflict, sending the valiant (and often leading the charge) into the mouth of hell. When challenged, the ENTJ may by reflex become argumentative. Alternatively (s)he may unleash an icy gaze that serves notice: the ENTJ is not one to be trifled with." - description from typelogic.

I love this description as it humorously points out the terror an ENTJ is capable of inspiring. Though ENTJs don't have to be evil, Cora certainly demonstrates how successful an evil ENTJ can be. Cunning, resourceful, and determined, Cora is a born leader who rises to the top on sheer will power and a little magic. She is clearly in her element when she is in command. After making sure her daughter would be queen, Cora was banished to Wonderland. While others would probably have just tried to get out, Cora became the Queen of Hearts. Literally. She raised a zombie army and was practically within an inch of becoming the next Dark One if Regina hadn't returned her heart to her in the nick of time. Talk about potential! But then, that seems to have been the theme of Cora's life: what might have been. At any moment, had she chosen love over power, she might have ended up very differently. But you have to hand it to her: she definitely knew how to take charge. ENTJs make excellent Tiger Moms too, probably to no one's surprise. This sheds a great deal of light on where Regina gets her need to be in control.

Cinderella/Ashley and Archie Hopper: ISFJ - The Nurturer

 

 "ISFJs are characterized above all by their desire to serve others, their "need to be needed." In extreme cases, this need is so strong that standard give-and-take relationships are deeply unsatisfying to them; however, most ISFJs find more than enough with which to occupy themselves within the framework of a normal life...

ISFJs are often unappreciated, at work, home, and play. Ironically, because they prove over and over that they can be relied on for their loyalty and unstinting, high-quality work, those around them often take them for granted--even take advantage of them. Admittedly, the problem is sometimes aggravated by the ISFJs themselves; for instance, they are notoriously bad at delegating ("If you want it done right, do it yourself"). And although they're hurt by being treated like doormats, they are often unwilling to toot their own horns about their accomplishments because they feel that although they deserve more credit than they're getting, it's somehow wrong to want any sort of reward for doing work (which is supposed to be a virtue in itself). (And as low-profile Is, their actions don't call attention to themselves as with charismatic Es.)...."- typelogic

Though they share different aspects of this type, I think that Ashley and Archie both explore what it means to be an ISFJ. Archie demonstrates the type's need to be needed and investment in the lives of others, as well as loyalty. Ashley demonstrates the type's inability to delegate, to be taken advantage of, and fierce protectiveness of loved ones.

Sleeping Beauty/Aurora: ESFJ - The Caregiver

Source for image: fyaurora

"Guardians of birthdays, holidays and celebrations, ESFJs are generous entertainers. They enjoy and joyfully observe traditions and are liberal in giving, especially where custom prescribes.

All else being equal, ESFJs enjoy being in charge. They see problems clearly and delegate easily, work hard and play with zest. ESFJs, as do most SJs, bear strong allegiance to rights of seniority. They willingly provide service (which embodies life's meaning) and expect the same from others.
ESFJs are easily wounded. And when wounded, their emotions will not be contained. They by nature "wear their hearts on their sleeves," often exuding warmth and bonhomie, but not infrequently boiling over with the vexation of their souls." - Typelogic

I had to include this particular pic because it perfectly demonstrates Aurora's awesome sass. ESFJs (Miss Piggy counts as one of them) are great with people, but struggle with their inner conflict of needing to maintain harmony and wanting things their way (the best way, of course!). They feel deeply and intensely, and they aren't shy about expressing their feelings and viewpoints, but they are perversely sensitive to criticism too. They can go from being calm to exploding with anger very quickly. They believe things should be done properly, in accordance with tradition, but despite their rigidity, they can also be incredibly supportive and enthusiastic towards those they love.

Red Ridinghood/Ruby - ENFP - The Inspirer

 "ENFPs can be the warmest, kindest, and most sympathetic of mates; affectionate, demonstrative, and spontaneous. Many in relationships with an ENFP literally say, "They light up my life." But there is usually a trade-off: the partner must be willing to deal with the practical and financial aspects of the relationship, and the ENFP must be allowed the freedom to follow their latest path, whatever that entails.

For some ENFPs, relationships can be seriously tested by their short attention spans and emotional needs. They are easily intrigued and distracted by new friends and acquaintances, forgetting their older and more familiar emotional ties for long stretches at a time. And the less mature ENFP may need to feel they’re the constant center of attention, to confirm their image of themselves as a wonderful and fascinating person." - Typelogic

Ruby seems an excellent fit for an ENFP, whose natural complement is the ENFJ (Belle). ENFPs are incredibly interested in people and in ideas; they love new things and pursue many paths. Sometimes they can have short attention spans, and can even be silly or ridiculous at times. They can also need to be liked so badly that they will pretend or act just to get along with others. When we first meet Red (and Ruby to some extent) she is a bit insecure, but very much desires friendship and is open with Snow White and Emma. Ruby definitely has her silly side as well, but it seems like she matured toward the end of season 2, especially after her friendship with Belle began and we learned about her unfortunate relationship with her mother.