The Mentor

The one who taught the Hero much of what they know. They're usually much older than their pupil. They also teach the Audience about the background of the world, such as critical historic events, how the world works, and why certain things are what the are. The Mentor is often an old man with much knowledge he passes down to his student in hopes that they can become as wise or powerful as he is.

For some odd reason, the Mentor has a thing for dying. They're rarely ever around to see the Hero win the Big Fight against the Villain, but they might die once the time for final conflict is near. In certain cases, the Mentor will help out in the Big Fight, but might also die in the process. If the Mentor dies, the Big Fight is either in progress and hasn't been started yet, and the Villain or someone close to them is responsible for the death, the Hero will have the urge to avenge their teacher.

Examples of The Mentor

 * Naruto - Kakashi Hatake and Jiraya. Both serve as Naruto's mentor. Kakashi came first and taught him most of the basics of the ninja world, then Jiraya taught Naruto how to use one of his most important techniques: Rasengan. Unfortunately, later in Shippuden, Jiraya is killed by Pain. Well, to be fair, that's what he gets for being a Mentor.