Archetypes: An archetype is something that serves as a model or a basis for something. This is because it is believed to have all the essential characteristics of becoming something or someone. For instance, Virat Kohli is an archetype for all aspiring cricketers. Carl Jung, the Swiss psychoanalyst gave the idea of the archetype. In writing, archetypes are seen as characters or symbols that are recognized irrespective of their place or time of origin. Archetypes play an essential role in the way how people understand each other.
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Archetypes
What is Archetype?
Archetypes are believed to have essential characteristics of becoming someone, hence they serve as a model or a basis for something. It connects the people of the world across time & culture. “Archetype” has an ancient Greek origin. The root words are “archein,” meaning original or old, and “typos,” meaning pattern, model, or type. So together, they refer to “an original pattern.” Apart from being characters, archetypes can also be symbols or situations. For example, Steven Spielberg’s movies serve as an archetype for all filmmakers.
Example of Archetypes
While telling stories, archetypal characters help to bridge the cultural gaps. Example- The idea of having a hero is omnipresent, its something that has always been there & continues to exist. India, being such a rich & diverse country in terms of its culture & traditions, has so many epic tales where the central character essays a pivotal role and comes with a message.
- Ramayana, an evergreen epic story with Ram as the hero continues to serve as an archetype for honesty, truth, wisdom & kindness. His role is a source of inspiration for generations old & new.
- Similarly, another archetypal character from Ramayana is Sita who is seen as a source of courage, devotion & fearlessness for many women out there who see her as someone who fought against all odds.
Purpose of Archetypes
Archetypal patterns are universal & repeated ideas/symbols that unite people globally across time & space. These patterns remind us that there’s an innateness of the human condition that makes us all same.
For instance, sports like cricket & football serve as an archetype that gives the message of unity & brotherhood across all borders.
Types of Archetypes
By identifying & incorporating the strengths & weaknesses of each archetype, readers can learn the moral of the story. Archetypes focus on common threads of human existence.
a) CHARACTER ARCHETYPES – Carl Jung came up with the common character archetypes, each with its own motto, core designer, goal, biggest fear, strategy, weakness, & talent.
- The Ego Types: the innocent, the orphan or the “regular guy or gal,” the hero, & the caregiver (motherly figure)
- The Soul Types: the explorer, the rebel, the lover, & the creator (inventor or divine creator)
- The Self Types: the jester (humorous & daredevil), the sage (mentor), the magician (making things happen), & the emperor (power-oriented)
b) SITUATIONAL ARCHETYPES – are circumstances commonly used in many genres & stories.
For example: Reuniting with a lost love is a classic example of a situational archetype we find in a romance novel.
c) SYMBOLIC ARCHETYPES – objects or locations in a story that symbolize something deeper.
For example, Light & dark themes are often used to show the arrival of the good & bad characters in a story. Such light & dark themes are a representation of a character’s nature & personality.
Archetypes vs Stereotypes
| ARCHETYPES | STEREOTYPES |
| Archetype is seen as an ideal pattern—a character trait or emotion that has a universal quality. |
Stereotypes are overly simplified, general, & usually negative traits applied to a set of people.
|
| Eg:- Archetype of a hero being the messiah. | Eg:- Girls should be docile & submissive. |
Importance of Archetypes
- Becoming aware of our personal set of archetypes, & their influence on our behavior will give us useful insights into our biological & emotional urges.
- An archetype isn’t personal. It belongs to the collective, & is played out by the individuals. By understanding this, & separating oneself from it, one allows the freedom & space to witness its behaviors, thus providing us with time & wisdom to choose the right course of action in alignment with one’s values & intentions.
Archetypal Characters Used In Writing
Character archetypes represent aspects of human nature that transcend time, location & circumstance. They reflect universal human motifs & experiences.
When these archetypes are used well, they result in characters that are familiar & fresh.
Examples of Archetypes in Literature
Below are 12 common character archetypes, which are examples of archetypes seen in famous works of film & literature.
| The Lover | The Outlaw | The Everyman |
| The Hero | The Caregiver | The Creator |
| The Magician | The Innocent | The Ruler |
| The Explorer | The Sage | The Jester |
Conclusion
Archetypes essay a pivotal role in how people understand each other. They are believed to have essential characteristics for becoming someone, hence they serve as a model or a basis for something. Archetypes connect the people of the world across time & culture.
Frequently Asked Questions on Archetype
What is Archetype?
Archetype is seen as an ideal pattern—a character trait or emotion that has a universal quality.
What are the uses of Archetypes?
Archetypes allows readers or audience to link certain parts of themselves with the characters, which can help them to become more incorporated in the story. This experience lets readers see parts of themselves that maybe they hadn’t considered before.
What is an example of Archetype?
The archetype of a Hero is a common theme across the globe,
What is the purpose of Archetypes?
Archetypal patterns are universal & repeated ideas/symbols that unite people globally across time & space. These patterns remind us that there’s an innateness of the human condition that makes us all same.