archetypes Definition
- 1a very typical example of a certain person or thing
- 2a recurrent symbol or motif in literature, art, or mythology
Using archetypes: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "archetypes" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The hero is a common archetype in literature.
Example
The mother figure is an archetype that appears in many cultures.
Example
The wise old man is another archetype that appears in myths and stories around the world.
archetypes Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with archetypes
Example
The villain in the story represents the shadow archetype.
anima/animus archetype
the feminine/masculine aspect of the psyche in the unconscious mind of a person
Example
The anima archetype is often represented by female characters in literature.
a mischievous character who breaks rules and conventions, often to help others see the truth
Example
The trickster archetype appears in many Native American myths.
Origins of archetypes
from Greek 'arkhetupos', meaning 'original pattern'
Summary: archetypes in Brief
'Archetypes' [ˈɑːrkɪtaɪps] are very typical examples of certain people or things, or recurrent symbols or motifs in literature, art, or mythology. Examples include the hero, mother figure, and wise old man. 'Archetypes' extend into phrases like 'shadow archetype,' which represents the darker side of human nature, and 'trickster archetype,' which breaks rules and conventions to help others see the truth.
