What is an Archetype? Definition and Examples.

An archetype is a typical example of something, such as a character, theme, or setting, recurring in various works of literature, myths, or folklore. Consider it a universal prototype, like the Hero, the Mentor, or the Trickster, recognizable through various cultures and periods.

The core idea is that archetypes are innate, universal "prototypes" for ideas, and they can manifest in varied forms, influencing human behavior and personality.

The Introduction of Archetypes in Culture and Psychology

According to Carl Jung, an archetype is a universally understood symbol or pattern of behavior, often derived from humankind’s collective unconscious. Archetypes manifest in dreams, literature, art, and mythology, reflecting common recurring themes across cultures and periods.

Jung identified four primary archetypes: the Self, the Shadow, the Anima and Animus, and the Persona, which you can read more about in What are the Jungian Archetypes? Meaning and Examples from Film.

In addition to the four Jungian archetypes, other archetypes, such as the Hero, the Maiden, the Wise Old Man, and the Trickster, frequently appear in myths and stories across different cultures. The exact number of archetypes is not fixed, as they can vary and overlap depending on personal and cultural contexts.

Archetypes in the Broader Culture

The concept of archetypes has found utility in various fields, particularly literature and media studies, where scholars use it to analyze and interpret creative works’ symbolic and thematic elements.

While character archetypes are common in film, archetypes, as a broader concept, are also related to symbols, themes, settings, and plots:

Archetypes in Marketing and Branding

In marketing and branding, archetypes humanize brands and create deeper connections with target audiences.

Marketers might use the archetype of the ‘Outlaw’ (think Harley-Davidson) or the ‘Jester’ (like Old Spice) to define a brand’s character, making it more relatable and distinct in a crowded marketplace.

Archetypes in Psychology

Moreover, in psychology, understanding archetypes allows therapists to explore the underlying themes and patterns in their patients’ lives and personal stories, aiding treatment by tapping into universal feelings and experiences.

Summing Up

Archetypes are universal symbols that emerge from the collective unconscious, a concept introduced by psychologist Carl Jung. They play a significant role in shaping human behavior and cultural narratives, providing a framework for understanding shared human experiences.

Their function in storytelling and psychology helps us connect with movies or literature we enjoy and each other on a deep, instinctive level as we share this knowledge.

In a broader sense, archetypes can be viewed not just as human traits but also as ways to create and interpret stories, and they can be interpreted, for example, as themes and settings in film.

Up Next: What is subtext in film?

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