A symbolic archetype is an object, location, or image in a story that contains more than one functional meaning. It has both a physical meaning in the story world and a thematic meaning for the reader to interpret. First, the object, location, or image “is what it is” in the world of the story.

What is an archetype? A term used to describe universal symbols that evoke deep and sometimes unconscious responses in a reader. Characters, images, and themes that symbolically embody universal meanings and basic human experiences, regardless of when or where they live, are considered archetypes.

Archetype—instinctive patterns in the collective unconscious of humankind. Symbol—An object that stands for something more abstract or general. The cross, for example is a symbol in Christianity representing Christ’s suffering and death.

Archetype (defined) Generally, the original model from which something is developed or made; in literary criticism, those images, figures, character types, settings, and story patterns that, according to the Swiss analytical psychologist, Carl Gustav Jung, are universally shared by people across cultures.

Here are the 12 common character archetypes, as well as examples of archetype in famous works of literature and film.

• The Lover.
• The Hero.
• The Magician.
• The Outlaw.
• The Explorer.
• The Sage.
• The Innocent.
• The Creator.

The four main archetypes described by Jung as well as a few others that are often identified include the following.

• The Persona. The persona is how we present ourselves to the world.
• The Shadow. The shadow is an archetype that consists of the sex and life instincts.
• The Anima or Animus.
• The Self.

There are twelve brand archetypes: The Innocent, Everyman, Hero, Outlaw, Explorer, Creator, Ruler, Magician, Lover, Caregiver, Jester, and Sage.

heroes

What are the archetypes in literature? There are two sets of archetypes in literature: Character and Situation. Character archetypes are precisely what the term describes. Characters in a story perform various specific functions throughout the plot, and these functions are what determines which archetype they fit into.

Even though Romeo and Juliet love each other very much, their outcome defines them as the tragic archetype.

An archetype is a universal symbolic pattern. Examples of archetypal characters are the femme fatale, the trickster, the great mother and father, and the dying god. There are archetypal stories as well. Examples are stories of great floods, virgin births, creation, paradise, the underworld, and a final apocalypse.

Archetypes have similar characteristics throughout literature and make unpredictable characters easier to understand. One archetype is the hero – defined as a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. However, there is more than one hero archetype.

There are seven main traits of epic heroes; they are of noble birth or elevated status. They have superhuman capabilities, are a vast traveler, an unmatched warrior, a cultural legend, demonstrate humility, and finally, battle superhuman foes.

12 Characteristics of Heroism

• Bravery.
• Conviction.
• Courage.
• Determination.
• Helpful.
• Honesty.
• Inspirational.
• Moral integrity.

A hero is anyone who can show courage when faced with a problem. A hero is a person who is able to help another in various ways. A person can become a hero by saving someone who is in danger. Another example of a hero is someone who is there to help others and gives them strength to go on through life’s difficulties.

TOP 10 REAL LIFE HEROES

• William Kyle Carpenter.
• James Blunt.
• Aleksandr Fyodorovich Akimov.
• Audie Leon Murphy.
• James Shaw Jr.
• Former NY Giants Linebacker Cole Farrand.
• Mamoudou Gassama.
• Good Samaritans in Arkansas.

Heroism consists of putting others first, even at your own peril. The noun heroism comes from the Greek hērōs, which referred to a demigod. As someone who shows great courage and valor is referred to as a hero, their actions are considered to be acts of heroism.

“A hero can be a person that saves lives and stuff, but a hero can be anyone that does something they have fear of but are brave enough to still do something. “A hero is someone who can be looked up to for their actions. Bravery is usually the biggest trait of a hero.