Universal, inherited patterns or images in Jung's collective unconscious that influence human behavior and experience. These include figures like the Mother, Hero, Shadow, and Wise Old Man that appear across cultures in myths, dreams, and stories.
From Greek 'archetypos' meaning 'original pattern' or 'model,' literally 'first-molded.' Jung borrowed this term from philosophy, where Plato used it to describe perfect, eternal forms that earthly things imperfectly copy.
Archetypes are like psychological templates that explain why certain characters and stories feel instantly familiar—the wise mentor, the innocent child, the trickster—these patterns are hardwired into human psychology! That's why Star Wars feels mythic to people worldwide; it taps into archetypal patterns we all unconsciously recognize.
Same as 'archetypal'—Jungian typologies historically centered masculine agency. Feminine archetypes were framed as complementary rather than autonomous.
When citing archetypes, explicitly name diverse gendered expressions: Hero (any gender), Caregiver (any gender), Lover (LGBTQ+ affirming), Creator (women inventors, artists, founders).
["character patterns","symbolic roles","story templates"]
Bolen's 'Goddesses in Everywoman' reframed feminine archetypes as powerful agents, not passive muses.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.