Archetypes in Literature

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to archetypes in literature, providing definitions and descriptions for each term.

Archetype

An original pattern or model from which all things of the same kind are derived, often represented through typical characters, actions, or situations in literature.

Collective Unconscious

A term introduced by psychologist Carl Jung, referring to the part of the unconscious mind shared among beings of the same species, containing memories and experiences.

The Quest

An archetypal situation involving a search for something that, when found, brings restoration or salvation.

The Initiation

An archetypal situation where a character undergoes a rite of passage, gaining maturity and newfound awareness.

Death and Rebirth

An archetypal situation representing a cycle seen in nature, often symbolizing moral and spiritual regeneration.

The Fall

An archetypal situation indicating a descent from a higher to a lower state, often leading to loss of innocence and paradise.

Battle Between Good and Evil

An archetypal situation depicting the eternal conflict between opposing forces, symbolizing moral and ethical dilemmas.

The Hero

A larger-than-life character who often goes on a journey or quest, characterized by noble qualities and abilities.

The Anti-Hero

A character who lacks conventional heroic attributes, often flawed and relatable, appealing to the audience's sense of realism.

The Damsel in Distress

A vulnerable woman who needs rescuing by the hero, often placed in danger by a villain.

The Mentor

A wise and trusted guide who assists or instructs the hero, often providing necessary support and wisdom.

The Temptress

A character, usually female, who uses her allure and charm to manipulate or lead the hero to downfall.

Monster/Villain

The antagonist representing evil forces, opposing the protagonist and creating challenges.

The Scapegoat

A character or entity unjustly blamed for problems, often sacrificed to restore harmony.

The Underdog

A character who is at a disadvantage but overcomes obstacles to achieve success against odds.

Light vs. Darkness

Symbolic archetypes representing hope, knowledge (light) and despair, ignorance (darkness).

Water vs. Desert

Symbolic archetypes where water represents life and rebirth, while the desert symbolizes barrenness and ethical decay.

Seasons

Symbolic representations connecting seasonal changes with human experiences, such as birth and death.

Colors in Archetypes

Specific colors that symbolize various attributes or emotions, like black for death and purity for white.

The Garden

An archetypal setting representing paradise, fertility, and the idyllic state of existence, often juxtaposed with fall.