An archetype in psychology is a pattern. It contains definition of specific characteristics integral to its being. Embodying the essence of people, events and belief systems, archetypes differ from stereotypes and prototypes.
Identity of Archetypes
The potential exists for countless archetypes and sub-archetypes. They're all based on the concepts of the original archetypes described by analytical psychology founder Carl Jung. Archetypes dwell in the collective unconscious but their influence resonates throughout life.
The Jungian archetypes are:
animal - primal instincts
trickster / fool
wise elder / mage
child - also appears as sub-archetypes ie innocent child, neglected child, divine child
father - protection, wisdom, guidance - Sun
mother - compassion, innate knowledge, caregiver - Moon
maiden
psychoid (added by Jung 1947)
self
persona (mask)
anima (feminine) in man
animus (masculine) in woman
Archetypes manifest in various forms, such as the personification of an eternal truth, a behavior pattern ingrained in human nature or a blueprint for future creations. The archetype produces a model of perfection influencing development of other elements.
From the consistent patterns of archetypes arise symbols. These pass through the personal unconscious into the ego, where they are then subjectively interpreted, according to qualities they manifest upon emerging. The qualities can be real (intrinsic) or applied.
Archetypes vs. Stereotypes
In psychology and literature an archetype differs from a stereotype in that archetypes are guidelines for forming a concept or image. Archetypes can be life events, people and other animals, ideas or even feelings.
Stereotypes are the bad actor; falling into a wedding cake; dumb blonde. Archetypes are building blocks. Consider atoms. It takes 380,000 years for atoms to evolve to today's state. The first perfect atom is the archetype for others, defining the quintessence of atoms.
Born in the collective unconscious, archetypes are cross-cultural and timeless. An archetype is a fundamental concept representing a universally understood symbol or motif. A stereotype is a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image of the subject.
It's hard to stereotype atoms, but one can stereotype their constructions. Stereotypes are generalizations of a subject, often exaggerated, receiving their attributes from external sources. With inherent logic. archetypes are pure form.
In psychology, archetypes represent universal symbols and patterns deeply ingrained in the human psyche. Archetypes such as hero, mother, or trickster follow their own inherent logic, or set of characteristics and behaviors recognized across time and space.
Archetypes in myths, dreams, or stories resonate on a primal level, tapping into shared human experiences and emotions. The concept of an archetype being a pure form refers to its essence, its most fundamental and unchanging nature.
Archetypes vs. Prototypes
An archetype serves as the pure form embodiment of a particular concept. It stands as the pinnacle all other instances within its category emulate. It represents the epitome of excellence and perfection.
In contrast, a prototype is a preliminary model, rudimentary or flawed, serving as a starting point for further development and refinement. The prototype for the perfect atom is the imperfect atom. Prototypes often undergo numerous modifications.
The archetype exudes a sense of timelessness and universality. The prototype symbolizes a stage of experimentation and innovation, paving the way for creative exploration and advancement.
Archetypes play a crucial role in shaping perceptions, beliefs, and interactions with the world. Symbolic templates, they facilitate understanding of complex ideas and experiences. Recognizing and exploring archetypes, one gains insight into the collective unconscious.
Archetypes extend beyond individual expressions. They gravitate to cultural myths, religious symbols and literary motifs, providing a universal framework for storytelling and communication across societies and the passage of time.
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