Definition+and+Pronunciation


 * http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/archetype

Archetype (ahr-ki-tahyp) ** : a blocked off memory or our past of pre-human existence, a type of struggle or character to which a culture relates without prior knowledge.

 It is believed that archetypes are the result of collective unconsciousness that channel experiences an emotions, often resulting in typical pattern behaviors with certain outcomes. It is believed that they are:  Literary archetypes usually appear as characters, situations, and symbols. They are used to add depth, provided underlying messages, and support the author's purpose.
 * Primordial: they are engraved into our understanding even before we are born
 * Universal: they are found all over the world with differences but the idea itself is always the same.