Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Archetypes are universally recognized symbols or patterns of behavior that are found in the collective unconscious. They appear across cultures and times, such as the "mother" archetype.
Related terms
Hero Archetype: This is a character who overcomes obstacles and achieves goals—like the thumbs-up emoji symbolizing success or approval.
Shadow Archetype: This represents dark, repressed aspects of personality—similar to the skull emoji representing danger or death.
Anima/Animus Archetype: These represent feminine inner personality in males (anima) and masculine inner personality in females (animus)—like female/male gender emojis used to express femininity/masculinity.