Karl Jung first explored the concept of archetypes, "'primordial images' shaped by the repeated experiences of our ancestors and expressed in myths, religions, dreams, fantasies, and powerfully in literature" (C. H. Holman, Handbook to Literature, 3rd. ed.).  Archetypes may be expressed in literature as images, plot patterns, and character types that occur frequently enough to evoke profound emotions in readers.  It is important to realize that the existence of an archetype in the collective human consciousness does not equate to existence of that archetype in "reality"; the existence of the archetype of mythical beasts (dragons, etc.), for example, does not prove that such beasts ever actually existed.

    Some examples of archetypal patterns in literature (and therefore in life) follow:

1. Creation

2. Armageddon (flood, fire)

3. Heaven and Hell (gods and devils)

4. Quest, journey, and odyssey

5. Death and rebirth

6. Rites of passage/initiation (i.e., ceremonies that mark transitions in life such as birth, marriage)

7. Generational conflicts

8. Transitory nature of youth/life (Proserpine)

9. Virginity and purity (Artemis)

10. States of peace (nirvana)

11. Forbidden knowledge/power (Faust)

12. The wanderer, often associated with the quest (Odysseus, Ancient Mariner)

13. The damsel in distress, often associated with virginity and purity (Andromeda)

14. The rebel, often associated with generational conflicts (Prometheus)