What does "Archetype" symbolize in literature?

The term "archetype" in literature represents an ideal or universal character, theme, or symbol that recurs across different texts and cultures. Archetypes encapsulate shared human experiences and emotions, allowing readers to connect with the narrative on a deeper level. For example, the hero, the mentor, and the journey are common archetypes that resonate universally, helping to convey fundamental truths about life and human nature. Because these archetypes are prevalent in various narratives, they transcend cultural boundaries, illustrating themes such as love, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil, which are widely relatable. This universality is what makes archetypes a vital aspect of literary analysis and understanding character motivations and plot development across diverse works.