Course 9—Lecture

Symbols—archetypes

Archetypes (universal symbols) are found in myths, many of which share a basic structure.

Cinderella—a pattern (motif) in hundreds of folk tales around the globe. A young girl (or boy) of lowly stature is elevated—she is recognized for her inner worth.

The hero—from Hercules to Beowulf to Luke Skywalker, even U.S. Presidents shape their personal histories to fit the same timeless structure:
• accepting the call to action
• facing adversity
• achieving victory and transformation