Arnold Friend Archetypes

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In literature, Archetypal Criticism is a critical approach where the reader interprets the meaning of a story by looking at the archetypal characters, events, and symbols that it contains. In general, an archetype is a universal, primordial representation of an event or character that is seen as a general blueprint for stories and myths, such as the Hero or Death and Rebirth (Meyer 1587). Archetypes can be very important in identifying and supporting a theme by giving us background and references for aspects throughout the story. Carol Joyce Oates uses a couple vital archetypes in her short story, “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been,” a tale about Connie, a teenage girl, who goes through an innocence to experience situation, signifying a transition from childhood to adulthood. Arnold Friend is an important character in Connie’s story because he is one of the main reasons she goes undergoes a change. In short, while Connie is going through a teenage phase of exploring sexuality, he comes to Connie’s house to …show more content…

Greg Laurie describes the devil as a sly, smart person, in his article “The Truth About the Devil,” and says that even though Satan does not know everything, he knows how to use what he has to lure you to him. Right off the bat, Arnold tells Connie that he knows her family is out and for how long. He also mentions her best friend and other friends by name and tells her, “’I know everybody’ (4)”. This shocks Connie and I think makes her fear that he will hurt them if she does not comply. Also, later he remarks that he knows about old woman down the street who died. Likewise, I believe he intends for this information to scare Connie into submission. He is trying to make her believe that he has all the power and can use that power to control her. The devil archetype is the same way; he will use what he has to get you to accept his offers and give him your

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