Final answer:
An archetype in literature is a character type that other characters are modeled after. The 'tragic hero' archetype, seen in works like Macbeth and Oedipus Rex, is a prime example. The archetype typically portrays a character with noble qualities who meets a tragic end due to their own flaw or external factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
An archetype is a character type that is commonly found in literature, representing a universally recognized pattern or symbol. One example of an archetype is the 'tragic hero,' a character who possesses noble qualities but meets a tragic end due to their own flaw or a combination of external factors. This archetype can be seen in many literary works, such as Shakespeare's Macbeth or Sophocles' Oedipus Rex.
A tragic hero typically exhibits characteristics like ambition, hubris, and a fatal flaw, ultimately leading to their downfall. They often experience a reversal of fortune and undergo a catharsis, eliciting pity and fear from the audience. Other characters may be modeled after the tragic hero archetype, incorporating similar attributes and facing similar circumstances.
Therefore, the 'tragic hero' archetype is the best example of a character type that other characters are commonly modeled after in literature.
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