What do we call a recurring symbol, character, landscape, or event found in myth and literature across different cultures?

An archetype refers to a typical example or a universally recognized symbol, character, or theme that recurs across different texts and cultures. These archetypes serve as foundational elements in storytelling and literature that resonate with readers because they reflect shared human experiences and common themes in various narratives.

For instance, the hero's journey is an archetypal pattern seen in many myths and stories where a character embarks on an adventure, faces challenges, and ultimately grows or transforms. This recurring nature of archetypes allows them to bridge cultural differences, enabling readers from diverse backgrounds to connect with stories on a deeper level.

In contrast, a theme is a central idea or message within a specific text, while a motif refers to a repeated element that contributes to the overall theme but does not necessarily carry the same broad, universal significance as an archetype. A backdrop generally refers to the setting or environment within which a story takes place rather than a symbolic or thematic pattern.