Archetype as a unit of semiosphere

Abstract

In this article the archetypes are considered as elements of the semiosphere due to which the transfer of «non-genetic memory of culture» from one generation to another takes place. The symbolic nature of the archetype is explored in the mainstream of modern semiotics. Particular attention is paid to the literary archetype, representation of which is possible on the material of art texts of different levels. The author makes a supplement to already existing models of literary archetypes, highlighting the archetypal content of the so-called conceptual metaphors.