An archetype is basically an original model, if you will, of someone or something that other things are based off of. With this definition in mind, this term can be found throughout
Songs of Solomon. The "Seven Days" group, for example, that Guitar is involved in is one example. Although they do not promote being mimicked or copied, they are a model of a group that sought just vengeance for the white peoples' barbaric and hypocritical killings of black people. This group has the philosophy that many black people in America did at that time, that no unjustified killing should be left unanswered. In a similar sense, Macon Dead, represents the ideal business men that others attempt to follow in success and wealth. Although he is the polar opposite from being a model father or husband, he sacrifices these two roles in an effort to exude that businessman-excellence. He is never hesitant or lazy in getting things done, though it may hurt other people. He is fueled by a constant and incessant motivation to get his money from his tenants and maintain his success. He is cold and distant in his disposition for the sake of never getting too attached to anything so it will not interfere with his duties. He exudes all qualities of the ideal businessman, but not necessarily of an ideal man. The qualities that make him so successful in business distance him from his family, for whom he works so hard to get this money for. He views money and wealth as tangible evidence of success and cause for respect and admiration. However, in many ways, although he is wealthy, his money does not help his for he is a commonly disliked man among town and among his family. These and many more archetypes can be exemplified throughout Songs of Solomon.
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