Archetypes in A Rose for Emily Archetypes are, by definition, previous images, characters, or patterns that recur throughout literature and though consistently enough to be considered a universal concept or situation. Archetypes also can be described as complexes of experiences that come upon us like fate, and their effects are felt in our most personal life. A Rose for Emily by William Faulkner contains many of this particular critical method. Although there are several archetypes found, the most important is Emily's father. Archetypes are like riverbeds which dry up when the water deserts them, but it can find it again at any time.