What is the archetype in By the Waters Of Babylon for The Quest to Know who you are, with an example from the book
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In the novel "By the Waters of Babylon" by Stephen Vincent Benét, the archetype of "The Quest to Know Who You Are" is represented through the main character, John, and his journey to discover his true identity and purpose. This archetype can be understood as a hero's journey to seek self-realization and understanding.
To identify an example of this archetype in the book, we need to look for instances where John actively searches for answers about his identity and explores his inner self. One such example occurs when John decides to break the tribal taboo and make the dangerous journey to the Place of the Gods (a post-apocalyptic New York City). He does this with the hope of gaining knowledge and discovering the truth about his people's past.
Throughout his quest, John encounters various challenges and revelations, which contribute to his understanding of who he truly is and his place in the world. He explores the remnants of the old civilization, reads forbidden books, and faces the fearsome Dead Places to gather clues about the past. Ultimately, John's quest leads him to uncover the truth about his ancestors and understand his own potential as a future leader.
By following the archetype of "The Quest to Know Who You Are," John embarks on a transformative journey that not only helps him gain self-awareness but also allows him to challenge and redefine the beliefs and traditions of his society.