The Father archetype combines a talent for creating or initiating with the ability to oversee others, whether a biological family or a group of creative people. Although the Father has taken on negative connotations associated historically with paternalism and male dominance, we should not lose sight of its primary characteristics of courage—think of Abraham leaving the home of his ancestors to father a new race in a strange land—and protectiveness. A true Father guides and shields those under his care, sacrificing his own desires when that’s appropriate. The positive Father archetype is the great protector, a loving, caring, and understanding leader. Over time the Father evolves into the Patriarch, a grandfather and carrier of wisdom for the family. The shadow Father emerges when that caring guidance and protection turns into dictatorial control or abuse of authority. The Mafia is an aspect of the shadow side of the Father, with the grandfather at the head of that tribal system. Divorce and other contemporary social factors have contributed to a higher incidence of fathers abandoning their children, which has engendered a destabilization of the Father/Mother archetypal system. Being a biological father and family man clearly is not enough to include this archetype in your intimate circle. You will need to uncover a life-long attachment to the role of family Patriarch, however you conceive of that family.
Film Reference: Spencer Tracy in 'Father of the Bride'
Film Reference: Spencer Tracy in 'Father of the Bride'