Atlantis as an allegory for something bigger

I want to open discussion into the possibility that the origin of the "Atlantis" story as told by Plato in two of his dialogues is not to be taken literally, but should be viewed in a light that points to a larger common tale told by almost all present and ancient cultures.

The concept of interest should be that "Atlantis" as told by Plato is mearly one incarnation of this idea and not the only one.

I would like to hear your opinions.