What’s the Hero’s Journey?
The Hero’s Journey, also known as the Monomyth, is a narrative template that describes the typical adventure of the archetype known as the Hero. This journey is a universal story structure that has been used in countless tales across various cultures and time periods. It provides a framework for understanding the transformative experiences that characters undergo, allowing readers and viewers to connect with the hero’s quest on a deeper level. In this article, we will explore the stages of the Hero’s Journey and how it has influenced storytelling throughout history.
The Hero’s Journey was first described by Joseph Campbell in his seminal work “The Hero with a Thousand Faces” (1949). Campbell’s research revealed that many stories, regardless of their cultural or historical origins, follow a similar pattern. This pattern consists of several stages that the hero must pass through in order to achieve his or her ultimate goal.
The First Stage: The Ordinary World
The first stage of the Hero’s Journey is the Ordinary World. In this stage, the hero is introduced to the reader, and their normal life is established. The hero is often depicted as someone who is average or unremarkable, with no special skills or qualities that would make them suited for adventure. This stage sets the stage for the hero’s transformation and growth.
The Call to Adventure
The next stage is the Call to Adventure. This is when the hero is presented with a challenge or a problem that they must face. The call can come from an external source, such as a mentor or a friend, or from an internal source, such as a desire for change or a personal crisis. The hero may initially resist the call, but eventually, they are compelled to embark on the journey.
The Refusal of the Call
After receiving the call, the hero may initially refuse the journey. This refusal can be due to fear, uncertainty, or a sense of duty. The hero may feel that they are not ready or that they have too much at stake to leave their ordinary life behind. However, the call persists, and the hero eventually succumbs to the pressure to accept the challenge.
The Meeting with the Mentor
The hero’s journey continues with the Meeting with the Mentor. This mentor is a guide or a teacher who provides the hero with the knowledge, skills, or tools needed to face the challenges ahead. The mentor can be a wise elder, a mystical figure, or even a close friend. This stage is crucial for the hero’s development, as it helps them prepare for the trials that lie ahead.
The Crossing the First Threshold
Once the hero has accepted the call and met their mentor, they must Cross the First Threshold. This is the point at which the hero leaves their ordinary world behind and enters the Special World of the adventure. The hero may face resistance or opposition from friends and family, but they must persevere and continue on their journey.
The Tests, Allies, and Enemies
In the Special World, the hero encounters various tests, allies, and enemies. These challenges are designed to help the hero grow and develop their skills. The hero may face physical, emotional, or moral trials, and they must rely on their mentor and newfound allies to overcome these obstacles.
The Approach to the Inmost Cave
The Approach to the Inmost Cave is the final stage before the hero faces the central crisis of the story. This stage is often filled with tension and anticipation, as the hero prepares to confront the ultimate challenge. The hero may face additional tests or setbacks, but they must remain focused on their goal.
The Ordeal
The Ordeal is the central crisis of the story, where the hero faces their greatest challenge. This is a moment of truth where the hero’s strengths and weaknesses are tested to the limit. The outcome of the Ordeal determines the hero’s fate and the success of their quest.
The Reward
After surviving the Ordeal, the hero is rewarded for their efforts. This reward can come in the form of a new understanding, a magical artifact, or a transformation of the hero’s character. The Reward signifies the hero’s growth and their readiness to return to the Ordinary World.
The Return with the Elixir
The final stage of the Hero’s Journey is the Return with the Elixir. The hero returns to the Ordinary World with the knowledge, wisdom, and power gained from their adventure. The hero uses this newfound knowledge to help others and to improve their own life. The Return with the Elixir is a celebration of the hero’s transformation and their role in the world.
The Hero’s Journey is a timeless narrative structure that has captivated audiences for centuries. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to resonate with the human experience, as we all face our own challenges and strive for personal growth. By understanding the stages of the Hero’s Journey, we can appreciate the depth and complexity of the stories that have shaped our culture and continue to inspire us today.
