The Hero’s JourneyTHE PATH TO DISCOVERY

The Hero’s Journey

Universal pattern found in myths/narratives: they all share the same basic elements and stages.

While the adventure may be different, key elements of the journey are the same.

Also known as monomyths, these stories include ‘archetypes’:

◦ Generic, idealized model of a person, object, or idea from which similar instances are derived, copied, patterned. A bit like a stereotype, but more complex.

Stages 1 & 2: Separation & Call

Separation:

The Hero is dragged from the comforts of home to experience growth and change.

The Call:

Realization of imbalance or injustice in the hero’s life that invites him/her into the adventure, the unknown.

Stage 3: Threshold

The jumping off point for the adventure; the point between known and unknown.

Threshold Guardian(s): obstacles that interfere with or delay the start of the journey.

◦ Can be literal (physical barriers, people) or figurative (fears/doubts).

◦ Often needed, as the hero is not ready to begin the journey due to youth (Harry is about to turn 11, Arthur is nearly 16)

Stage 4: Challenges and Temptations

Obstacles/difficult experiences that test the hero. The hero emerges stronger from each challenge.

Mentor

A guide that keeps the hero focused on his/her goal. Helps hero obtain the skills to overcome challenges. Mentors must often die so the hero can face his/her biggest challenge alone (Obi Wan, Dumbledore, Cinna).

Talisman

Just when things are at their worst, help in the form of a supernatural gift…

Produces magical effects that ‘saves’ the hero. Can be a person or a thing.

Stage 5: The Abyss

The greatest challenge of the hero’s journey where one must "slay the dragon” or melt the wicked witch.

It may involve a Journey to the Underworld.

Stage 6: Transformation/Atonement

The hero experiences a sudden change in the way he/she thinks or views life.

Transformation often occurs through death and rebirth, which is often symbolic of the old self dying and new self being reborn (think of the legendary phoenix).

Stage 7: The Return/Sharing the Gift

This is the final stage.

The hero has returned, ready to share the gift of experience, knowledge, and wisdom—gained through the journey—with the broader community.