The Hero’s Journey outlines a storytelling pattern present in myths, epic tales, and contemporary stories. In this pattern, the hero sets out on a journey, confronts difficulties, and experiences personal change. For many writers, understanding this archetype is crucial in crafting compelling tales that resonate with readers. The framework, identified by Joseph Campbell in “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” outlines a series of stages that can guide storytelling and character development.
Table of Contents
The Beginning: The Ordinary World
The Hero’s Journey typically begins in what is known as the Ordinary World, where the hero’s everyday life is depicted. This stage sets the foundation for the hero’s character and demonstrates what they stand to lose.
Example: Harry Potter
J.K. Rowling portrays Harry Potter in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” as a neglected child surrounded by a family who ignore and mistreat him. His ordinary world is dreary, filled with mistreatment and loneliness. Readers empathize with Harry, which makes his subsequent transformation into a wizard even more impactful.
Applying the Concept
Writers can gain insights into building relatable characters by vividly illustrating their ordinary lives. This context enhances the stakes of the hero’s journey and amplifies the story’s emotional depth.
The Call to Adventure
Next, the hero receives a call to adventure. This moment catalyzes change. It often presents an opportunity, a challenge, or a dire emergency that disrupts the hero’s ordinary life.
Example: The Hunger Games
Katniss Everdeen’s call to action in Suzanne Collins’s “The Hunger Games” comes the second Prim gets selected for the brutal competition. At that moment, Katniss trades her quiet, survival-focused routine of hunting and gathering for a ruthless fight that could lead to death.
Real-World Application
This call to action is where tension begins, presenting the hero with a choice. Writers can create dramatic situations that require characters to respond, generating suspense and representing a pivotal moment in their character development.
Refusal of the Call
In many narratives, heroes may initially refuse the call to adventure due to fear, doubt, or insecurity. This stage illustrates the inner conflict the hero faces and further develops the character.
Example: The Hobbit
In “The Hobbit,” Bilbo Baggins initially declines the call from Gandalf and the dwarves to reclaim their homeland. His comfort in the Shire represents the classic reluctance of a hero before embarking on a transformative journey.
Importance for Writers
Refusal stages ground characters. Writers can use this phase to explore the hero’s background, fears, and motivations. This stage adds richness and complexity to the characters, making their eventual acceptance of the journey more profound.
Meeting the Mentor
Mentors offer heroes advice and training to overcome dangers and challenges. This sage figure often equips the hero with knowledge, tools, or essential training for the forthcoming trials.
Example: Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars
Obi-Wan Kenobi acts as Luke Skywalker’s mentor and guide in “Star Wars: A New Hope.” He introduces Luke to the Force, strengthens the young hero’s character, and explains clearly the risks involved as Luke moves toward his Jedi future.
Crafting Mentor Characters
Writers should define their mentor characters clearly. Mentors can be wise sages, quirky sidekicks, or even complex figures with their struggles. Injecting depth into the mentor’s character can enrich both the hero and the overall narrative.
Crossing the Threshold
The hero then crosses the threshold into a new world, signifying a commitment to the adventure. This moment is critical as it illustrates the hero’s choice to leave the comfort of their ordinary life behind.
Hypothetical Example: A Young Scientist
Imagine a young scientist who discovers an alien signal. By choosing to share this signal with the world rather than hide it out of fear, they cross the threshold into a realm of public scrutiny, danger, and adventure.
Applying the Threshold Moment
This stage allows writers to create distinct worlds that contrast with the ordinary life of the hero. Describing the new world vividly helps establish stakes and sets the tone for the ensuing adventure.
Tests, Allies, and Enemies
In this stage, heroes encounter various trials, meet allies, and face enemies. These experiences shape the hero’s journey and often introduce crucial character development.
Example: The Lord of the Rings
Frodo Baggins navigates complex challenges in “The Lord of the Rings,” repeatedly tested when escaping the relentless Ringwraiths and establishing bonds with Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, and other companions. Every struggle pushes Frodo to grow stronger. This growth makes him capable of enduring the One Ring’s constant burden.
Creating Subplots
Writers should craft tests that reveal the hero’s qualities and flaws. Including a robust cast of allies and adversaries can create subplots that deepen character interactions and increase narrative complexity.
The Approach to the Inmost Cave
At this point, the hero faces fears head-on or confronts the primary conflict. Extreme effort and preparation typically follow to overcome the approaching challenge.
Example: Mulan
In Disney’s “Mulan,” the approach occurs when Mulan and her fellow soldiers prepare to battle the Huns. Mulan’s hidden identity and the stakes of the impending conflict heighten the tension.
Structuring the Approach
Writers can create a buildup to the inmost cave by introducing elements that increase suspense. Doing this could involve revealing secrets or foreshadowing, which primes the audience for the hero’s ultimate challenge.
The Ordeal
This stage is the central crisis of the hero’s journey, where the character faces a significant challenge, often leading to a showdown with the primary antagonist. It’s a moment where the hero’s limits are tested.
Example: The Lion King
In “The Lion King,” the ordeal occurs when Simba confronts Scar and faces the truth about his past. This climactic battle not only tests Simba’s abilities but also his growth as a character.
Effective Conflict Creation
Writers should meticulously plan the ordeal to maximize its intensity. Elements like emotional stakes, dramatic revelations, and symbolic confrontations help create a gripping experience for the audience.
The Reward
After surviving the ordeal, the hero receives a reward. This prize could be a tangible item, new wisdom, or even reconciliation with past conflicts.
Example: The Matrix
In “The Matrix,” Neo’s reward for his trials comes when he finally understands his capabilities as “The One.” This revelation empowers him to confront his future challenges with renewed strength.
Designing the Reward
Writers can use the reward stage not only as a payoff for the character but also as a narrative pivot that shifts toward resolution. The reward should contribute meaningfully to the story, shaping the hero’s next steps.
The Road Back
As the journey nears its end, the hero must return to the ordinary world with newfound knowledge or power. This stage often includes a decision to go back and confront lingering challenges.
Example: Wonder Woman
In “Wonder Woman,” Diana’s road back occurs when she decides to return to her world to stop Ares, despite having faced so much in her quest. This moment solidifies her transformation from a naive warrior to a confident heroine.
Emphasizing Growth
Writers should ensure that the road back reflects the hero’s growth, showcasing how they’ve changed and what they’ve learned. Doing this adds a layer of emotional resonance to the story.
The Resurrection
This climactic stage symbolizes the hero’s final ordeal, culminating in a showdown that tests everything they’ve learned. It often results in a rebirth or transformation of the character.
Example: Thor
In “Thor: Ragnarok,” Thor’s resurrection occurs when he embraces his identity as the God of Thunder, realizing that his power isn’t just tied to his hammer. This acceptance empowers him in the final battle against Hela.
Crafting the Resurrection Scene
Writers should carefully construct resurrection scenes to highlight the hero’s growth and transformation. The emotional stakes should be high, emphasizing the overarching themes of the narrative.
Return with the Elixir
Finally, the hero steps back into daily existence. They bring back the “elixir,” which symbolizes newfound knowledge, wisdom, or a physical object that benefits others.
Example: The Little Prince
In “The Little Prince,” the elixir is not a tangible object but rather the lessons learned about love, friendship, and the importance of seeing with the heart. The prince’s journey enriches those he encounters.
Writing the Return
Writers can use the return stage to close character arcs and tie up loose ends. The elixir should resonate with the story’s themes, reinforcing the protagonist’s growth while benefiting the wider community.
The Hero’s Journey in Different Genres
While the hero’s journey is often associated with adventurous tales, it spans various genres, including romance, science fiction, and even non-fiction. Here are some examples of how it applies in different contexts:
Fantasy
In fantasy literature, the hero’s journey lends itself well to grand adventures. In “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss, Kvothe embarks on a journey that includes mentorship, tests of strength, and personal sacrifices, all while uncovering mysteries of the world around him.
Romance
In romance novels, the hero’s journey may focus more on emotional stakes rather than physical quests. Jane Austen shows this clearly in “Pride and Prejudice,” as Elizabeth Bennet confronts social expectations and understands herself better. These trials prepare Elizabeth emotionally, drawing her gradually toward a romantic partnership with Mr. Darcy.
Science Fiction
The hero’s journey also manifests in sci-fi narratives, where space odysseys highlight adventure and personal growth. In “Dune” by Frank Herbert, Paul Atreides’ evolution from noble heir to messianic figure showcases transformations shaped by societal expectations and personal strength.
Non-Fiction
Even in non-fiction, the hero’s journey can frame stories around personal development and overcoming obstacles. Biographies or memoirs often reveal the subject’s challenges and growth, such as in “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, where her journey encompasses her struggles and achievements.
Additional Information
The Hero’s Journey is a classic storytelling framework. There are some interesting secrets behind its structure that many may not know.
- The Mentor’s Role: Often overlooked, the mentor is crucial in the Hero’s Journey. This character not only guides the hero but often represents the wisdom and experience that the hero lacks, showcasing the importance of learning from others.
- Non-linear Journeys: While the Hero’s Journey is often depicted as a linear path, many stories utilize non-linear storytelling. Flashbacks or parallel timelines can deepen the hero’s experience and add layers to their character development.
- The Shadow: The villain or antagonist in many hero narratives represents the hero’s fears and weaknesses. This connection reveals that the true battle lies within, not just against an external foe.
- The Call to Adventure: More than just an event, the call to adventure can symbolize a rite of passage. It often reflects universal themes like growing up, facing fears, or confronting one’s destiny, resonating with audiences on a personal level.
- Transformation Over Achievement: Many stories emphasize the hero’s transformation rather than simply achieving their goal. The real journey often lies in their emotional or psychological growth, showing that true victory is about who the hero becomes.
- The Importance of Threshold Guardians: These characters challenge the hero’s readiness and commitment. They serve as gatekeepers, testing the hero before they embark on their quest, emphasizing that readiness often requires overcoming doubts or fears.
- Return with the Elixir: The hero’s return is not just physical—it’s about bringing back wisdom or knowledge that can benefit the community. This aspect highlights the impact of personal growth on the larger world around the hero.
- Feminine Influence: In many Hero’s Journeys, the presence of strong female characters is essential. Whether as mentors, allies, or even challengers, they contribute to the hero’s development and the overall narrative arc.
- The Impact of Culture: The Hero’s Journey can vary widely across cultures, reflecting different values and beliefs. This cultural lens can influence how the hero’s challenges and triumphs are portrayed, offering unique twists on the archetype.
- Endless Adaptability: The Hero’s Journey is versatile and can adapt to any genre, from epic fantasies to contemporary dramas. This flexibility allows writers to create fresh narratives while tapping into familiar structures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to the Hero’s Journey In Literature
Q. What is the Hero’s Journey?
A. The Hero’s Journey is a narrative framework that outlines the stages of a hero’s adventure. It describes how a hero goes from everyday life, faces challenges, and ultimately transforms.
Q. Who created the concept of the Hero’s Journey?
A. Joseph Campbell popularized the concept in his book “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” where he explored common patterns in myths and stories across different cultures.
Q. Why is the Hero’s Journey important in storytelling?
A. This structure shapes stories clearly. Readers quickly connect to characters, see their growth, and feel deeply involved in their journey.
Q. Can every story fit into the Hero’s Journey framework?
A. Not every story aligns perfectly with this framework. Many narratives may borrow elements of the Hero’s Journey, but don’t follow it strictly.
Q. How do modern stories use the Hero’s Journey?
A. Modern stories often adapt the Hero’s Journey to fit contemporary themes, exploring diverse characters and situations while maintaining the essence of character growth and adventure.
Q. Are there variations of the Hero’s Journey?
A. Yes, variations exist, such as the Heroine’s Journey, which focuses more on relationships and community rather than individual achievement.
Q. What are some examples of stories that follow the Hero’s Journey?
A. Classic examples include “The Odyssey,” “Star Wars,” and “The Lion King.” Each features a hero who embarks on a life-changing adventure.
Q. How can writers apply the Hero’s Journey to their work?
A. Writers may lean on these stages as signposts to shape character journeys, forcing characters into obstacles that promote growth.
Q. Does the Hero’s Journey relate to character development?
A. Absolutely! It emphasizes character growth as they confront conflicts and make choices that ultimately transform them by the end of the story.
Q. Why is the Hero’s Journey appealing to readers?
A. The Hero’s Journey resonates with readers because it reflects the universal themes of growth, challenge, and redemption found in our own lives.
Conclusion
The hero’s journey is a timeless narrative structure that resonates with readers across genres and cultures. By following this familiar path, authors can craft compelling stories that explore growth, challenges, and transformation. Whether it’s an epic fantasy, a gripping mystery, or a heartwarming romance, understanding the elements of the hero’s journey can enhance your storytelling. Embracing this framework not only captivates your audience but also elevates your characters, making their experiences relatable and impactful. So, next time you sit down to write, consider the journey your hero will undertake. It might just lead to an unforgettable tale!
