Joseph Campbell’s The Key Stages Of The Hero's Journey

 

Joseph Campbell’s

The Key Stages Of The Hero's Journey

Joseph Campbell outlines the key stages of the hero's journey, also known as the monomyth, in his book "The Hero with a Thousand Faces." These stages represent the universal pattern found in myths and stories from various cultures. Here are the main stages along with brief explanations of each:

 

The Ordinary World:

The hero starts in a mundane or familiar environment, often feeling discontented or unaware of their potential. This stage establishes the hero's normal life before the adventure begins.

 

The Call to Adventure:

The hero receives a call to leave their ordinary world and embark on a journey or quest. This call may come from an external source or an internal desire for change or growth.

 

Refusal of the Call:

 The hero initially hesitates or refuses to accept the call to adventure due to fear, self-doubt, or a sense of obligation to their current life. This stage represents the hero's reluctance to leave their comfort zone.

 

Meeting the Mentor:

The hero encounters a mentor or guide who provides guidance, advice, or supernatural aid to help them on their journey. The mentor often imparts wisdom, teaches skills, or bestows magical objects necessary for the hero's success.

 

 

Crossing the Threshold:

The hero commits to leaving their ordinary world behind and enters a new, unfamiliar realm or adventure. This crossing represents a significant step into the unknown and marks the beginning of the hero's transformation.

 

Tests, Allies, and Enemies:

The hero faces a series of trials, challenges, and obstacles on their journey. They may encounter allies who assist them, enemies who oppose them, and tests that push them to their limits. These experiences shape the hero's character and prepare them for the ultimate ordeal.

 

Approach to the Inmost Cave:

The hero approaches a dangerous or unknown place, often the heart of their quest or the lair of their greatest challenge. This stage builds tension as the hero prepares to confront their deepest fears or adversaries.

 

The Ordeal:

The hero confronts their greatest fear, undergoes a life-threatening trial, or faces a decisive battle that tests their courage, strength, or resolve. This ordeal represents a pivotal moment of transformation and marks the hero's darkest hour.

Reward (Seizing the Sword):

After overcoming the ordeal, the hero achieves their goal, gains valuable insights, or obtains a significant reward. This reward may take the form of newfound knowledge, a magical object, or a tangible victory that propels the hero forward on their journey.

 

The Road Back:

The hero begins the journey back to their ordinary world, carrying the lessons learned and treasures gained during their adventure. This stage often involves challenges or obstacles that test the hero's resolve and commitment to their quest.

 

The Resurrection:

The hero faces one final, life-threatening challenge or ordeal that represents the ultimate test of their transformation. This stage symbolizes the hero's rebirth or renewal and underscores their readiness to return to the ordinary world as a changed person.

 

Return with the Elixir:

The hero returns to their ordinary world, bringing back the rewards, wisdom, or insights gained during their journey. This return may lead to personal growth, societal change, or the fulfillment of the hero's destiny, marking the completion of their quest.