What is the Call to Adventure in Hero’s Journey?
The Call to Adventure is a pivotal moment in Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, a narrative template that outlines the stages of a hero’s quest. This concept is deeply embedded in storytelling, providing a framework for understanding the transformative experiences that shape the hero’s character. At its core, the Call to Adventure is the catalyst that propels the hero from their ordinary world into the realm of adventure, ultimately leading to personal growth and enlightenment. This article delves into the essence of the Call to Adventure, its significance in the Hero’s Journey, and its impact on storytelling across various mediums.
Understanding the Call to Adventure
The Call to Adventure is characterized by an invitation or challenge that disrupts the hero’s mundane existence. This disruption can manifest in various forms, such as a prophecy, a mysterious message, or an unexpected encounter. The Call is often accompanied by a sense of destiny, urging the hero to embrace their role in the greater narrative. This moment is critical, as it separates the hero from their ordinary life and thrusts them into the unknown.
In many stories, the Call to Adventure is a response to a crisis or a problem that the hero is unable to solve in their current state. For example, in “The Lord of the Rings,” Frodo Baggins is called to adventure when he learns that the One Ring must be destroyed to save Middle-earth from darkness. This Call forces him to leave his comfortable life behind and embark on a perilous journey.
Significance in the Hero’s Journey
The Call to Adventure is the first stage in Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, a narrative structure that consists of 17 stages. This initial stage sets the stage for the hero’s transformation, as it forces them to confront their fears and insecurities. The Call to Adventure serves several purposes in the Hero’s Journey:
1. It introduces the hero to their destiny, compelling them to take action.
2. It creates a sense of purpose and direction, giving the hero a reason to leave their ordinary life.
3. It establishes the hero’s initial state of being, which will be contrasted with their transformed state after the journey.
The Call to Adventure is a powerful tool for engaging the audience, as it taps into the universal desire for change and growth. It resonates with the audience’s own experiences of being called to face challenges and overcome obstacles in their lives.
Impact on Storytelling
The Call to Adventure has had a profound impact on storytelling across various mediums. From literature to film, this concept has been used to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Here are a few examples of how the Call to Adventure has influenced storytelling:
1. Literature: In “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Scout Finch is called to adventure when her father, Atticus, becomes the defense attorney for a black man accused of raping a white woman. This Call propels Scout into the realm of moral growth and understanding.
2. Film: In “Star Wars,” Luke Skywalker is called to adventure when he discovers that he is a Jedi and that the fate of the galaxy depends on him. This Call sets him on a journey of self-discovery and heroism.
3. Video Games: In “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” Link is called to adventure when he learns that he must defeat Calamity Ganon to save Hyrule. This Call drives the player through a vast and immersive world, filled with challenges and triumphs.
In conclusion, the Call to Adventure is a fundamental element of the Hero’s Journey, providing the impetus for the hero’s transformation. This concept has become a cornerstone of storytelling, influencing countless narratives across various mediums. By embracing the Call to Adventure, both authors and audiences can embark on a shared journey of growth, discovery, and enlightenment.
