What is Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey?
Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, also known as the Monomyth, is a framework for understanding the basic narrative arc found in many stories across cultures and time. First introduced in Campbell’s 1949 book “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” this concept has become a cornerstone of storytelling and has influenced countless filmmakers, writers, and artists. The Hero’s Journey outlines the stages that a hero goes through on their quest, from the initial call to adventure to the ultimate return with a transformed sense of self.
The Hero’s Journey is typically divided into three main stages: Departure, Initiation, and Return. Each stage is further broken down into specific phases, creating a comprehensive structure that can be applied to a wide range of narratives.
Departure: The Call to Adventure
The first stage of the Hero’s Journey is the Departure, which begins with the hero’s ordinary world. In this phase, the hero is introduced to the reader, and their daily life is depicted. The hero may be a person of average abilities, living a seemingly ordinary life. However, the hero is soon presented with a Call to Adventure, which represents a challenge or a problem that requires the hero to leave their familiar surroundings and embark on a quest.
The Call to Adventure can come from various sources, such as a mentor, a loved one, or even an external event. The hero initially resists this call, as they may be afraid of the unknown or reluctant to leave their comfortable life behind. However, the hero eventually accepts the call and begins their journey.
Departure: Refusal of the Call
The next phase of the Departure is the Refusal of the Call. Here, the hero is hesitant to leave their ordinary world and face the challenges ahead. The hero may experience doubts, fears, or even a personal tragedy that further reinforces their reluctance. This phase is essential in developing the hero’s character and establishing their motivation for the journey.
Departure: Meeting the Mentor
After the Refusal of the Call, the hero encounters a Mentor. The Mentor is a guide or advisor who provides the hero with the necessary knowledge, skills, or tools to embark on their quest. The Mentor may also help the hero overcome their initial reluctance and prepare them for the challenges ahead.
Initiation: The Journey
The second stage of the Hero’s Journey is the Initiation, which involves the hero’s journey into the unknown and the challenges they face. This stage is further divided into three phases: Trials, Allies, and Enemies.
Initiation: Trials
During the Trials phase, the hero encounters various challenges and obstacles that test their abilities and character. These trials are designed to teach the hero valuable lessons and help them grow. The hero may also encounter supernatural creatures or otherworldly beings during this phase.
Initiation: Allies
As the hero progresses through the trials, they may meet other characters who join their quest. These Allies provide support, guidance, and additional skills that help the hero overcome their challenges. The Allies also contribute to the hero’s development and the story’s dynamics.
Initiation: Enemies
The Enemies phase involves the hero facing their arch-nemesis or the main antagonist of the story. This confrontation is often the climax of the hero’s journey and tests their resolve and growth. The hero must overcome their enemies to continue their quest.
Return: The Road Back
The final stage of the Hero’s Journey is the Return, where the hero returns to their ordinary world with the knowledge and wisdom gained from their journey. This stage is divided into three phases: The Rescue, The Crossing of the Return Threshold, and The Master of Two Worlds.
Return: The Rescue
In the Rescue phase, the hero must return to the land of the Ordinary World to rescue someone or something that was left behind during the journey. This could be a loved one, a mentor, or even a part of the hero’s own identity.
Return: The Crossing of the Return Threshold
The Crossing of the Return Threshold is the moment when the hero crosses back into their ordinary world, carrying the knowledge and wisdom gained from their journey. This phase often involves a transformative experience that changes the hero’s perspective on their life and the world around them.
Return: The Master of Two Worlds
In the final phase of the Return, the hero becomes the Master of Two Worlds. They have integrated the lessons learned from their journey and now possess the ability to navigate both the ordinary world and the world of adventure. The hero uses their newfound wisdom to help others and make a positive impact on their community.
In conclusion, Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey is a powerful tool for understanding the universal narrative structure found in many stories. By analyzing the stages and phases of the journey, writers and storytellers can create more compelling and relatable narratives that resonate with audiences across cultures and time.
