The Hero's Journey

The Hero's Journey

1. The Separation

   • The Call to Adventure: Usually there is a discovery, some event, or some danger that starts them on the heroic path.
   • The Ordinary World: Heroes exit in a world that is considered ordinary or uneventful by those who live there.
   • Entering the Unknown: As they embark on their journey, the heroes enter a world they have never experienced before. It might be filled with supernatural creatures, breathtaking sights, and the constant threat of death.
   • Supernatural Aid/ Meeting with the Mentor: "Above the law of nature". Heroes are started on their journey by a character who has mastered the laws of the outside world and come back to bestow wisdom upon them.

2. The Initiation & Transformation

   • Allies & Helpers: Every hero needs a helper, much like every superhero needs a sidekick. Most heroes would fail miserably without their helpers.
   • The Road of Trials: A series of tests, tasks, or ordeals that the person must undergo to begin the transformation. Often the person fails one or more of these tests which often occur in threes. These tests make the hero stronger, preparing them for the final showdown.
   • The Supreme Ordeal: At long last they reach the Supreme Ordeal, the obstacle they have journeyed so far to overcome. All the hero's training and toil come into play now.

3. The Return

   • The Magic Flight: After the heroes complete the Supreme Ordeal and have the reward firmly in hand, all that is left is for them to return home.
   • Confronting the Father: The hero must confront whatever holds the ultimate power in his or her life.
   • Master of Two Worlds/ Restoring the World: Success on the heroes' quest is life-changing, for them and often for many others.