Hero's Journey

Hero’s Journey

Created by Joseph Campbell, describes the typical adventure of the archetype called The Hero, and is a 12 step cycle most narratives follow.

1. Ordinary World

Setting and the main character are introduced in their normal life

2. Call to Adventure

Main character finds a problem that they need to solve or a task. This “call” makes them go out on a journey that is away from their normal life.

3. Refusal to call

The MC doesn’t really accept the task or is unsure about whether they really should go. THIS STEP IS USUALLY SKIPPED THOUGH

4. Mentor Helper

New character comes, who is usually an expert, that helps the MC with completing the task

5. Crossing the Threshold

The MC, mentor, and maybe others in their party are waiting to cross the line between their normal lifestyle and how they complete their journey. doesn’t always has to be physical as the transition between normal lifestyle and journey can just be a feeling or an emotion the MC hasn’t felt before

6. Tests, Allies, and/or enemies

The MC and/or their party have to solve a mini-journey, people, or fight. The MC usually becomes wiser and more intelligent/their realization point.

7. The approach

MC approaches their goal

Struggles with it

Preparing for the final struggle

8. Ordeal Death/Rebirth

Final struggle

MC loses something like their mentor

Becomes stronger (Why it’s called the rebirth)

Wins barely

9. The reward

The MC recieves something

Reward could be that they complete their task

10. The Road Back

Summary of what happen as the MC returns

Hero actually started to comprehend what they actually accomplished

Needs to ensure their normal world/lifestyle is doing well

11. Resurrection/Atonement

Hero accepts their travels and growth

Accepts wisdom and strength

Others help the MC get into this process

12. The Return

MC returns to their world that is normal but the outside world is changed.

MC takes the reward back home and accomplishes task (Only if like going back to their home was apart of it)

They have a new role in their normal world