English Test Hero's Journey + The Epic of Gilgamesh

What is another word for The Hero’s Journey?

Monomyth

Who introduced the Monomyth

Joseph Campbell

What are the 3 stages of the Hero’s Journey?

Separation, Initiation, and Return

What is the order of the phases of the Hero’s Journey?

Call to Adventure, Assistance, Departure, Trials, Approach, Crisis, Treasure, Result, Return, New Life, Resolution, and Status Quo

Status Quo

the hero’s current situation

Call to Adventure

the hero receives an invitation or challenge

Assistance

the hero receives advice or assistance from a wise source

Departure

the hero crosses the threshold from the outside world to the special world

Trials

the hero must overcome trials (can be physical or psychological)

Approach

the hero must face his worst fear

Crisis

the hero faces death, only to be reborn

Treasure

the hero gains a special recognition, power, or treasure

Result

the result varies, monsters/enemies may bow down or chase the hero

Return

the hero reenters the ordinary world

New Life

the quest has changed the hero, who outgrew his previous life

Status Quo

the hero lives an upgraded life, not at all like it was before

Why is the Monomyth so common in world myth stories?

Humans tell stories to make sense of the world and the Hero’s Journey captures human experiences, such as leaving our comfort zone, facing problems, and working to improve ourself/the world.

What is the primary theme of the Epic of Gilgamesh

The search for immortality

What is an Epic Poem?

A long narrative poem (tells a story in verse0

What are the characteristics of an Epic Poem?

Long narrative poem, typically includes a journey across a variety of settings and terrains, features a hero with immense bravery and resolve, includes elements of the supernatural

Who was Gilgamesh?

Two-thirds god, one-third man

Epic Poem

Long narrative poem, elevated in theme, tone, and style, that celebrates heroic deeds/historically important events

Archetype

A basic plot, characters, symbol, or idea that recurs in literature of many cultures

Deus ex machina

Intervention of god(s) or supernatural forces in human events

Simile

Figure of speech in which two objects or concepts are compared using like or as

Metaphor

Figure of speech that makes a comparison between to unlike things (no use of like or as)

What are some examples of symbols or symbolic expressions along the Hero’s Journey?

water, battles, monsters, mountain moments, threshold moments crossing from one geographic place to another, gates/gateways, ferrymen or guides, special counselors or advisors, magical flowers or plants, gardens, serpents, ritual moments