Hero's Journey + Beowulf

Eng. 9 | Semester 1 Final Exam

The Monomyth

the basic structure that Joseph Campbell argues all hero quests follow, in his book The Hero with a Thousand Faces.

The Ordinary World

an ordinary world

The Odd Hero

main character who feels out of place in the ordinary world

The Call to Adventure

Something or someone that calls the hero away from the ordinary world

Entering the Unknown

the hero must quickly learn to respect the rules of the new world

Supernatural Aid

Either a mentor (usually magic wielding being) or a talisman (magic wielding object) to assist the hero on their journey.

Tests

small fights to add experience for the hero (and/or fluff)

Helpers

a character who provides the hero with essential support, guidance, or magical gifts necessary to overcome the challenges of the adventure. differentiate from supernatural aid in that they are often more companions than mentors.

Shadow

a character who represents the hero's darker, repressed, or unacknowledged aspects—their inner demons, hidden fears, and worst traits; often the main antagonist

Trickster

a character who often manifests as the comic relief in a story. a good trickster offers an outside perspective and opens up important questions.

Shape Shifters

a very layered character, who blurs the line between ally and enemy. often begin as an ally, then betray the hero at a critical moment. but can also waver back and forth in their loyalty.

Supreme Ordeal

the final battle a character must face in the climax of the story. sometimes called The Death and Rebirth

Reward and Journey Home

the hero may receive a reward from the ruler or residents of the new world and journey back to their ordinary world, the journey home may include some bumps in the road.