Hero's Journey Archetypes

Call to Adventure

First stage of the journey which signifies that destiny has summoned the hero

Refusal of the Call

The future hero refuses to heed the call due to a sense of duty, fear, or insecurity

Supernatural Aid

Protective and benign figure who acts as a guide and helper

Crossing the First Threshold 

When the hero crosses into the field of adventure and enters into the unknown

Belly of the Whale

The final separation from the hero’s known world and self

The Road of Trials

A series of tasks, tests, or ordeals that the hero must undergo to begin transformation

Meeting of the Goddess

The hero experiences a love that has the power and significance of a powerful unconditional love

Temptress

Temptations that may lead the hero to abandon or stray from the quest

Atonement with the Father

The hero confronts whatever holds the ultimate power in his/her life; usually the father figure. All previous steps have been moving toward this point

Apotheosis

To deify; the period of rest, peace, and fulfillment before the hero returns

Ultimate Boon

The ultimate goal of the quest

Refusal of the Return

The hero wants to stay in the place where they have found bliss and enlightenment

Magic Flight

The hero escapes with the boon because gods are jealously guarding it

Rescue from Without

The hero needs a guide to bring them back to everyday life, especially if they are weakened

Crossing of the Return Threshold 

Retaining the wisdom gained on the quest and integrating that into everyday life

Master of Two Worlds

Achieving a balance between the material and spiritual

Freedom to Live

Living in the moment

Magic Weapon

The hero’s ability to use a piece of technology/equipment in order to combat evil

Loyal Retainers

One who protects the hero and reflects the nobility of the hero