The Hero's Journey Study Notes

THE HERO’S JOURNEY

Introduction to Joseph Campbell

  • Joseph Campbell: American mythological researcher known for his seminal work, The Hero with a Thousand Faces.

  • Extensive research uncovered universal structures in hero myths across different cultures leading to the concept of monomyth.

  • Influence: Campbell's work inspired creators like George Lucas (Star Wars) who emphasized the timelessness of the story structure.

  • Variability: Multiple interpretations of the Hero’s Journey exist, leading to diverse names for the stages while retaining core elements.

THE ORDINARY WORLD

  • Definition: The hero starts in a familiar world perceived as ordinary by the inhabitants.

  • Key Characteristics: Heroes often feel out-of-place or possess unconventional traits.

Examples of Ordinary Worlds:

  • The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: Dorothy in Kansas.

  • The Hobbit: Bilbo Baggins in Hobbiton.

  • Star Wars: Luke Skywalker on Tatooine.

  • The Lion King: Simba at Pride Rock.

THE CALL TO ADVENTURE

  • Explanation: Heroes are called to leave the ordinary world to embark on their quest.

  • Reluctance: Initially, heroes may resist leaving their familiar life, but ultimately must embrace their destiny.

  • Catalysts for Adventure:

    • Discovery of a mystic object.

    • Awareness of danger to their world.

    • Accidental occurrences that lead them into the adventure.

  • Campbell's Insight: “A blunder—the merest chance—reveals an unsuspected world.”

  • New World Description:

    • Campbell describes it as a “fateful region of both treasure and danger” which includes diverse realms like forests, kingdoms, secret islands, and more.

  • Examples of Calls:

    • The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: The tornado transports Dorothy.

    • The Hobbit: Arrival of Gandalf the wizard.

    • Star Wars: R2D2’s cryptic message initiates the journey.

REFUSAL OF THE QUEST

  • Overview: Heroes face the option to accept or deny their quest, with implications on the narrative.

  • Consequences of Refusal:

    • Often leads to disaster either for the hero or others around them.

    • Those who refuse tend to require rescuing or may become antagonistic characters.

  • Example: King Minos refuses to sacrifice the bull gifted by Poseidon, resulting in chaos, including the birth of the Minotaur.

  • Case Studies of Refusal:

    • Star Wars: Luke initially refuses to engage with his destiny until tragedy strikes.

    • The Lion King: Simba’s denial to return to Pride Rock.

    • Groundhog Day: Demonstrates negative cycles resulting from refusing the call.

ACCEPTING THE CALL

  • Description: Upon acceptance, the journey formally begins.

ENTERING THE UNKNOWN

  • Definition: Heroes venture into uncharted territories filled with supernatural elements and unique challenges.

  • Lessons: Adventurers must learn the new world’s rules, which test their endurance and strength.

  • Examples of Entering the Unknown:

    • The Wizard of Oz: Dorothy learns the rules of Oz.

    • The Matrix: Neo confronts the realities of the digital environment.

SUPERNATURAL AID

  • Definition: Assistance often comes from characters who have mastery over the laws of the new world.

  • Types of Assistance: Can be wisdom, an object of power, or crucial guidance.

  • Campbell's View: