The Hero’s Journey

1. The Hero’s Journey The Monomyth Stage Two: The Initiation

2. The Hero’s Journey “A hero ventures forth from the world of the common day and into a region of supernatural wonder; fabulous forces are there encountered and a decisive victory is won; the hero comes back from the mysterious adventure with the power to bestow boons on his fellow man.” Joseph Campbell The Hero with a Thousand Faces

3. The Life of the Hero in Three Stages

4. Stage One: Separation The first stage of the hero’s life; this chronicles the unusual circumstances of his birth. This is when he begins his journey after receiving a signal that great things are in store for him. If he is lucky, he will have a mentor and special gifts that will help him cross the threshold into the greater world beyond.

5. Stage Two: Initiation The second stage of the hero’s journey crosses into the unknown. The voyage can be outward into the physical unknown or inward to a psychological unknown. This stage of the adventure puts the hero more and more at risk, both emotionally and physically.

6. A. The Road of Trials • A series of tests, tasks or ordeals the hero must complete to begin the transformation • Initial tests often the easiest of the trials • Tests often occur in threes, may include a journey through the “sacred grove” or a battle with a dragon • Hero sometimes fails one or more of the initial tests

7. B. The Meeting with the Goddess • Hero meets the one who inspires him to be his best • Often referred to as the “sacred marriage”, this meeting causes the hero to commit his life to his quest • However, does not have to be a woman; it is an unconditional, spiritual love

8. C. The Temptress • This character tries to seduce the hero away from his path or distract him from his destiny • Temptations are most often physical or material temptations, a conflict between physical pleasure and spiritual ideals • Does not have to be a woman

9. D. The Belly of the Whale • The Belly of the Whale, or the Abyss, is the greatest challenge of the journey • Hero must face his greatest fear alone and resolve it • Can be a physical descent into the Underworld or a journey into the hero’s own soul • Hero is given the clue to what he must do to save not only the world but also himself

10. E. Atonement • After conquering the Abyss, there is a confrontation and initiation with a male figure, sometimes the hero’s father • The confrontation results in the hero’s letting go of the last elements of childhood: youth, ignorance, worldliness, or selfishness • He becomes “at one” with his new role

11. F. Apotheosis • Part of the transformation of atonement is often a revelation, a sudden, dramatic change in the way the hero thinks or views life • He has incorporated the changes of his journey and is “reborn” as a hero • He is ready to dedicate his life to the greater good

12. G. Ultimate Boon • Boon is the achievement of the goal of his journey • Hero discovers his gift, usually a result of his new level of skill and awareness • Hero is now ready to use his boon to contribute to society, save the kingdom, etc.

13. H. Unhealable Wound • The hero may suffer a wound that will never heal. This may occur in his main fight, but could happen anywhere in the story/journey. • The wound may be emotional or psychological.