The cycle present in mythology as well as popular culture today
Archetype : the original pattern or model from which all things of the same kind are copied or on which they are based; a model or first form; prototype Pop Culture (or popular culture): cultural activities or commercial products reflecting, suited to, or aimed at the tastes of the general masses of people Status Quo : the existing state of affairs or condition Mentor : a wise and trusted counselor or teacher Terms to know:
The idea of the hero is a theme in all media – books, music, art, even video games! American author Joseph Campbell is best known for his work with the myths of the world and how they connect us. He applied the term “monomyth” to refer to the pattern that myths around the world typically follow. His basic argument is that heroes in all cultures share a pattern that is predictable and recognizable. Campbell outlined the steps taken by heroes in virtually all cultures in his book The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Joseph Campbell
Status Quo : Beginning/End of cycle Call to Adventure : hero receives a mysterious message; an invitation/challenge Meet the Mentor/Assistance : hero needs help, usually from someone older and wiser Departure : hero crosses the threshold from his normal, safe home and enters the special world and adventure The Heroic Archetype
Trials : hero solves a riddle, slays a monster, escapes from a trap, etc. Helpers/Approach : the point where the hero faces their biggest ordeal—the hero’s worst fear Crisis : the hero’s darkest hour where he faces death and possibly even dies in order to be reborn Treasure : as a result the hero claims some treasure, special recognition, or power
Result : this can vary in different stories from conquering fear to barely escaping the special world Return : hero returns to ordinary world New Life : hero has grown and changed from the journey and therefore has outgrown his old life Resolution : all of the tangled plot-lines get sorted out