The Hero with a Thousand Faces

Hero’s Journey -Monomyth A Hero’s journey is similar to the rite of passage in many cultures. A metaphor of the growing process

Basic Requirements of the Journey... separation from the comfortable, known world. AND

initiation into a new level of awareness, skill, responsibility, and then a return home.

1st Each stage must be passed successfully if the initiate (person on the quest) is to become a hero.

Characteristics of a Hero The hero is usually male He is usually of low birth or is unaware of his birthright

Characteristics Continued… His parents (mainly the father) are dead, absent, or uncaring He must be judged by the things he does (Nobility of Purpose)

Call Descent Abyss Atonement Return Threshold Test & Ordeals Stages of the Journey Call Descent Abyss Atonement Return Threshold Test & Ordeals Transformation Boon

The opportunity to face the unknown and gain something of physical or spiritual value. The Call

Selection for Quest Town leaders select someone to face danger May begin because of a mistake Told to go on quest by a god or force

Types of Calls He may go willingly or be forced to go. Imbalance or Injustice A Realization that society is being denied something Save honor

Did You Know That Refusing the call rarely happens, but when it does the initiate gives up the ability to take positive action. He or she rejects the need to grow and ends up living a meaningless life.

The point of the adventure when the initiate leaves the known for the unknown. At this point the initiate encounters a helper or guide. The Threshold

The Descent A voyage into uncharted territory. The journey takes the initiate farther from what he/she knows and places him/her more at risk.

Tests and Ordeals While on the quest, the initiate is challenged both physically and mentally to his limits.

Into the Abyss Here the initiate faces ultimate danger or challenge. This is usually done alone.

In the Abyss stage, the initiate faces their greatest fear and must decide to give themselves totally over to the quest.

Failure at the Abyss stage usually happens because the initiate has not grown enough to overcome some character flaw. The remainder of his life is usually very bitter.

The moment of death and rebirth Revelation Discovery Insight The Transformation

The Atonement The initiate is now a new person. He/she is now a HERO!

The Boon Stronger Richer Leader Fighter Enlightened Spiritually A gift or blessing is given to the hero based on his new skill and awareness

The Return Return to everyday life (often very difficult) Renew Community Establish a Nation Create Great Order Share Wealth

With the return home, a circle is completed!

The End