The Journey of the Hero

Historical Background Theory based on the non-fiction book written by Joseph Campbell entitled The Hero with a Thousand Faces (1949) Theory = important myths from around the world share the same fundamental structure Campbell used works of early 20th century theorists to develop his model of the hero Borrowed term of “monomyth” from James Joyce

Basic Journey Hero begins in ordinary world Receives a call to enter the unusual world Hero faces a choice If chooses to answer call – will face trials Hero (hopefully) survives severe challenges If survives, achieves great gift, or “boon” Hero may choose to return to ordinary world May face more challenges

Three Main Stages Departure or Separation Initiation Return