THE HERO’S JOURNEY What defines a hero?
The Call to Adventure Messenger(s) that either tell the hero of his journey or cause the situation Deed that hero chooses to perform (Quest) Adventure hero is thrown into or tricked into
Guidance Advisor (with more wisdom than the hero) Talisman (symbolic item that gives power)
Companions Emotional / Primitive friends (simple but loyal) Followers
Crossing the Threshold Known world the hero has left Unknown world the hero is entering
Initiation (Challenges) Physical Challenge(s) Spiritual or Emotional Challenge(s) Brother Battle Abduction Sea Journey
The Belly of the Whale Greatest fear or evil Inner darkness or personal failing or self doubt
Meeting with the “Goddess” Supernatural female (can be male, but is not the advisor) Offering of wisdom Offering of powerful or supernatural aid
Sacred “Marriage” Connection to another character Motivation to continue
Ritual Death or Dismemberment Life given up: either a real life or an important part of the hero’s life
Atonement with Father Hero becomes “at one” with new responsibility or becomes a father figure