Joseph Campbell: The Hero’s Journey Flashcard Notes

Stage 1: The Call to Adventure

The Call to Adventure offers the opportunity to face the unknown and gain something of value internal or external voices telling us to try something

Stage 2: Crossing the Threshold

Crossing the Threshold the “jumping off point” for the adventure (moving from the known to the unknown world) “threshold guardian” (someone who encourages or discourages the journey)

Stage 3: Challenges and Temptations

Challenges & Temptations in the unknown world, a series of challenges and temptations (physical or mental) “helpers” / “mentors” guide you or give advice

Stage 4: The Abyss

The Abyss the “low point” or… the greatest challenge of the journey (the BIG moment!) hero must usually face his or her biggest fears alone

Stage 5: Transformation

Transformation a moment of death and rebirth the person is now changed in some way (physically or mentally)

Stage 6: Revelation

Revelation hero experiences an “epiphany” (the lightbulb moment) “I finally realize…” a change in the way he or she sees life and its meaning

Stage 7: Atonement

Atonement accepting the new self (the imbalance has been corrected) “atonement” = at one “boons” (gifts)

Stage 8: The Return

The Return the return to everyday life and contributing to it with the new vision (sharing the lessons with others) “I’m back!”