The Heroic Journey

Stages of the Heroic Journey . . . The Call: The moment the hero is called on a quest.

Stages of the Heroic Journey . . . The Allies: Individuals who assist the hero during the journey. They may be family members, friends, guides, animals, or even gods.

The Preparation- The hero needs to prepare for the journey. This might be in the form of. . . physical (training, supplies, etc.) wisdom or knowledge psychological—the hero may need to find courage to begin the adventure

Guardians of the Threshold The hero encounters obstacles which interfere or delay start of journey. The obstacles may be . . . literal (physical barriers) or non-literal (fears, doubts)

Crossing the Threshold This is where the hero actually begins his journey into the “new” or “unfamiliar”. The hero often realizes they must obtain new skills or knowledge to function on the journey.

The Road of Trials The hero faces a series of difficult experiences which test their courage, strength, intelligence, determination, etc. It may seem there is no hope or chance of the hero getting out of the dangerous situation.

The Saving Experience Just when things are at the worst for the hero, they meet someone, have a powerful experience, or receives a special gift that “saves” them allowing him/her to achieve goal of journey.

The Transformation The hero is changing, and understanding the “underworld” around him/her. The transformation is sometimes physical, mental, emotional or spiritual.

The Return Hero returns to “normal world” but now see life differently because of journey.

Sharing the Gift The hero shares the gift of experience, knowledge, and wisdom gained from journey with the community.

Application Do you see the heroic journey working in literature or movies today? Do you see the heroic journey working in peoples’ (yours?) lives today?