1. In Life & Literature
The Hero’s Journey

2. Why learn about the Hero’s journey?
The hero’s journey arises in classical mythology.
It isn’t just a pattern from myth.
ALL OF US experience this pattern of life and the growth/experiences it provides.
So…Why study the hero’s journey?
It is a pattern of human experience.
There is a journey to be found in nearly every challenge we face in life.
We can better understand our own experiences and patterns.

3. The Journey in Poetry 1) What is the story of the poem?
2) What kind of journey are they on?
-Emotional/mental, physical, or spiritual?
-How do you know (highlight your proof)?
3) What part of the journey are they on (highlight and label the proof in the poem)?
4) Find one SIGNPOST in your poem & explain what it helps you understand about the poem.
5) Choose one strong moment of imagery in the poem as it relates to the journey, and explain it.
You may write your answers in the open spaces on the poetry handout.

4. The Hero’s Journey… A Pattern

5. The Cycle Separation (from the known) Initiation and Transformation
The Return (to the known world)

8. Separation The Call The Threshold
Invites the initiate into the adventure
Gain of something of physical or spiritual value
The Threshold
Jumping off point
Leaves the known world to the unknown
Threshold guardians
Helpers or mentors/guides

10. The Initiation The Challenges Into the Abyss
Challenges can be internal or external
More and more at risk, emotionally & physically
Each success builds character, skill, confidence
Challenges get more difficult & force growth
Into the Abyss
The greatest challenge
Character surrenders to the quest

11. Initiation Continued…
Transformation & Revelation
Conquers fears= transformation complete
Fear must die to become courage
Ignorance must die to become enlightenment
Dependency & Irresponsibility die to become independence & responsibility
Revelation: a sudden dramatic change in the way one thinks or views life; a new self
The Atonement
Oneness with his new self
Fully reborn, in harmony with the world
New gift, skill, or awareness

13. The Return Return to everyday life Begin to contribute to society
Sometimes rejected by society
Sometimes disillusioned by world around him/her