The Hero's Journey

This is the hero's normal world, where life is status quo, problems/conflicts don't trouble the hero, and he/she lives among mortals/non-supernatural beings.

• Refusal of the Call

• The Resurrection

• The Ordinary World

• Meeting with the Mentor

A typical character, action, or situation that seems to represent universal patterns of human nature. Also known as "universal symbol," may be a character, a theme, a symbol, or even a setting.

• Symbolism

• Literary Archetype

• Plot Development

• Characterization

Someone or something presents the hero with a problem, challenge, or an adventure. This can be an event or a person.

• Meeting with the Mentor

• The Call to Adventure

• The Ordeal

• Return with the Elixir /Ultimate Boon

The hero is reluctant or frightened to accept the call and begin the journey. However, the hero feels the fear of the unknown and tries to turn away from the adventure briefly. Alternatively, another character may express the uncertainty and danger ahead.

• Refusal of the Call

• The Road Back

• The Ordinary World

• Crossing the Threshold

The hero comes across a veteran traveler of the worlds or a wise man or woman who gives him or her training, equipment, weapons, or advice that will help on the journey.

• The Shadow

• The Shapeshifter

• The Resurrection

• Meeting with the Mentor

They provide laughter, help the audience realize common bonds, and point out mistakes (folly) and hypocrisy (double standards). But, most importantly, they bring about change and transformation.

• The Shadow

• The Trickster

• The Mentor

• An Enemy

A "point of no return" is crossed. The hero is committing to the journey. The hero leaves their ordinary world and enters into an unfamiliar/new world. The hero summons the courage to take the next important step.

• The Road Back

• Approaching the Inmost Cave

• The Ordeal

• Crossing the Threshold

The hero faces tests/conflicts and sorts out allegiances in the Special World. The hero picks up friends and enemies along the way.

• Tests, Allies, and Enemies

• The Call to Adventure

• The Road Back

• Return with the Elixir / Ultimate Boon

It can be an actual location. The Hero prepares for the major challenge in the Special World. Next, the Hero must regroup and focus, preparing for the next challenge. Finally, the Hero prepares for a hard fight or to defeat their biggest fear or personal challenge. This stage escalates the tension in the story.

• Tests, Allies, and Enemies

• The Ordeal

• Call to adventure

• Meeting with the Mentor

Near the middle of the story, this is the biggest life-or-death crisis. The hero confronts death or faces his or her greatest fear.

• The Ordeal

• Crossing the Threshold

• The Ordinary World

• The Final Reward