Elements of The Journey

The elements of the hero's journey are universal and have withstood the tests of time. Every story regarding a hero can be divided into three acts: the departure, the descent, and the return. Each act contains multiple elements that move the hero through his journey. The story tells of a "hero" taken out of his ordinary world where they receive the call to adventure. They are reluctant at first or refuse the call, but are encouraged by a mentor to cross the first threshold and enter the special world. There they encounter tests, allies, and enemies. When the hero approaches the inmost part of the cave, crossing a second threshold they endure the ordeal. Following the ordeal, the hero takes possession of his reward and returns home. On the road back, he crosses the third threshold, experiencing a resurrection and is transformed by the experience. Finally, the hero returns home with the treasure to benefit the ordinary world.

Due to the timeless structure of the story, along with its prevalence in society, we are all too familiar with how the story goes. As such, I somewhat feel that it is a part of me (in some way, shape, or form) because I spent many years posted up on the couch watching movies and tv in addition to playing numerous video games in which I played the role of the hero.

While the story of the hero has not changed over time, the hero on the other hand has. The hero of today usually possesses some kind of supernatural power that gives him an advantage over everyone else. When I think of the classical image of the hero, I always pictured him as an ordinary person who has no special powers but is able to overcome obstacles due to his wisdom not his brute strength. Additionally, I feel that because we see this "hero journey" so much, that somehow the hero is losing its valor.


Discussion Questions:

1. If you could change the structure of the story, what would you do and why?

2. How has the persona of the hero has evolved over time?

3. Do you think that the hero's journey should always be successful? Why?