The Hero's Journey: A 12-Stage Framework

Introduction

• The Hero's Journey is a narrative framework often broken into 12 stages.
• Purpose: Analyze scripts and storytelling in a structured manner.

Stage 1: The Ordinary World

• Introduce the main character and their world.
• Present their typical behavior and the status quo.
• Hint at upcoming challenges or questions.
• Establish the context for the story.

Stage 2: Call to Adventure

• Introduce a problem or desire that propels the story.
• Creates energy and draws audience interest.
• Often accompanied by specific musical cues.

Stage 3: Refusal of the Call

• The hero initially resists the journey.
• Highlights the natural fear of the unknown.
• Variations: Some heroes are eager, while others resist.

Stage 4: Meeting the Mentor

• Introduction of a mentor character.
• Provides reassurance, tools, or knowledge.
• Absence of a mentor can create a horror story tension.

Stage 5: Crossing the Threshold

• Transition from the ordinary world to the special world.
• Signals a major turning point in the story.
• Often marked by changes in energy and music.

Stage 6: Tests, Allies, and Enemies

• Initial challenges in the new world.
• Hero identifies who can support them and who opposes them.
• Teams or alliances are often formed.

Stage 7: Approach to the Inmost Cave

• Period of getting to know allies and the environment better.
• Character relationships deepen or are tested.

Stage 8: The Ordeal

• Hero faces a major challenge or "death" experience.
• Often involves physical combat or an intense confrontation.
• Results in transformation and rebirth.

Stage 9: The Reward

• The "aftermath" of the ordeal.
• Hero reflects on their transformation.
• Often accompanied by celebration or recognition.

Stage 10: The Road Back

• Hero recommits to completing the journey.
• Often involves a pursuit or race against adversaries.
• Energy in the story increases.

Stage 11: The Resurrection

• Climax where hero undergoes final transformation.
• All questions from the story are answered.
• Hero demonstrates growth and learning.

Stage 12: Return with the Elixir

• Hero comes back to the ordinary world with newfound wisdom.
• Shares the "elixir" with others.
• Emphasizes the hero's role in serving and protecting the community.

Conclusion

• The 12-stage Hero's Journey offers a flexible yet structured approach to storytelling.
• Encourages audience engagement and emotional involvement.