The Hero's Journey

Overview

• Concept originated from Joseph Campbell.
• The Hero's Journey is a universal narrative present in all human stories.
• Focuses on self-discovery and transformation.
• Metaphor for inner and outer adventures.

Stages of the Hero's Journey

Typically consists of 12 steps:

1. The Ordinary World

• The starting point where the hero is an unfulfilled version of himself.
• Represents societal expectations and the status quo.
• Example: Luke Skywalker as a bored farm boy in Star Wars.

2. Call to Adventure

• Destiny summons the hero, presenting opportunities for change.
• Involves confronting fears and the unknown.
• Example: Neo receiving the message to follow the White Rabbit in The Matrix.
• Most people decline this call, feeling stagnant.

3. Refusal of the Call

• The hero often hesitates due to fears and insecurities.
• Example: Neo initially refusing Morpheus' challenge.
• Avoiding issues leads to regret and 'what could have been'.

4. Meeting with the Mentor

• The hero receives guidance and wisdom from a mentor.
• Examples: Morpheus for Neo, Obi-Wan for Luke, Gandalf for Frodo.
• Mentors can also be influential figures in the hero's life, even if not met personally.

5. Crossing the First Threshold

• Transition from the ordinary world to the special world.
• Represents a commitment to the adventure of self-discovery.
• Example: Neo taking the red pill in The Matrix.

6. Tests, Allies, and Enemies

• The hero faces challenges and learns the rules of the new world.
• This stage tests the hero’s resilience and prepares for future ordeals.
• Example: Morpheus training Neo.

7. Approach to the Innermost Cave

• Represents the hero confronting deep fears or inner conflicts.
• Example: The hero often faces a significant danger or a moral dilemma.

8. The Ordeal

• The most significant challenge where the hero experiences a crisis.
• Often symbolizes a metaphorical death and rebirth.
• Example: Neo confronting the ultimate threat.

9. The Reward

• After overcoming the ordeal, the hero receives a reward.
• Can be knowledge, love, or inner peace.
• Example: Neo re-entering the Matrix to save Morpheus.

10. The Road Back

• The hero decides to return to the ordinary world, facing remaining dangers.
• Example: Neo facing Agent Smith.

11. Resurrection

• The final confrontation with death and darkness.
• Stakes are at their highest; the hero emerges transformed.
• Example: Neo's realization of his true power.

12. Return with the Elixir

• The transformed hero returns with knowledge or gifts to share.
• Important for implementing change in daily life.
• Represents growth and healing.

Conclusion

• The Hero's Journey is cyclical and ongoing, representing continuous personal transformation.
• Emphasizes the importance of facing fears and embracing change.
• Encourages acceptance of the call to adventure.

Recommended Resources

• "A Hero With A Thousand Faces" by Joseph Campbell (available on Audible).
• Other recommended audiobooks:
  • The 50th Law by Robert Greene
  • Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism

Closing

• Reminder to like, share, and subscribe for more content.