Exploring the Mythic Structure- Unveiling the Number of Stages in the Hero’s Journey

How many stages are there in the hero’s journey? This timeless narrative structure, popularized by Joseph Campbell in his seminal work “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” has intrigued writers, filmmakers, and psychologists for decades. The hero’s journey, also known as the monomyth, is a universal story template that outlines the stages a hero must undergo to achieve personal growth and triumph over adversity. This article will explore the traditional twelve stages of the hero’s journey, highlighting the transformative power of this narrative structure in various forms of storytelling.

The hero’s journey begins with the call to adventure. In this stage, the hero is introduced to the world and their ordinary life. They often feel a sense of dissatisfaction or a void that needs to be filled. The call to adventure can come in the form of a challenge, a mentor, or an event that disrupts the hero’s routine. The hero must then make a decision to leave their ordinary life behind and embark on a quest for transformation.

1. The Call to Adventure

The hero’s initial hesitation is known as the refusal of the call. This stage represents the hero’s fear of the unknown and the potential dangers ahead. They may feel apprehensive about leaving their familiar surroundings and the comfort of their ordinary life. However, the hero eventually overcomes their reluctance and accepts the call to adventure.

2. Refusal of the Call

The hero then crosses the first threshold, entering the special world of the adventure. This stage marks the beginning of the hero’s journey into the unknown. The hero is now in a new environment, encountering new challenges and allies. The special world is often characterized by its own set of rules and dangers, which the hero must navigate.

3. Meeting the Mentor

In the third stage, the hero meets a mentor, who provides guidance, wisdom, and assistance. The mentor can be a person, an animal, or even an object that helps the hero grow and develop. The mentor’s role is to prepare the hero for the challenges ahead and to help them understand the nature of their quest.

4. The Testing and the Approach

The hero faces various tests and trials in this stage, which serve to strengthen their character and prepare them for the ultimate challenge. These tests can be physical, emotional, or intellectual, and they often reveal the hero’s strengths and weaknesses. The hero must persevere through these trials to continue their journey.

5. The Ordeal

The hero reaches the climax of their journey in the ordeal, where they face their greatest challenge and must confront their deepest fears. This stage is often the most dangerous and intense, and it can lead to a transformation in the hero’s character. The outcome of the ordeal determines whether the hero will continue their journey or fail.

6. The Reward

After overcoming the ordeal, the hero receives a reward that can be a treasure, a gift, or a new understanding of themselves. This reward helps the hero grow and prepares them for the final stages of their journey.

7. The Road Back

The hero must now return to their ordinary world with the knowledge and power they have gained. This stage is filled with challenges as the hero must navigate the dangers of the return journey and face the resistance of those who do not understand their transformation.

8. The Resurrection

The hero reaches the climax of the return journey in the resurrection stage, where they must confront their greatest fear once more. This time, the hero has the strength and wisdom to overcome this fear and emerge victorious.

9. Return with the Elixir

The hero returns to their ordinary world with the elixir, which represents the knowledge, wisdom, and power gained during the journey. The hero shares this elixir with others, helping them grow and transform as well.

10. The Freedom to Live

The final stage of the hero’s journey is the freedom to live, where the hero integrates the lessons learned during their quest into their ordinary life. The hero has become a changed person, ready to face the challenges of the future with confidence and courage.

In conclusion, the hero’s journey consists of twelve stages that outline the transformative power of storytelling. This narrative structure has influenced countless stories across various mediums, providing a framework for personal growth and the pursuit of one’s destiny. By understanding the stages of the hero’s journey, writers and storytellers can create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences and inspire them to embark on their own adventures.