The Hero's Journey

Confronting the Father

In this step the person must confront whatever holds the ultimate power in his or her life. In many myths and stories this is the father, or a father figure who has life and death power. Although this step is most frequently symbolized by an encounter with a male person or god, it does not have to be a male, just someone or thing with incredible power.

The Call to Adventure

Usually there is a discovery, some event, or some danger that starts them on the heroic path. Heroes find a magic object or discover their world is in danger. In some cases, heroes happen upon their quest by accident.

Road of Trials

A series of tests, tasks, or ordeals that the person must undergo to begin the transformation. Often the person fails one or more of these tests, which often occur in threes. The heroes progress through this series of tests, a set of obstacles that make them stronger, preparing them for their final showdown.

The Magic Flight

After the heroes complete the Supreme Ordeal and have the reward firmly in hand, all that is left is for them is to return home. Just because the majority of the adventure has passed doesn't mean that the return journey will be smooth sailing. There are still lesser homebound obstacles to overcome. At some point the hero must often escape with the reward. This can sometimes take the form of a chase or battle.

Entering the Unknown

As they embark on their journey, the heroes enter a world they have never experienced before. It might be filled with supernatural creatures, breathtaking sights, and the constant threat of death. Unlike the heroes' home, this outside world has its own rules, and they quickly learn to respect these rules as their endurance, strength, and courage are tested time and time again.

Supreme Ordeal

At long last they reach the Supreme Ordeal, the obstacle they have journeyed so far to overcome. All the heroes' training and toil comes into play now. The journey has hardened them, and it's time for them to show their prowess. Once this obstacle is overcome, the tension will be relieved. The worst has passed, and the quest, while not officially over, has succeeded.

Allies/Helpers

Every hero needs a helper, much like every superhero needs a sidekick. Without the assistance of their companions and helpers along the way, most heroes would fail miserably.

Meeting the Mentor

Hero encounters someone who gives advice and help with journey.

The Ordinary World

Heroes exist in a world that is considered ordinary or uneventful by those who live there. Often people in the ordinary world consider the heroes odd. They possess some ability or characteristic that makes them feel out-of-place.

Master of Two Worlds/Restoring the World

Success on the heroes' quest is life-changing, for them and often for many others. By achieving victory, they have changed or preserved their original world. Often they return with an object or personal ability that allows them to save their world. The heroes have also grown in spirit and strength. They have proved themselves worthy for marriage, kingship, or queenship. Their success in the supernatural worlds allows them to return and be heroes in their own world.