journey
THE HEROine's
Author
and mythologist Joseph Campbell’s great contribution to literature is his concept that there is a universal story found within all the great myths of humanity. He called this “The Hero’s Journey”. This has since become the template for cinema, television and all epic storytelling.
In his book “Hero of a Thousand Faces”, Campbell analyses the journey of the hero and breaks it down into many different stages. The three main stages that we will focus on are as follows: the Call, the Initiation and the Return.
The first stage is when the ordinary person receives “the call”. Although he may be reasonably content with his life, there is a possibility for more. The hero refuses the call at first as he is reluctant to leave the familiar behind and venture into the unknown. In modern times this “call” might be having a dream about pursuing something, being fired from a job, the ending of a relationship, a move or new opportunity. The Call will herald a change from the familiar.
The Call is persistent and finally the hero answers the call for change and the “initiation” phase begins. This period is fraught with challenges and often an increase in personal problems. The hero must persist in trying to overcome these trials and as a result must shed parts of his persona and face the real truth of who he is. At this point in the journey the hero is provided with spiritual assistance. This assistance provides him with protection, support and opportunities that allow him to finally succeed. The hero now passes the tests and achieves breakthroughs of life-changing importance. He emerges with skills, knowledge and new abilities previously unimaginable. His whole life has changed.
02 THE
Initiation
01 THE
Call
03 THE
Return
In the final phase of the journey, “the return”, the hero must return to ordinary life but with all the gifts of his great transformation. He will now function as a master, a sage. His new mission is to share his wisdom and heal the suffering of others.
A wonderful documentary on this topic “FINDING JOE” is availble on the web.
REAL LIFE STORIES
The following true stories share the personal journey’s taken by some ordinary people who agreed to follow “the call”.
Feel free to contact us if you wish to share your hero/heroine’s journey to inspire others.
