How to Write Hero’s Journey: A Comprehensive Guide
The Hero’s Journey, also known as the Monomyth, is a narrative structure that has been used in storytelling for centuries. This classic formula, first outlined by Joseph Campbell in his book “The Hero with a Thousand Faces,” has been adapted and applied to countless stories across various genres. Whether you are writing a novel, a short story, or a screenplay, understanding how to write a Hero’s Journey can help you create a compelling and engaging narrative. In this article, we will explore the key stages of the Hero’s Journey and provide practical tips on how to incorporate them into your writing.
1. Introduction to the Hero’s Journey
The Hero’s Journey is a narrative structure that consists of 17 stages, divided into three main parts: Departure, Initiation, and Return. Each stage plays a crucial role in the development of the hero and the story. By understanding these stages, you can create a well-rounded and dynamic character who embarks on a transformative journey.
2. The Stages of the Hero’s Journey
2.1. Departure
The Departure stage is where the hero’s ordinary world is introduced. This is the world the hero is familiar with, and it often represents a state of balance or equilibrium. The hero is typically a “normal” person with everyday problems and challenges. The Departure stage is characterized by the following stages:
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2.1.1. Call to Adventure
The hero receives a call to adventure, which is often a challenge or a problem that needs to be addressed. This call can come from an external source, such as a mentor or a friend, or from an internal source, such as a desire for change or self-discovery.
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2.1.2. Refusal of the Call
The hero initially refuses the call to adventure, either out of fear, hesitation, or a sense of duty. This refusal can be temporary or permanent, but it serves to establish the hero’s character and their initial state of being.
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2.1.3. Meeting the Mentor
The hero meets a mentor who provides guidance, advice, or training to help them prepare for the journey ahead. The mentor can be a character, a force of nature, or even an internal voice.
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2.1.4. Crossing the First Threshold
The hero crosses the threshold into the special world, leaving their ordinary world behind. This stage marks the beginning of the hero’s transformation and the start of their adventure.
2.2. Initiation
The Initiation stage is where the hero faces trials, challenges, and obstacles. This stage is characterized by the following stages:
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2.2.1. Tests, Allies, and Enemies
The hero encounters various tests, allies, and enemies in the special world. These encounters help the hero grow and develop their skills, as well as their understanding of the world around them.
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2.2.2. Approach to the Inmost Cave
The hero approaches the climax of the story, where they must face their greatest challenge or fear.
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2.2.3. The Ordeal
The hero faces the climax of the story, where they must overcome their greatest challenge or fear. This stage often involves a physical, emotional, or psychological transformation.
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2.2.4. Reward
The hero receives a reward for their success, which can be a new skill, knowledge, or power.
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2.2.5. The Road Back
The hero begins their journey back to their ordinary world, carrying the knowledge and power gained from their experiences.
2.3. Return
The Return stage is where the hero returns to their ordinary world, having transformed and changed as a result of their journey. This stage is characterized by the following stages:
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2.3.1. The Resurrection
The hero is reborn or transformed, having overcome their greatest challenge and emerging stronger.
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2.3.2. Return with the Elixir
The hero returns to their ordinary world with the knowledge, power, or elixir (solution) they have gained from their journey.
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2.3.3. Master of Two Worlds
The hero integrates their new knowledge and power into their ordinary world, becoming a leader or mentor to others.
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2.3.4. Freedom to Live
The hero lives a fulfilling life, having completed their journey and achieved their goals.
3. Tips for Writing the Hero’s Journey
To effectively write the Hero’s Journey, consider the following tips:
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3.1. Develop a Compelling Character
Create a well-rounded and relatable hero who readers can connect with. Establish the hero’s strengths, weaknesses, and motivations early on.
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3.2. Use the Stages as a Framework
While it’s important to be flexible with the Hero’s Journey, use the stages as a framework to guide your storytelling. This will help you create a cohesive and engaging narrative.
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3.3. Incorporate Conflict and Change
Conflict and change are essential to the Hero’s Journey. Use these elements to drive the story forward and create tension.
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3.4. Focus on the Hero’s Growth
The Hero’s Journey is about transformation. Ensure that your hero grows and changes throughout the story, both internally and externally.
In conclusion, the Hero’s Journey is a powerful narrative structure that can be used to create compelling and engaging stories. By understanding the stages of the Hero’s Journey and incorporating them into your writing, you can create a transformative and memorable tale for your readers.
