The Heros Journey, The Stages Explained

By Kevin Edwards


Scripting for a hero can be a challenging task for most writers. However, Joseph Campbell has simplified it for writers into 12 stages. He has borrowed his idea from the works of Christopher Vogler by an almost similar name. This movie is ranked among the best in its category. The Heros Journey points at stages that a successful hero must go through. Here is a brief look at the hero character in a script.

All heroes begin the journey as ordinary folks. At the start, nothing is special about these heroes. This makes it easier for people to identify with their daily struggles and pleasures. This is a trick that shows that the hero comes from an ordinary beginning. It will therefore be easier to relate to his triumphs.

Call to Adventure points at a stage where there is need for the potential hero to act. It happens because of an extraordinary incidence in his life and that of people around him. The people face such challenges as injuries or safety threat to the people who are important in their life. Though not all situations involve guns, it will trigger the need for the star to ditch his comfort zone. Most heroes show resistance to the call at the beginning.

The hero then encounters a mentor who trains him on vital skills that will help him face the challenge ahead. These skills are rare and will define his performance once he is facing the ultimate challenge. The doubts that used to slow him down will be eliminated. The mentor trains him on very specific skills that will make him courageous and confident to face the challenge ahead.

Crossing the Threshold. This is a stage where there is enough pressure for the hero to answer to the call. The crossing happens voluntarily or he is forced. This is the point he will take on risks and engage in tasks that were previously difficult. He also shows the commitment to undertake the tasks that previously seemed impossible.

Tests, enemies and allies refer to a moment of confrontation. There are different challenges that have to be overcome. The obstacles could be spiritual, emotional or physical. Any whichever way, the obstacles stop our hero from progressing. The process of finding allies and overcoming them shows that this hero has what it takes. It presents a chance to test his strength and character.

Approaching the Innermost Cave. This is the utmost point of preparing for battle. There are obstacles to be overcome at a specific point. A hero must make very specific preparations. This includes facing his doubts and rescuing people whose salvation depends on his victory. There are people waiting to see whether he will make it or not. The suspense and wait becomes a source of tension as the movie comes to a climax.

Time for war has come and your hero must show his mettle. All the courage and concentration are required. Victory will keep him alive while defeat marks his death. The hero must cease the sword to declare victory. He then makes the brief return journey that marks his resurrection. The script ends with a hero returning to normal life and fading into ordinary humanity.




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