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 is a stage where the star faces a daunting task of defending something he is passionate about or people close to his life. The people who have to be defended are usually injured or facing injustice from perceived powers. It is their pain that wakes him from his comfort zone. This comes with a lot of resistance.

The hero meets a mentor who will eliminate the doubts that are larking in his life. The hero also reinforces skills that will be required to tackle the challenge that lies ahead. From the mentor, he will receive training or an object that will define the fat of his journey. All the doubts that made him to slow down will be eliminated. The mentor gives him the courage and confidence to face life.

Crossing the Threshold occurs when a star moves on to take up his call or task. The act to take on the call may come from compulsion or voluntarily. Such a hero finds himself doing something he has never done in his life. This is a point that signifies the commitment to pursue his calling and take on what life throws his way.

Tests, Enemies and Allies. Heroes enter into confrontation with the issues that will define their status. The challenge is usually spiritual, social, emotional, physical or such manifestations. It is these challenges that hold him back. He can only succeed by identifying his allies and isolating his enemies. This confrontation is about to define his areas of strength and weakness. It also reveals his true 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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