The Hero's Journey: Elements of Plot and Storytelling 👑
🖊️ Welcome to this blog! Today, we’ll be delving into the complex art of storytelling and the elements that constitute it- specifically, the Hero’s Journey. As humans, we love listening to stories of triumph, adventure and growth. No matter the culture, stories have been passed down for generations for their ability to transport us to different worlds and inspire us. This brings us to the Hero’s Journey- a concept that outlines the structure of a hero’s transformational journey, and the steps they take to become… well, a hero!
The Ordinary World 🌍
As the saying goes, every hero needs an origin story. Our story begins in the Ordinary World - where our hero lives their mundane life, unaware that an adventure lies ahead. In this stage, the audience is introduced to the protagonist’s world, and are given a glimpse of their personality, aspirations or struggles. This stage creates the foundation for the hero’s journey by establishing the status quo- i.e., the norms of their everyday life.
*💡 Tip: This world may seem boring, but it’s crucial to make this stage engaging! Make the audience care about the protagonist’s plight, and make them invested in their journey.
The Call to Adventure 📯
Just when our hero has settled into their ordinary world, they are presented with a Call to Adventure. This is a catalyst- an event or situation that disrupts their mundane life, and propels them towards the unknown. The hero may or may not initially accept the call, but ultimately they are compelled to accept.
*💡 Tip: Make the call to adventure memorable and engaging! This stage can make or break the story- so make it count!
Refusal of the Call ❌
Sometimes, the hero may hesitate to embark on the journey. This is known as Refusal of the Call- a natural response to the fear of the unknown. However, refusing the call comes with consequences- the hero may feel incomplete or unsettled.
*💡 Tip: This stage can be an opportunity to explore the character’s flaws or deeper motivations.
Mentorship 👤
As the hero begins their journey, they may encounter a Mentor- a character who provides guidance, support and training. Mentors play a crucial role in aiding the hero by sharing their wisdom, resources or experience.
*💡 Tip: Mentors need to be well-rounded and complex characters- avoid simply using them as a plot device.
Trials 🔥
This is where things get difficult for our hero. Trials are obstacles that the protagonist must face in order to progress on their journey. These can be physical or emotional challenges that test the hero’s limits and force them to adapt.
*💡 Tip: Make each trial unique, and make sure the stakes are high! This is where the audience should be on the edge of their seats.
The Abyss 🌌
The Abyss is the point where the hero hits rock-bottom. This is the lowest point in the story, where all seems lost and hopeless. This stage is important, as it serves as the catalyst for the hero’s growth and transformation.
*💡 Tip: This is where the stakes need to be the highest, and the darkest fears must be confronted.
Transformation 🌟
The transformation stage is where the hero is reborn- more powerful, wiser and courageous than before. This stage is marked by the hero overcoming their flaws and embracing their true potential.
*💡 Tip: Make the transformation meaningful and earned- don’t make it feel too easy or contrived.
The Return Home 🏠
After the transformation, the hero must return home- as a changed person. This is where the hero applies their newfound skills and wisdom to the Ordinary World, resolving the conflict they originally set out to solve.
*💡 Tip: Don’t let the hero return unchanged- the transformation should be reflected in their actions and character.
