What are the three main stages of the hero’s journey? This question has intrigued storytellers and scholars for centuries, as it encapsulates the fundamental structure of many epic tales. The hero’s journey, also known as the monomyth, was first outlined by Joseph Campbell in his seminal work “The Hero with a Thousand Faces.” This journey typically consists of three main stages: the call to adventure, the journey itself, and the return home.
The first stage, the call to adventure, marks the beginning of the hero’s journey. In this stage, the hero is introduced to a world that is different from their own, often characterized by a sense of ordinary life. The call to adventure can come in various forms, such as a dream, a prophecy, or a challenge from a mentor. This stage is characterized by the hero’s initial reluctance to leave their familiar surroundings and face the unknown.
The second stage, the journey itself, is where the hero embarks on a quest to overcome various obstacles and face trials. This stage is often the longest and most challenging part of the hero’s journey. The hero encounters allies and enemies, learns new skills, and grows both personally and spiritually. The journey is filled with challenges that test the hero’s strength, courage, and determination. It is during this stage that the hero begins to transform from an ordinary person into a hero.
The final stage, the return home, is where the hero brings back the treasure or lesson they have gained from their journey. This stage is often marked by a celebration of the hero’s triumphs and the recognition of their growth. However, the hero must also face the challenge of reintegrating into their ordinary life, now changed by their experiences. The hero must adapt to their new role and share the wisdom and knowledge they have acquired with others. This stage is critical to the hero’s journey, as it demonstrates the hero’s ability to apply their newfound wisdom to the world around them.
In conclusion, the three main stages of the hero’s journey—call to adventure, the journey itself, and the return home—provide a framework for understanding the structure of many epic tales. This journey not only serves as a guide for storytelling but also reflects the human experience of growth, transformation, and the pursuit of meaning. By exploring these stages, we can appreciate the depth and complexity of the stories that have captivated us for generations.
