Character Archetypes
The "bad guy." Typically described as mean or evil, out to destroy the world in some way.
Who is Ravana?
This is when the hero begins to face change. Something, either internal or external, shakes up the hero's everyday life/status quo.
What is the Call to Action?
This stage occurs when the hero is reluctant, feeling the fear of the unknown. He or she turns away, however briefly, from the journey ahead.
What is the Refusal of the Call?
This eldest son is driven by a purpose higher than desire to be king and is destined to restore order to the universe. He is immediately recognizable by his blue skin.
Who is Rama?
The principal that a person's actions impact his or her future destiny or fate. "What goes around comes around."
What is Karma?
The "sidekick" or best friend. They've always got the hero's back!
Who is Lakshman?
This is when the hero meets someone who provides him or her with training, wisdom, and often some type of weapon.
What is Meeting with the Mentor?
This stage usually occurs about 3/4 of the way through the story. The hero leaves the special world to bring home the treasure.
What is the Road Back?
Blessed and cursed with divine beauty, her kidnapping drives her husband and his friends into battle to save her (and the universe).
Who is Sita?
A very typical example of something, usually referring to a character, plot, or object.
What is an archetype?
The saying that says, "what goes around, comes around"
What is karma?
The hero faces his or her biggest challenge yet. He or she faces their worst fear during this stage.
What is The Ordeal?
The hero commits to leaving the ordinary world.
What is Crossing the Threshold?
He's got way too many heads and managed to have his wish granted: he can't be defeated by gods or demons.
Who is Ravana?
A god in human form.
What is an Avatar?
Typically older and wise
Who is a sage?
The hero is tested during this stage. He or she figures out who is on their side, and who isn't.
What is Tests, Allie, and Enemies?
The hero gets the treasure! Often times there is still a real risk of losing it again though.
What is The Reward?
He's a superstrong flying monkey devoted to Rama.
Who is Hanuman?
The name of the guardian of the forest.
Who is Jatayu (the eagle)?
A way around the rules that is sneaky and clever.
What is a loophole?
This stage is when the hero is almost home, but faces one last challenge. The hero must make one last sacrifice.
What is the Resurrection?
The hero and allies prepare for their challenge.
What is The Approach?
A forest monk and sage who gifts Rama with a weapon made for the god Vishnu.
Who is Agastya?
The principle that a person has a moral duty to behave properly.
What is dharma?