Hero’s Journey Basics
What is the Hero’s Journey?
A story pattern where a character goes on an adventure, faces challenges, and returns changed.
The hero starts out in a peaceful world, before anything exciting happens.
Status Quo
This character often provides wisdom, tools, or training to the hero.
Mentor
Moana is chosen by the ocean and receives the heart of Te Fiti. What step is this?
Supernatural Aid
A story pattern where the hero goes on an adventure and returns changed.
Hero’s Journey
What is the purpose of the “Call to Adventure”?
To invite the hero to begin their quest or challenge.
The hero faces their first big test and leaves the safety of home.
Crossing the Threshold
This character stands in the hero’s way and creates conflict.
Shadow (Villain)
Dory helps Marlin throughout the ocean in Finding Nemo. What archetype is she?
Ally
A classic character type, like a hero or mentor, seen in many stories.
Archetype
In the Hero’s Journey, what is the mentor’s role?
To guide or train the hero, often giving advice or magical tools.
The hero is given a magical item or advice to help them succeed.
Supernatural Aid
This character makes jokes and causes trouble, but also teaches lessons.
Trickster
Mulan disguises herself and trains with the army. Which Hero’s Journey step is this?
Challenges and Temptations
A repeated story idea, like “rags to riches” or “the chosen one.”
Trope
What does “Crossing the Threshold” mean?
The hero leaves their familiar world and enters the unknown.
The hero learns something shocking or eye-opening that changes everything.
Revelation
This character helps the hero but may switch sides or change loyalties.
Shapeshifter
Gandalf gives Frodo the ring and sends him off. What archetype is Gandalf?
Mentor
A traditional story that explains something about nature, life, or beliefs.
Myth
What usually happens during “Death and Rebirth”?
The hero faces a low point or symbolic death and emerges transformed.
The hero goes home a changed person with something to share.
Return
This character is what the hero could become if they fail or give in to darkness.
Shadow Self (Dark Mirror)
Simba confronts Scar and reclaims Pride Rock. What Hero’s Journey step is this?
Return
The message or lesson from a story.
Theme