Hero's Journey
In order to begin their journeys, the hero must be called away from the ordinary world and removed from their typical environment. Usually there is a discovery, event, problem or danger that spurs them on their journey. The new world the hero enters is very different than the old one and adventure awaits them.
Stage One: Ordinary World
Who is the main character
What weapon blinds Polyphemus?
A stake
A long narrative poem that tells the story of a hero’s journey.
The central message or lesson of a story.
Theme
The hero is faced with a series of obstacles or challenges that they must overcome. This makes them stronger and wiser so they are prepared to face the supreme ordeal. They may come across enemies or meet other characters who become companions and help them on their quest.
Stage 6: Tests, Allies, and Enemies
One eyed monster who eats some of Odysseus' crew
How to Odysseus and his men sneak out of the cave?
They hide under the sheep
A larger than life character who goes on a dangerous journey and represents the values of a culture.
Epic Hero
A long, detailed comparison using “like” or “as.”
Epic Simile
Prepared with the skills and knowledge they've acquired on their journey, the hero faces their biggest obstacle. During this battle the hero usually loses something important to them, whether this is an object, a mentor, the battle itself or a life. The hero succeeds and the tension is relieved although their quest still is not quite over.
Stage 8: The Supreme Ordeal
Which god protects Odysseus from Circe?
Hermes
How long does Odysseus and his men stay on Circe's island?
One year
When the story begins in the middle of action.
In medias res
When a story moves back in time to tell past events.
Flashback
The hero decides it's time to return home to the ordinary world. They understand they've accomplished a great fete but the trouble might not be over yet. There are still some obstacles to overcome.
Stage 10: The Road Back
Odysseus' son's name
How does Odysseus prevent his crew from hearing the Sirens?
He plugs their ears with wax
A repeated descriptive phrase used to describe a character. (EX. Using "Wanderer" to describe Odysseus)
Epithet
Giving human like qualities to non-human things.
Personification
Before they leave on their journey, the hero is given a task or quest which only they can complete. They are faced with a choice to either accept or refuse this task. There's a reason they've been chosen so of course, they eventually accept the call and advance to the next stage of their quest.
Stage 3: Accepting The Call
The King who gave Odysseus the bag of winds
King Aeolus
Who cursed Odysseus?
Poseidon
The ancient greek code of hospitality to strangers.
Xenia
When you say the opposite of what you mean.
Verbal irony