The Monomyth and Hero's Journey

Joseph Campbell's Monomyth (from the Greek "mono" meaning "one"), sometimes referred to as the Hero's Journey, remains a staple of analysis in literature and film courses. There are many connections that can be made to the three stages of the Journey and they apply to nearly all of film and literature: 1) the hero(ine) leaves home or a zone of comfort and safety; 2) they encounter obstacles that they overcome through trial, training, and sacrifice; and then 3) they reflect and learn from the experience while returning home. Using this template of analysis can yield positive results with creating your own stories, as well as breaking down and analyzing stories you encounter, whether in the literature or films that we are studying in class. Read through Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces (1949) in the Online Texts tab.

The key thing to remember is that you are the Hero of your own story, and can overcome those obstacles in your Journey that you encounter. Push yourself to leave your comfort zone. Use and heed your own Mentors and Guides who wish to help you, but know that you will have to overcome your Supreme Ordeal on your own, through trial, and dedication, and sacrifice. Make sure to contemplate those things you have accomplished, and keep your results in perspective as you return Home.