The Hero's Journey Steps

Front

1. THE ORDINARY WORLD

Back

The hero is introduced so the audience can identify with the situation or dilemma. Something in the hero’s life is pulling in different directions and causing stress.

Front

2. THE CALL TO ADVENTURE

Back

Something shakes up the situation so the hero must face the beginnings of change.

Front

3. REFUSAL OF THE CALL

Back

The hero feels the fear of the unknown and tries to turn away from the adventure. Another character may express the uncertainty and danger ahead.

Front

4. MEETING WITH THE MENTOR

Back

The hero comes across a seasoned traveler of the worlds who gives him or her training, equipment, or advice that will help on the journey. Or the hero reaches within to a source of courage and wisdom.

Front

5. CROSSING THE THRESHOLD

Back

At the end of Act One, the hero commits to leaving the Ordinary World and entering a new region or condition with unfamiliar rules and values.

Front

6. TESTS, ALLIES AND ENEMIES

Back

The hero is tested and sorts out allegiances (who's on her side) in the Special World.

Front

7. APPROACH

Back

The hero and newfound allies prepare for the major challenge in the Special world.

Front

8. THE ORDEAL

Back

Near the middle of the story, the hero enters a central space in the Special World and confronts death or faces his or her greatest fear. Out of the moment of death comes a new life.

Front

9. THE REWARD

Back

The hero takes possession of the treasure won by facing death. There may be celebration, but there is also danger of losing the treasure again.

Front

10. THE ROAD BACK

Back

About three-fourths of the way through the story, the hero is driven to complete the adventure, leaving the Special World to be sure the treasure is brought home. Often a chase scene signals the urgency and danger of the mission.