Steps of the Hero's Journey

The hero is shown in the world as it exists, considered by those in it to be ordinary and uneventful.

• Refusal of the Call

• The Resurrection

• The Ordinary World

• Meeting with the Mentor

Someone or something presents the hero with a problem, challenge, or an adventure. This can be an event or a person.

• Meeting with the Mentor

• The Call to Adventure

• The Ordeal

• Return with the Elixir

The hero is reluctant or frightened to accept the call and begin the journey. The hero feels the fear of the unknown and tries to turn away from the adventure, however briefly. Alternately, another character may express the uncertainty and danger ahead.

• Refusal of the Call

• The Road Back

• The Ordinary World

• Crossing the Threshold

The hero comes across a veteran traveler of the Special World who provides training, equipment, weapons, or advice that will help on the journey.

• The Reward

• Approach to the Inmost Cave

• The Resurrection

• Meeting with the Mentor

A "point of no return" is crossed. The hero commits to the journey and enters into the Special World.

• The Road Back

• Approaching the Inmost Cave

• The Ordeal

• Crossing the Threshold

The hero faces the initial tests/conflicts and sorts out allegiances in the Special World.

• Tests, Allies, and Enemies

• The Call to Adventure

• The Road Back

• Return with the Elixir

The hero and new-found allies are reminded of the main challenge that lies ahead in the Special World.

• Tests, Allies, and Enemies

• The Ordeal

• Approach to the Inmost Cave

• Meeting with the Mentor

The hero reaches their original goal, confronts death, or faces their greatest fear. All the hard work and training is put to the test.

• The Ordeal

• Crossing the Threshold

• The Ordinary World

• The Reward

The hero receives something for their victory or failure,

and must accept the consequences.

• Meeting with the Mentor

• The Reward

• Return with the Elixir

• Refusal of the Call

The Hero must complete the adventure, leave the Special World, and get the "treasure" home safely.

• The Road Back

• The Ordeal

• Crossing the Threshold

• Tests, Allies, and Enemies