Deciphering the Significance of Call Refusal in the Hero’s Journey- A Narrative Exploration
What does refusal of the call mean in hero’s journey?
The hero’s journey, a narrative structure popularized by Joseph Campbell, is a story that follows a protagonist on a transformative quest. Central to this journey is the call to adventure, which marks the beginning of the hero’s odyssey. However, the hero’s initial response to this call is often one of refusal. This refusal, while seemingly counterintuitive, plays a crucial role in the hero’s development and the narrative’s progression. This article explores the significance of the refusal of the call in the hero’s journey, highlighting its impact on the hero’s character and the story’s themes.
The call to adventure represents an invitation for the hero to leave their ordinary world and embark on a quest. This invitation is often accompanied by a sense of urgency or a problem that needs to be addressed. The hero, however, may initially resist this call for various reasons. These reasons can range from fear of the unknown, attachment to the familiar, or a lack of confidence in their abilities.
Understanding the reasons behind the hero’s refusal is essential to appreciating its role in the narrative. Fear of the unknown is a common reason for refusal, as the hero may be apprehensive about facing the dangers and challenges that lie ahead. Attachment to the familiar is another driving force, as the hero may be reluctant to leave behind their comfortable life and the people they love. Additionally, a lack of confidence in their abilities can lead to the hero’s hesitation, as they may believe they are not equipped to handle the task at hand.
The refusal of the call serves several purposes in the hero’s journey. Firstly, it establishes the hero’s initial character traits and motivations. By showing the hero’s reluctance to accept the call, the narrative reveals their fears, doubts, and vulnerabilities. This initial resistance allows the audience to connect with the hero on a deeper level, as they recognize their own hesitations and fears in similar situations.
Secondly, the refusal of the call sets the stage for the hero’s transformation. The hero’s initial resistance is a critical moment that marks the beginning of their journey. It is through this resistance that the hero begins to grow and change. The hero’s subsequent acceptance of the call, often prompted by a mentor or a life-changing event, signifies their readiness to face the challenges ahead.
Moreover, the refusal of the call serves as a catalyst for the story’s themes. It highlights themes of fear, courage, and personal growth. The hero’s initial hesitation forces them to confront their fears and overcome their limitations. This confrontation is a central theme in the hero’s journey, as it is through facing their fears that the hero learns to grow and develop. The narrative’s exploration of these themes adds depth and meaning to the story, making it resonate with readers on a personal level.
In conclusion, the refusal of the call in the hero’s journey is a pivotal moment that shapes the hero’s character and the narrative’s progression. It serves to establish the hero’s initial traits and motivations, sets the stage for their transformation, and highlights the story’s themes of fear, courage, and personal growth. By understanding the significance of the refusal of the call, we can appreciate the hero’s journey as a transformative and relatable narrative that continues to captivate audiences across generations.
