Refusal of the Call

Definition

Refusal of the Call is a narrative device where the protagonist initially resists or declines the invitation to embark on a transformative journey or adventure. This moment often highlights the character's fears, doubts, or conflicts and sets the stage for their eventual acceptance of the call, marking an essential turning point in their development and the overall story arc.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The refusal often reflects the protagonist's reluctance to leave their comfort zone, showcasing their vulnerability and fears.
2. This moment can be crucial for character development, as it often leads to an internal struggle that must be resolved before they can accept the call.
3. Refusal of the Call can serve as a device to build tension, making the eventual acceptance of the call more impactful.
4. Many iconic stories feature this refusal, such as Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars', where he initially hesitates to leave his home planet.
5. The refusal can also introduce secondary characters who help guide or pressure the protagonist toward accepting their destiny.

Review Questions

• How does the refusal of the call contribute to a character's development in storytelling?
  • The refusal of the call plays a significant role in character development by allowing the protagonist's fears and conflicts to surface. This moment creates depth as viewers connect with the character's internal struggle. By witnessing their reluctance, audiences understand what is at stake for them and how this impacts their journey. Eventually, when they do accept the call, it becomes a moment of triumph over their doubts.
• Discuss how refusal of the call can enhance tension in a narrative. Provide examples.
  • Refusal of the call enhances tension by delaying the protagonist's journey and creating stakes. For instance, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Frodo's initial reluctance to leave the Shire amplifies suspense as threats loom over Middle-earth. This hesitation gives time for danger to escalate while allowing for character interactions that deepen relationships and conflicts. The longer a character hesitates, the more invested audiences become in their eventual decision.
• Evaluate how refusal of the call relates to themes of personal growth and transformation within narratives.
  • Refusal of the call is pivotal in exploring themes of personal growth and transformation. It embodies the universal struggle against change and fear of the unknown. By portraying characters who initially resist their fate, stories highlight their journey from insecurity to empowerment. Analyzing characters like Bilbo Baggins from 'The Hobbit' showcases how overcoming initial reluctance leads not just to adventure but also self-discovery and maturity, reflecting broader life experiences about embracing change.

Related terms

Hero's Journey: A narrative framework that outlines the typical adventure of the hero, including stages like the Call to Adventure and Refusal of the Call, leading to personal transformation.

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character throughout a story, often involving significant changes in their beliefs, values, or understanding.

Inciting Incident: An event that sets the main plot in motion, often prompting the protagonist to confront challenges that lead to the Call to Adventure.