Refusal of the return

Definition

The refusal of the return is a stage in the hero's journey where the hero hesitates or outright refuses to go back to their ordinary world after achieving their quest. This moment is significant as it highlights the internal struggle the hero faces, often stemming from fear of losing newfound knowledge, power, or identity. It also emphasizes the transformation the hero has undergone and their reluctance to leave behind the extraordinary experiences that have shaped them.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The refusal of the return often occurs after the hero has achieved their ultimate boon and is faced with the choice of returning to their old life.
2. This stage can reveal the emotional conflicts within the hero, showcasing their fears and uncertainties about reintegrating into their previous environment.
3. In many stories, this refusal may be overcome through encouragement from allies or through a deeper realization of their responsibilities.
4. The refusal of the return can serve to heighten drama in the narrative, delaying resolution and increasing tension for both the hero and the audience.
5. Examples of this stage can be found in various epics and sagas, where heroes grapple with their new identities and what it means to return home.

Review Questions

• How does the refusal of the return illustrate the internal struggles faced by heroes after their quests?
  • The refusal of the return highlights the internal conflicts heroes experience as they grapple with returning to a familiar world after undergoing profound transformations. Often, they feel torn between the allure of their new identity and experiences gained during their quest, and the comfort or responsibilities of their previous life. This struggle emphasizes character development and allows readers to connect with heroes on a deeper emotional level.
• Discuss how the refusal of the return affects narrative tension and character development within epic stories.
  • The refusal of the return creates significant narrative tension by delaying resolution and leaving audiences uncertain about whether the hero will embrace their old life or fully commit to their new identity. This stage enhances character development by allowing heroes to confront their fears and insecurities, ultimately leading them to grow and evolve. Such moments also serve as pivotal points that can redefine a character’s motivations and future actions.
• Evaluate how different cultural narratives approach the theme of refusal of the return and its implications for understanding heroism.
  • Different cultural narratives often approach the refusal of the return by highlighting unique aspects of heroism tied to societal values. For example, in some cultures, embracing change may be celebrated while others may emphasize duty towards family or community. Evaluating these perspectives reveals how heroes are often reflective of cultural ideals, showcasing that heroism is not just about physical journeys but also about personal growth and societal responsibilities. This complexity adds depth to our understanding of what it means to be a hero across various contexts.

Related terms

hero's journey: A narrative framework that outlines the typical adventures of a hero as they embark on a quest, face challenges, and ultimately return transformed.

threshold guardian: A character or obstacle that appears at a critical point in the hero's journey, testing the hero's resolve and determination to continue their quest.

ultimate boon: The final goal or reward that the hero seeks during their journey, often representing personal growth, knowledge, or an object of great significance.