Call to adventure

Definition

The call to adventure is a narrative element that initiates the hero's journey, compelling the protagonist to leave their ordinary world and embark on a quest. This moment often serves as a catalyst for character development and sets the stage for the epic's central conflict, introducing challenges that test the hero's courage and resolve.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The call to adventure often occurs early in epic narratives, highlighting a disruption in the hero's normal life that requires action.
2. This call can take many forms, such as receiving a prophecy, encountering a crisis, or being summoned by a powerful figure.
3. The hero's initial reluctance or refusal of the call is a common theme, emphasizing their internal struggle before accepting their fate.
4. Responding to the call often involves leaving behind familiar surroundings and embracing uncertainty, which is crucial for character growth.
5. The call to adventure sets in motion a series of events that will lead to trials and transformations, ultimately shaping the hero's identity.

Review Questions

• How does the call to adventure function as a critical turning point in an epic narrative?
  • The call to adventure serves as a critical turning point by disrupting the protagonist's ordinary world and prompting them to embark on their quest. It sets up the central conflict of the story and introduces challenges that will test the hero's abilities and beliefs. This moment not only propels the narrative forward but also marks the beginning of the hero's transformation, establishing themes of courage and self-discovery.
• In what ways can the reluctance of a hero to accept their call to adventure enhance the story's emotional depth?
  • A hero's reluctance to accept their call to adventure can enhance emotional depth by highlighting their internal conflicts and fears. This struggle makes them more relatable, as readers can empathize with their hesitation and doubts. It creates tension within the narrative, as audiences are eager to see how the hero overcomes these obstacles, allowing for richer character development and investment in their journey.
• Evaluate how different interpretations of the call to adventure might affect our understanding of epic heroes across cultures.
  • Different interpretations of the call to adventure can significantly influence our understanding of epic heroes across cultures. For instance, in some traditions, heroes may receive divine guidance or face societal expectations, while in others, personal desires or moral dilemmas might propel them forward. These variations reflect cultural values regarding fate, individualism, and responsibility. Analyzing these differences enriches our comprehension of what it means to be a hero within various cultural contexts and emphasizes how universal themes can manifest uniquely across narratives.

Related terms

hero's journey: A common narrative structure that outlines the typical stages of a hero's adventure, including departure, initiation, and return.

mentor: A guiding figure who assists the hero in navigating their journey, often providing wisdom, tools, or encouragement.

threshold guardian: Characters or obstacles that test the hero's resolve before they can fully enter the new world of adventure.