Refusal of the Call

Definition

The refusal of the call is a pivotal moment in the hero's journey where the protagonist initially rejects the invitation to embark on an adventure. This moment highlights the hero's hesitation and fear of change, reflecting their internal conflict between comfort and the unknown. The refusal serves as a crucial element that sets up the character's eventual growth and transformation, as it often leads to further challenges that propel them into the adventure they must undertake.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The refusal of the call often reveals a hero's doubts, fears, or personal struggles that make them hesitant to accept their destiny.
2. This moment is crucial for character development, providing insight into the hero's psyche and establishing emotional stakes in their journey.
3. The hero's refusal can lead to consequences that further complicate their situation, pushing them toward eventual acceptance of the call.
4. In many stories, a mentor figure plays a role in overcoming the hero's reluctance by offering guidance and encouragement.
5. The refusal of the call emphasizes themes of growth and self-discovery, as heroes must confront their fears before they can fully embrace their journey.

Review Questions

• How does the refusal of the call illustrate a hero's internal conflict?
  • The refusal of the call illustrates a hero's internal conflict by showcasing their doubts and fears about stepping into the unknown. This moment highlights the struggle between remaining in their comfort zone and embracing change, revealing deeper emotional stakes. The hesitance reflects how much is at risk for the hero if they choose to embark on this journey, setting up a compelling narrative arc.
• Analyze how mentors influence a hero's decision to overcome their refusal of the call.
  • Mentors play a crucial role in influencing a hero’s decision to overcome their refusal of the call by providing wisdom, support, and motivation. These figures often identify the potential within the hero that they cannot see themselves and help them confront their fears. Through guidance, mentors encourage heroes to take that leap of faith, reinforcing themes of courage and self-belief that are vital for growth.
• Evaluate how the refusal of the call contributes to a story’s overall themes of growth and transformation.
  • The refusal of the call significantly contributes to a story’s themes of growth and transformation by establishing critical moments of hesitation that characters must navigate. By initially rejecting their journey, heroes face challenges that force them to confront their fears and insecurities. This struggle not only emphasizes their personal growth but also highlights universal themes about courage, resilience, and self-discovery, making their eventual acceptance of the call all the more impactful.

Related terms

Hero's Journey:

A narrative framework that outlines the typical adventure of the archetype known as the hero, involving stages such as call to adventure, refusal, initiation, and return.

Threshold Guardian:

A character or force that tests the hero's readiness and determination to embark on their journey, often appearing during the refusal of the call.

Transformation: The process through which a character undergoes significant growth and change as a result of their experiences during the adventure.