The hero’s journey

Template structure

What the project starts with

1. Departure

   The hero leaves the known world.

   1. Ch. 1The ordinary worldThe hero before the adventure: home, habits and what is missing.
   2. Ch. 2The call to adventureA challenge or a message disturbs the ordinary world.
   3. Ch. 3Refusal of the callFear or duty holds the hero back.
   4. Ch. 4Meeting the mentorSomeone gives advice, training or a gift.
   5. Ch. 5Crossing the first thresholdThe hero enters the special world.

2. Initiation

   Trials in the special world, and the great ordeal.

   1. Ch. 6Tests, allies and enemiesThe hero learns the rules of the new world.
   2. Ch. 7Approach to the inmost cavePreparations for the central danger.
   3. Ch. 8The ordealA life-or-death crisis; something in the hero dies.
   4. Ch. 9The rewardThe hero seizes the treasure, knowledge or reconciliation.

3. Return

   The way home, one last test, and what the hero brings back.

   1. Ch. 10The road backThe hero turns for home, often chased.
   2. Ch. 11ResurrectionA final test where everything learned is put to use.
   3. Ch. 12Return with the elixirThe hero comes home changed, with something to share.