Call to Adventure

Definition

The call to adventure is a crucial moment in storytelling where the hero is invited to embark on a journey that will change their life forever. This moment signifies the beginning of a transformative quest, often presenting a challenge or an opportunity that disrupts the hero's ordinary world, pushing them toward growth and discovery. It connects deeply with various narrative structures, influencing how heroes evolve throughout their journeys.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The call to adventure often appears early in a story and serves as a catalyst for change, prompting the hero to leave their comfort zone.
2. This element can take many forms, such as a direct challenge, a prophecy, or even an unexpected event that creates urgency for the hero.
3. The response to the call is pivotal; heroes may initially refuse it due to fear or uncertainty before ultimately deciding to accept the challenge.
4. The call to adventure establishes the stakes of the journey, highlighting what the hero stands to gain or lose by embarking on their quest.
5. Many iconic stories feature this element, including classic epics like 'The Odyssey' and modern films like 'Star Wars,' showcasing its universal appeal across genres.

Review Questions

• How does the call to adventure impact the development of a hero in various narratives?
  • The call to adventure serves as a significant turning point that pushes the hero out of their ordinary world and into a transformative journey. It not only marks the start of their quest but also sets the stage for character development by challenging them with new experiences and obstacles. As they respond to this call, heroes often confront personal fears and limitations, leading to growth and change throughout their narrative.
• Discuss how different genres utilize the call to adventure and provide examples of its significance in at least two narratives.
  • Different genres utilize the call to adventure in unique ways, reflecting their themes and character arcs. For example, in fantasy narratives like 'The Hobbit,' Bilbo Baggins receives his call through an unexpected visit from Gandalf and dwarves, which thrusts him into an epic journey. In contrast, in a contemporary drama like 'The Pursuit of Happyness,' Chris Gardner's call comes from dire economic circumstances that propel him toward personal success. Both examples demonstrate how this element catalyzes change and sets heroes on paths of discovery.
• Evaluate the role of the mentor in relation to the call to adventure and how it affects the hero's acceptance of their journey.
  • Mentors play a crucial role in relation to the call to adventure by guiding heroes toward accepting their paths. They provide wisdom, encouragement, and sometimes essential tools that help heroes overcome their initial reluctance. In stories like 'Harry Potter,' Dumbledore’s guidance helps Harry embrace his destiny following his call. The mentor's influence can significantly impact whether heroes accept their challenges or retreat back into safety, thereby shaping the trajectory of their journeys.

Related terms

Hero's Journey: A narrative framework that outlines the typical stages a hero goes through during their adventure, from the call to adventure to the return home.

Mentor: A wise figure who guides and assists the hero during their journey, often helping them to accept the call to adventure.

Threshold Crossing: The moment when the hero leaves their familiar world and enters the unknown, often following the call to adventure.