Refusal of the Call

Definition

Refusal of the call is a critical moment in a hero's journey where the protagonist initially rejects or hesitates to embrace the adventure or challenge presented to them. This moment serves as an important narrative device, highlighting the internal conflict and fear that often accompany the call to adventure, setting the stage for character development and eventual acceptance of their role as a hero.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The refusal of the call often reflects the hero's fear of change or uncertainty about their abilities, making it a relatable moment for audiences.
2. This stage can be triggered by various factors, including doubts from mentors, societal expectations, or personal insecurities.
3. The moment of refusal creates tension in the narrative, as it highlights the stakes involved and deepens the audience's investment in the hero's journey.
4. Eventually, heroes typically overcome their initial refusal, leading to growth and acceptance of their destiny.
5. Many stories use this moment to illustrate themes of courage and perseverance, showing how heroes confront their fears to fulfill their potential.

Review Questions

• How does the refusal of the call contribute to character development within a story?
  • The refusal of the call is significant for character development because it exposes the hero's vulnerabilities and internal struggles. This moment allows audiences to connect with the hero on a deeper level, as they witness their fears and doubts. Overcoming this initial resistance often leads to growth, demonstrating how characters can evolve from reluctance into confidence as they accept their roles and responsibilities.
• In what ways can external influences impact a hero's decision to refuse the call?
  • External influences such as mentors, family expectations, or societal norms can heavily impact a hero's decision to refuse the call. For instance, a mentor might instill doubt by questioning the hero's readiness or capability, leading them to hesitate. This dynamic not only adds complexity to the story but also illustrates how characters grapple with both personal aspirations and external pressures before ultimately deciding to embrace their journey.
• Evaluate how different narratives utilize the refusal of the call to enhance thematic elements within their stories.
  • Different narratives creatively use the refusal of the call to enhance themes such as personal growth, courage, and destiny. By showcasing a hero's initial reluctance, stories emphasize the internal battles individuals face when confronting life-altering challenges. This moment can deepen thematic exploration by highlighting how overcoming fear is essential for achieving one's purpose. The evolution from hesitation to acceptance often serves as a powerful commentary on human resilience and the transformative nature of taking risks.

Related terms

Call to Adventure:

The event or challenge that prompts the hero to leave their ordinary world and embark on a journey toward personal growth and transformation.

Hero's Transformation: The process through which a hero evolves throughout their journey, often involving overcoming obstacles and learning valuable lessons.

Threshold Guardian: A character or force that tests the hero's resolve, often appearing during the refusal of the call to challenge their readiness for the adventure ahead.