Call to Adventure

Definition

The call to adventure is a narrative element that signifies the moment when a hero is summoned to embark on a journey or face a significant challenge. This moment often disrupts the hero's ordinary life, presenting them with an opportunity for growth and transformation, and serves as the catalyst for the unfolding of their epic tale.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In epic poetry, the call to adventure often takes the form of a divine message or prophecy that prompts the hero to take action.
2. This moment is crucial as it sets the stage for the hero's journey, leading to encounters with allies, enemies, and various trials.
3. Famous examples of calls to adventure can be found in works like 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey,' where heroes are pushed into conflict and exploration.
4. The call to adventure can come from external forces such as gods or fate, or from internal struggles within the hero themselves.
5. The hero's response to this call can reveal much about their character and foreshadow their development throughout the epic.

Review Questions

• How does the call to adventure function as a catalyst for character development in epic poetry?
  • The call to adventure acts as a pivotal moment in epic poetry, propelling the hero out of their mundane existence into a world filled with challenges and growth opportunities. This moment often reveals the hero's values and strengths while also exposing their vulnerabilities. As they respond to this call, their journey begins, leading them through trials that ultimately shape their character and destiny.
• Discuss how different characters may respond to the call to adventure in epic poetry, and what this reveals about them.
  • Characters in epic poetry can respond to the call to adventure in various ways, ranging from eager acceptance to outright refusal. For instance, some may embrace the challenge immediately, showing bravery and ambition, while others might hesitate due to fear or doubt. These responses highlight their personality traits and set the tone for their development throughout the story. Additionally, such reactions can reflect broader themes of duty versus desire or fate versus free will.
• Evaluate the significance of the call to adventure within the broader narrative framework of epic poetry and its impact on themes of heroism.
  • The call to adventure is central to the narrative framework of epic poetry as it marks the transition from ordinary life to an extraordinary quest. Its significance lies in how it initiates a series of events that explore themes of heroism, sacrifice, and transformation. By analyzing how different heroes respond to this pivotal moment, readers can better understand what defines true heroism in various cultural contexts. The impact on themes extends beyond individual journeys, offering insights into societal values regarding courage, duty, and personal growth.

Related terms

Hero's Journey: A narrative structure that outlines the typical stages a hero goes through in a story, often including the call to adventure, trials, and eventual return.

Mentor: A wise and experienced character who guides the hero during their journey, often providing support and encouragement after the call to adventure.

Threshold Guardian: A character or obstacle that stands in the way of the hero’s journey, testing their resolve and commitment after they receive the call to adventure.