Return

Definition

In the context of the monomyth, or hero's journey, 'return' refers to the stage where the hero comes back to their ordinary world after completing their adventure and acquiring new wisdom or knowledge. This phase is crucial as it signifies the hero's transformation and their ability to share insights gained from their journey with others, often leading to positive change in their community or environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The return often involves a confrontation with obstacles or challenges that test the hero’s growth before they can fully reintegrate into their original world.
2. In many stories, the hero's return is marked by a transformation not only in themselves but also in their community, leading to a change in relationships or dynamics.
3. The concept of return highlights the importance of sharing experiences and lessons learned from one's journey for the benefit of others.
4. This stage can vary significantly in its portrayal; some heroes return willingly while others may be forced to come back due to circumstances beyond their control.
5. The final return is often accompanied by a sense of resolution and closure, allowing both the hero and the audience to reflect on the journey as a whole.

Review Questions

• How does the return phase contribute to the overall narrative structure of the monomyth?
  • The return phase is essential because it brings closure to the hero's journey and reinforces the transformation they have undergone. By returning home, the hero not only completes their arc but also has an opportunity to apply what they learned in their adventure. This stage demonstrates how personal growth can impact not just the individual but also those around them, tying together themes of responsibility and leadership within the narrative.
• Discuss how different stories depict the challenges faced during the return phase and their significance.
  • Different narratives showcase various challenges during the return phase that reflect the hero’s internal struggles as well as external obstacles. For instance, some heroes may confront adversaries from their past or face skepticism from those who do not understand their experiences. These challenges serve to highlight how far the hero has come and often symbolize deeper themes like acceptance and reconciliation. The resolution of these conflicts plays a pivotal role in emphasizing growth and reaffirming bonds with their community.
• Evaluate the role of the elixir brought back by heroes during their return and its implications for societal change.
  • The elixir represents not just physical rewards but also profound wisdom and experiences that can catalyze change within society. When heroes bring back knowledge or insights gained from their journeys, they can inspire others to grow, challenge outdated beliefs, or even instigate social reforms. This aspect of return illustrates a cycle of learning and teaching within communities, suggesting that individual growth is intricately tied to collective progress. Through this lens, the return becomes a transformative moment for both the hero and their society.

Related terms

Hero's Journey: A narrative pattern identified by Joseph Campbell that outlines the stages a hero goes through in a story, including departure, initiation, and return.

Crossing the Threshold: The moment when the hero leaves their ordinary world and enters a new, unfamiliar realm where the adventure takes place.

Elixir: The knowledge, wisdom, or tangible item that the hero acquires during their journey, which is often brought back during the return phase.