Unit 5 Discussion – The Hero’s Journey
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Discussion: Unit 5, Due Wednesday by 11:59 pm CT
The Hero’s Journey
Instructions:
Please complete the following steps for your discussion post.
After you have completed the Unit 5 material and have considered the role of the hero in pop culture, consider following questions:
- What “recycled themes” are apparent in fictional or mythical hero stories? Give specific examples.
- Why do these recycled themes exist so often in these stories?
- How does the concept of the monomyth/Hero’s Journey and the other recycled themes in hero stories support or refute the theory of popular culture you wrote about in your Unit 2 assignment?
Please be sure to validate your opinions and ideas with citations and references in APA format.
Estimated time to complete: 2 hours
This topic is valued at 40 points. Please review post and response expectations. Please review the rubric to ensure that your response meets criteria (Read Me First Section of the Course).
Peer Response: Unit 5, Due Sunday by 11:59 pm CT
The Hero’s Journey
Instructions:
Please post 2 peer responses.
In the response post, include the following:
- Respectfully share your own perspectives and ideas with classmates you may disagree with.
- Add new ideas to the discussion instead of just agreeing that something in the reading was interesting or reiterating what others said in the discussion.
- Find an additional source online or in the library that adds a new perspective to what has already been said.
- Offer an opposing viewpoint that is supported by fact and research.
Please be sure to validate your opinions and ideas with citations and references in APA format.
Estimated time to complete: 2 hours
Please review post and response expectations. Please review the rubric to ensure that your response meets criteria (Read Me First Section of the Course).
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The Hero’s Journey is a popular theme that appears in fictional or mythical hero stories. As medical students, analyzing the motives and themes that characters possess can enhance their understanding of human behavior and emotions. Thus, this assignment is an opportunity to explore the motives and themes that contribute to The Hero’s Journey.
1. What “recycled themes” are apparent in fictional or mythical hero stories? Give specific examples.
Several ubiquitous themes are present in fictional or mythical hero stories. For instance, one of the most common themes is the call to adventure. The hero is usually given a quest or a challenge that marks the beginning of their journey. Another recycled theme is the hero’s transformation or character development, which occurs throughout the journey. Additionally, another common theme is the hero’s obstacles and challenges, which help shape their character and sharpen their abilities. The theme of sacrifice is also frequently present. The hero usually sacrifices something to complete their mission or as part of their personal growth. Examples of these themes can be found in myths, legends, and movies. For instance, in the Harry Potter series, Harry’s call to adventure is marked by receiving his acceptance letter to Hogwarts. Throughout the series, Harry undergoes numerous challenges, including fighting Voldemort and learning important life lessons.
2. Why do these recycled themes exist so often in these stories?
One explanation for why these themes exist so often in these stories is that they reflect the human experience. The Hero’s Journey is a reflection of the trials and tribulations that people face in life. This universal appeal allows the audience to connect with the hero’s journey, which is often emotionally resonant. Additionally, these themes provide structure and create a sense of familiarity, which can make a story more enjoyable for the audience. The repetition of these themes can also lead to the creation of archetypes and symbols that are easily recognizable, which allows the audience to connect with the characters and their journey.
3. How does the concept of the monomyth/Hero’s Journey and the other recycled themes in hero stories support or refute the theory of popular culture you wrote about in your Unit 2 assignment?
The concept of the monomyth/Hero’s Journey and the other recycled themes in hero stories support the theory of popular culture, as they are often used in mainstream media and have gained a global following. The themes and archetypes present in The Hero’s Journey can also be seen in other areas of pop culture, such as music, art, and literature. Moreover, these themes and archetypes have become part of our cultural DNA. However, these themes can also refute the theory of popular culture, as some media may not conform to these themes, yet remain popular.
