11.2 Hero's journey and other narrative structures
14 min read•august 20, 2024
Narrative structures are powerful tools for crafting compelling stories. From the to the , these frameworks provide a roadmap for engaging audiences. Understanding these structures helps writers create memorable tales that resonate with readers.
Corporate communicators can leverage narrative structures to craft brand stories and presentations. By applying storytelling techniques, companies can create emotional connections with customers and deliver persuasive messages. Mastering these structures enhances communication effectiveness across various mediums.
Hero's journey framework
The Hero's Journey is a common narrative structure that follows a hero who goes on an adventure, learns a lesson, wins a victory with that newfound knowledge, and then returns home transformed
This framework, identified by , is widely used in storytelling across various mediums (films, novels, plays)
The Hero's Journey consists of twelve main stages that outline the hero's path from the ordinary world to the extraordinary and back again
Ordinary world
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The hero's normal life before the adventure begins
Establishes the hero's character, relationships, and setting
Provides a contrast to the extraordinary world the hero will soon enter
Often depicts the hero as unsatisfied, restless, or longing for something more
Call to adventure
The hero is presented with a challenge, problem, or adventure that must be undertaken
This call disrupts the comfort of the hero's ordinary world and presents an opportunity for growth
The call can come from an external source (a message, a person, an event) or from within the hero (a desire for change, a need to prove oneself)
Examples: Harry Potter receiving his Hogwarts letter, Luke Skywalker finding Princess Leia's message in R2-D2
Refusal of the call
The hero initially refuses the due to fear, insecurity, or a sense of duty to the ordinary world
This refusal heightens the stakes and demonstrates the hero's humanity
The hero may require encouragement or persuasion from a mentor figure to accept the call
Ultimately, the hero must overcome their hesitation and cross the threshold into the unknown
Meeting with the mentor
The hero encounters a wise, experienced mentor who provides guidance, training, and often a gift or tool for the journey ahead
The mentor helps the hero navigate the challenges of the extraordinary world and offers wisdom and support
Examples of mentors include Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, Dumbledore in Harry Potter, and Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars
The mentor's role is to prepare the hero for the trials they will face and to instill confidence in their abilities
Crossing the threshold
The hero leaves the ordinary world and enters the special world of the adventure
This crossing signifies a point of no return, as the hero commits to the journey and faces new challenges and rules
The threshold can be a physical boundary (a door, a border) or a symbolic one (a decision, a rite of passage)
marks the end of the hero's old life and the beginning of the transformation
Tests, allies, and enemies
In the special world, the hero faces a series of tests, challenges, and obstacles that help them grow and learn
The hero meets allies who provide assistance, companionship, and support during the journey
Enemies and adversaries also appear, challenging the hero and creating
These experiences help the hero develop new skills, gain insights, and prepare for the greater challenges ahead
Approach to the inmost cave
The hero nears the central part of the adventure, often a dangerous or forbidden place that holds the object of the quest
This approach is marked by increased danger, intensity, and a sense of impending
The hero may need to prepare physically, mentally, and emotionally for the ahead
The represents a deeper commitment to the journey and a willingness to face the greatest challenges
Ordeal
The hero faces the central crisis of the adventure, the most difficult and dangerous challenge
This ordeal is often a confrontation with the hero's greatest fear or the main antagonist of the story
The hero must draw upon all they have learned and experienced to overcome this challenge
The ordeal is a defining moment in the hero's journey, often resulting in a symbolic death and rebirth
Reward
Having survived the ordeal, the hero gains the they sought, which can be a physical object, knowledge, or personal growth
The reward often comes with a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world
This success affirms the hero's growth and mastery of the special world
The reward may also bring new responsibilities or challenges for the hero to face
The road back
The hero begins the journey back to the ordinary world, often pursued by remaining forces of the special world
This stage marks a decision to return to the ordinary world with the reward and newfound wisdom
can be a chase, a dangerous escape, or a series of final tests that the hero must overcome
The hero must navigate the consequences of their actions and prepare to bring their insights back to the ordinary world
Resurrection
The hero faces a final challenge or confrontation that represents a purification or transformation
This challenge is often an external manifestation of the hero's internal struggles and doubts
By overcoming this final test, the hero demonstrates their growth and mastery of both worlds
The affirms the hero's identity and their ability to integrate the lessons of the journey
Return with the elixir
The hero returns to the ordinary world, bringing with them the reward, knowledge, or elixir gained from the adventure
The elixir can be a physical object, a new perspective, or a solution to the problems of the ordinary world
The hero shares the benefits of the journey with others, using their newfound wisdom to improve their community or society
The return marks the end of the hero's journey and the beginning of a new life, forever changed by the experience
Three-act structure
The three-act structure is a traditional narrative framework that divides a story into three main parts: , confrontation, and
This structure is widely used in screenwriting, playwriting, and novel writing to organize the plot and character development
The three acts are connected by two major plot points that propel the story forward and raise the stakes for the characters
Setup
The first act of the story, which introduces the main characters, their world, and the central conflict or problem
Establishes the protagonist's goals, desires, and obstacles, as well as the antagonist or opposing force
Often includes an inciting incident that disrupts the status quo and sets the story in motion
The setup ends with the first major plot point, which thrusts the protagonist into the main conflict and marks the transition to the second act
Confrontation
The second act of the story, where the protagonist faces a series of challenges, obstacles, and setbacks in pursuit of their goal
The main conflict intensifies as the protagonist struggles against the antagonist or opposing force
Subplots and secondary characters are developed, adding complexity and depth to the story
The confrontation ends with the second major plot point, often a low point for the protagonist that sets up the final act
Resolution
The third and final act of the story, where the protagonist confronts the central conflict and works towards a resolution
The main plot and subplots converge, leading to a where the protagonist faces the ultimate challenge
The resolution includes the aftermath of the climax, showing the consequences of the protagonist's actions and the new status quo
The story ends with a sense of closure, with the protagonist having changed or grown as a result of their journey
Freytag's pyramid
is a dramatic structure that maps the progression of a story's plot, originally developed by German novelist and playwright Gustav Freytag
The pyramid consists of five parts: , , climax, , and
This structure is often used in classical drama and short stories, focusing on the rise and fall of the main conflict
Exposition
The opening part of the story that introduces the setting, characters, and initial conflict
Provides background information necessary for understanding the plot and character motivations
Establishes the status quo and the world of the story before the main conflict arises
Often includes an inciting incident that sets the story in motion and leads to the rising action
Rising action
The part of the story where the main conflict intensifies and the protagonist faces a series of challenges and obstacles
The rising action builds tension and as the protagonist works towards their goal
Subplots and secondary characters are introduced, adding complexity to the story
The rising action leads to the climax, the highest point of tension and the turning point of the story
Climax
The pivotal moment in the story where the main conflict reaches its peak and the protagonist faces the ultimate challenge
The climax is the turning point that determines the outcome of the story and the fate of the characters
Often involves a confrontation between the protagonist and the antagonist or a resolution of the central problem
The climax marks the transition from rising action to falling action
Falling action
The part of the story that follows the climax, showing the consequences of the protagonist's actions and the resolution of the main conflict
The falling action ties up loose ends and subplots, leading to the final resolution of the story
Tension and suspense decrease as the story moves towards its conclusion
The falling action prepares the reader for the denouement, the final outcome of the story
Denouement
The final part of the story that provides closure and resolution to the plot and character arcs
The denouement shows the new status quo and the changes that have occurred as a result of the story's events
Any remaining questions or mysteries are answered, and the characters' fates are revealed
The denouement offers a sense of catharsis and completion, leaving the reader satisfied with the story's conclusion
Save the Cat beat sheet
The is a story structure template created by screenwriter Blake Snyder, based on his analysis of successful Hollywood films
The beat sheet consists of 15 "beats" or plot points that outline the key events and turning points in a story
This structure is often used in screenwriting and novel writing to create engaging, commercially viable stories
Opening image
The first beat of the story, which sets the tone, mood, and style of the narrative
Often a visual representation of the protagonist's world or the central of the story
Establishes the status quo and the world of the story before the main conflict arises
Theme stated
A moment early in the story where the central theme or message is hinted at or explicitly stated
Often delivered through dialogue, action, or a symbolic event
Foreshadows the protagonist's journey and the lessons they will learn
Setup
The part of the story that introduces the main characters, their world, and their goals or desires
Establishes the protagonist's initial problem or challenge, which will later escalate into the main conflict
Provides necessary background information and context for understanding the story
Catalyst
An event or turning point that disrupts the status quo and sets the story in motion
Often an unexpected or surprising moment that forces the protagonist to take action or make a decision
The propels the protagonist into the main conflict and marks the beginning of their journey
Debate
A period of uncertainty or hesitation where the protagonist grapples with the challenge presented by the catalyst
The protagonist weighs their options, considers the risks and rewards, and decides on a course of action
This beat adds depth to the protagonist's character and raises the stakes for their journey
Break into act two
The moment when the protagonist fully commits to the journey and enters the main conflict of the story
Often a point of no return, where the protagonist leaves their comfort zone and faces new challenges
Marks the end of the setup and the beginning of the confrontation
B story
A secondary plotline that runs parallel to the main story, often involving supporting characters or subplots
The provides contrast, comic relief, or thematic resonance to the main plot
Often involves a romance, a friendship, or a personal journey that intersects with the protagonist's story
Fun and games
A series of entertaining, lighthearted, or action-packed scenes that showcase the protagonist's newfound skills or abilities
Provides a break from the main conflict and allows the audience to enjoy the protagonist's journey
Often includes humorous or playful moments that deepen the characters' relationships
Midpoint
The central turning point of the story, where the protagonist faces a major challenge or revelation that raises the stakes
Often a false victory or a false defeat, which changes the direction of the story and the protagonist's understanding of the conflict
The marks the shift from reaction to action, as the protagonist becomes more proactive in pursuing their goal
Bad guys close in
A period of increasing pressure and danger, where the antagonist or opposing force gains the upper hand
The protagonist faces setbacks, obstacles, and personal challenges that test their resolve and abilities
This beat heightens the tension and suspense, leading to the "" moment
All is lost
The lowest point in the story, where the protagonist faces their greatest challenge or loss
Often a moment of despair, where the protagonist's goal seems impossible or their world is shattered
This beat is a turning point that forces the protagonist to confront their fears, flaws, or weaknesses
Dark night of the soul
A period of introspection and reflection, where the protagonist grapples with the implications of the "all is lost" moment
The protagonist faces their inner demons, doubts, and regrets, and must find the strength to continue their journey
This beat is a moment of transformation, where the protagonist learns a valuable lesson or gains a new perspective
Break into act three
The moment when the protagonist emerges from the "" with renewed purpose and determination
Armed with newfound knowledge or resources, the protagonist devises a plan to confront the antagonist and resolve the main conflict
This beat marks the beginning of the final act and the protagonist's ultimate push towards their goal
Finale
The climactic sequence where the protagonist confronts the antagonist and resolves the main conflict
Often a high-stakes, action-packed, or emotionally charged moment that tests the protagonist's growth and determination
The brings together all the plotlines and character arcs, leading to the resolution of the story
Final image
The last beat of the story, which shows the new status quo and the consequences of the protagonist's journey
Often a visual representation of the protagonist's growth, success, or transformation
Provides closure and satisfaction for the audience, leaving them with a lasting impression of the story's themes and messages
In medias res
is a narrative technique where the story begins in the middle of the action, rather than at the beginning
The term is Latin for "in the midst of things," referring to the story starting in the middle of the plot
This technique is often used to grab the audience's attention, create intrigue, or provide a sense of immediacy
Beginning in the middle
Stories that use in medias res start with a dramatic, action-packed, or emotionally charged scene
The opening scene often depicts a critical moment in the story, such as a conflict, a turning point, or a moment of high stakes
By starting in the middle of the action, the writer creates a sense of urgency and engagement for the audience
Flashbacks vs linear storytelling
Stories that begin in medias res often use flashbacks to provide context, background information, and character development
Flashbacks allow the writer to explore the events leading up to the opening scene, filling in the gaps and deepening the audience's understanding of the story
In contrast, linear storytelling presents the events of the story in chronological order, from beginning to end
While in medias res relies on flashbacks to provide context, linear storytelling allows for a more straightforward, cause-and-effect narrative structure
Comparing narrative structures
Narrative structures provide frameworks for organizing and presenting stories in engaging, meaningful ways
While each structure has its unique features and emphases, there are commonalities and differences between them
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different narrative structures can help writers choose the most effective approach for their stories
Similarities across frameworks
Most narrative structures include a beginning, middle, and end, which correspond to the setup, confrontation, and resolution of the story
Conflict and character development are central to all narrative structures, as they drive the plot and engage the audience
Turning points, such as the inciting incident, midpoint, and climax, are common features that propel the story forward and raise the stakes
Differences between approaches
Some structures, like the Hero's Journey and Save the Cat, are more detailed and prescriptive, outlining specific plot points and character arcs
Other structures, like the three-act structure and Freytag's pyramid, are more general and adaptable to different genres and styles
The emphasis on certain elements, such as the B story or the theme, varies between structures
Strengths and weaknesses
Detailed structures like the Hero's Journey and Save the Cat can provide a clear roadmap for writers, but may feel formulaic or restrictive if followed too rigidly
More general structures like the three-act structure and Freytag's pyramid allow for greater flexibility and creativity, but may require more effort to develop a cohesive, compelling story
Unconventional techniques like in medias res can create immediate engagement and intrigue, but may be challenging to execute effectively without confusing or alienating the audience
Narrative structures in corporate communication
Narrative structures are not limited to fiction; they can also be applied to corporate communication to create compelling, persuasive messages
By using storytelling techniques and frameworks, companies can engage their audiences, communicate their values, and differentiate themselves from competitors
Effective corporate storytelling can help build brand loyalty, inspire employees, and drive business results
Crafting compelling brand stories
Companies can use narrative structures to create brand stories that communicate their unique identity, purpose, and values
A well-crafted brand story can humanize the company, create emotional connections with customers, and differentiate the brand from competitors
By using techniques like the Hero's Journey or the three-act structure, companies can create brand stories that are memorable, authentic, and inspiring
Structuring presentations and pitches
Narrative structures can be used to create engaging, persuasive presentations and pitches
By organizing information into a clear beginning, middle, and end, presenters can guide their audience through a logical, compelling argument