Many of the gods of the world’s ancient religions began their lives as heroes capable of great feats of strength or skill. The Hero is also a classic figure in ancient Greek and Roman literature, often portrayed as one who must confront an increasingly difficult path of obstacles in order to birth his manhood. Today this archetype holds a dominant position in the social mind as an icon of both male and female power, from the superheroes of comic books, such as Superman and Wonder Woman, to television and countless movies and popular novels. In the classic Hero’s Journey, defined by Joseph Campbell and others, an individual goes on a journey of initiation to awaken an inner knowing or spiritual power. The Self emerges as the Hero faces physical and internal obstacles, confronting the survival fears that would compromise his journey of empowerment and conquering the forces arrayed against him. The Hero then returns to the tribe with something of great value to all. Although the hero’s journey has been associated with men in literature, the hero’s journey is as much a part of a woman’s life.
The hero’s journey involves taking your spirit on a walkabout to develop its stamina. It is about earning initiation, which can only be done alone through facing the elements and forces in the universe that terrify you, that would make you sell or compromise your soul. The manner in which the Hero uses his physical power is a reflection of the spirit of the Hero, represented through authentic acts of heroism. You will know when you are called to your hero’s journey—it is when you are called to face something that requires all the guts and courage you have and you are alone.
From a shadow perspective, the Hero seeks empowerment through the disempowerment of others.
Film Reference: Kevin Costner in 'The Postman'
The hero’s journey involves taking your spirit on a walkabout to develop its stamina. It is about earning initiation, which can only be done alone through facing the elements and forces in the universe that terrify you, that would make you sell or compromise your soul. The manner in which the Hero uses his physical power is a reflection of the spirit of the Hero, represented through authentic acts of heroism. You will know when you are called to your hero’s journey—it is when you are called to face something that requires all the guts and courage you have and you are alone.
From a shadow perspective, the Hero seeks empowerment through the disempowerment of others.
Film Reference: Kevin Costner in 'The Postman'