captain america hero's journey

DreadPennies: The Mind of Graham Bradley

Dedicated to the Endless Pursuit of Imagination

Captain America and The Hero’s Journey

Now that  Avengers: Endgame  has destroyed the entire worldwide box office, it’s time to complete an analysis that I’ve been looking forward to for a while.

Joseph Campbell’s monomyth, called The Hero’s Journey, is a storytelling pattern that is found all over the world, in all time periods. The story of Captain America follows it with admirable fidelity throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Granted there are a few deviations–the story was handled by numerous writers and directors, as well as the creative director–but the steps are there, some of them more prominent than others. There were also some clever turns where the steps were presented out of order, or with roles reversed, as you’ll see. 

Here is a link to the Wikipedia article for the Journey , with details of each step. I will present them here out of order with regard to Campbell’s monomyth, but the steps will follow the order of Steve Rogers’ experiences in the films.

Here we go!

1: Call to Adventure

In this case the adventure is World War II. More to the point, the call hits Steve head-on when his best friend, Bucky, gets deployed, and Steve can’t follow him.

2: Refusal of the Call

Steve of course didn’t refuse the call, but we can say that it refused him . Physically he couldn’t hack it, no matter how many times he applied. He had too many health issues. His persistence is a demonstration of his inner values, which is what land the attention of a certain scientist…

3: Meeting the Mentor

The mentor in this case was Dr. Abraham Erskine. He cleared Steve for Army training, giving him a 1A status, despite all his previous failures. Erskine later gave Steve his superpowers, but more importantly, he gave him a guiding philosophy: be good, and do good.

4: Crossing the First Threshold

Getting his powers was only one part of this step. He showed he could do the job when he ran down a Hydra agent and tore him out of a submarine with his bare hands. The real challenge was being taken seriously by the Army. The program didn’t go as planned, so the brass immediately discarded him. Steve had to show them why they should let him fight. So he went out to rescue Bucky and the others. He led the Howling Commandos into battle across the world. He fought Red Skull. All of these were stepping stones of increasing difficulty, proving to himself and to others that he could be The Captain.

5: The Woman as Temptress

In Campbell’s monomyth, this step on the journey is often a symbol of the hero being tempted by his baser instincts, instead of holding to a higher moral code. Steve’s responses to temptation are largely played for comic relief, especially in the first movie with this throwaway scene featuring Natalie Dormer–who, by the way, would have made a much better Captain Marvel than Brie Larson.

Despite all the women willing to leap into his arms, we’ll see in the end that Cap is a good man with a loyal heart. Even with Black Widow trying to set him up on a ton of dates, or have him engage in performative PDA for a mission, he’s reluctant.

Steve’s temptation isn’t something as simple as getting hot and bothered over a pretty woman. His real weakness, his real “baser instinct,” is a small shred of selfishness–if you can even call it that–that makes him miss his own time and his own people.

It’s the pending revelations about Bucky that blow that wide open, later on.

6: Meeting with the Goddess

Obviously his one-and-only is Peggy, with the exception of a single kiss to her niece shortly after Steve attends Peggy’s funeral. Later, when he has the chance to take the life that he always wanted with her–to give her that one dance–his loyalty comes full circle.

Just like a compass.

And of course, at this juncture he meets a few more helpers along the way.

7: Belly of the Whale/Death and Rebirth

This is one of the steps that is broken up across a couple of the movies. Obviously he enters the “belly of the whale” when he has to crash Red Skull’s bomber at the end of  The First Avenger.  Here, he receives a symbolic death.

Likewise he gets a symbolic rebirth in  Avengers,  but the process isn’t entirely complete. Not yet. Still a few kinks to work out…

8: Road of Trials

In Avengers, the trial is coming to grips with the fact that he is 70 years removed from his own time, and most of the people he has ever known are probably dead. He figures out how to keep fighting evil in the present, and just as soon as he gets a grip on that, the past comes back to attack him with a vengeance. This will factor heavily into future temptations…

That said, he isn’t without sexy new helpers on the way!

9: Atonement/Abyss/Completes the rebirth

It would take too many GIFs to illustrate this phase, but most of the “Abyss/Rebirth” happens in  The Winter Soldier,  where Steve realizes he is fighting a war on two fronts, against an enemy that is far too close to home. His rebirth is completed when SHIELD is in ruins, the director had to fake his death, and the only people Steve can trust are Falcon, Black Widow, Maria Hill, and Nick Fury. This is the moment when he truly becomes The Captain.

10: Apotheosis

Predictably, leadership isn’t without its burdens, and one of the first signs of a rift between Steve and Tony comes in  Age of Ultron,  when Steve disagrees with Tony’s plan to protect the whole world. This ends with Ultron dropping a city out of orbit, killing countless people, something Tony will probably have on his conscience for a while. As a result, Tony semi-retires from the Avengers, leaving Steve in charge of it all.

11: Ultimate Boon

What’s the ultimate boon for a man out of time, whose only remaining friend is still out there, and can probably be rescued?

It’s a question that answers itself. But it’s not without a whole boatload of problems, especially when Bucky was just framed for a terrorist attack that killed the king of Wakanda. Yes, Bucky is Steve’s boon, his only remaining link to the era he is truly from. Really, Bucky is Steve’s inspiration for going on this journey to begin with, as Steve pursued it aggressively once Bucky shipped out. He  had  to go save his friend.

No matter the cost…?

12: Refusal of the Return

Now the small cracks start to widen into fissures. Steve has ascended to the level of Captain America, leader of the Avengers, Earth’s mightiest heroes…and wouldn’t you know it, the governments of the world want to put a leash on him. Reduce him to the status of a simple–albeit effective–soldier like he was back in World War II.

There was a time when he would have wanted that.

But now, with everything that’s on the table–not the least of which is the truth about Bucky–he can’t go back to the way things were.

“The safest hands are still our own.”

13: Magic Flight

Once again, Bucky factors heavily into this step of the Journey, though we get a healthy dose of “fight” with our “flight.” In the end they get some help from another kind of ‘magic,’ this time from T’Challa.

14: Rescue from Without

Hoo boy. How many times does he need help from other people? It does happen plenty. Maria Hill rescues him from Hydra in The Winter Soldier. Agent 13 brings him his gear in Civil War. T’Challa takes him to Wakanda.

And of course, in Endgame, Dr. Strange and Falcon come to his rescue, just as a broken Captain America is facing Thanos and his entire army.

15: Crossing the Return Threshold

The fact that Steve is not a product of our time never truly escapes his attention, or that of the audience. Thus his return can never really be to a physical place, but rather a chronological one. “Old Man Steve” had been drawn a number of times in the comics, and I tell you what, seeing it on screen was a real treat.

Yes. In a way, he goes back.

16: Master of Two Worlds

More important than just returning to his time, he ends up living the life he wanted, the life he fought so long and hard to have. He mastered the role of Captain America, leader of the Avengers, just as surely as he mastered the life of a married man to Peggy Carter.

17: Freedom to Live

He took this one for himself at the very end of  Endgame.  It was a conscious choice as he time-traveled through the Quantum Realm, deciding not to hit his target mark and instead return as a 100 year-old man. He had the freedom to do so. His mission was complete. His work was done. The most powerful evil in the universe was defeated.

And he could rest.

Post-script: a personal theory about Cap’s worthiness to wield Mjolnir.

We’re not given exact specs on what makes some worthy to pick up Thor’s hammer. I get the impression Thor’s worthiness has a little to do with his bloodline, because he really lets himself go in  Endgame  and is still able to carry Mjolnir.

And of course, in the comics Cap was able to use it a couple of times, but in the movies they established that he couldn’t.

Here’s my theory, as I posted on Instagram last month:

I don’t expect this was what Marvel/Whedon intended with showing this, it is more my own interpretation of events.

We know Cap has unassailable character. He fought SHIELD and Hydra at the same time in order to stand up for what was right.

So why couldn’t he lift Thor’s hammer? By what metric was he less worthy than Thor? Obviously perfection wasn’t the standard–Cap and Thor both had mistakes in their past to some degree. What was it, then?

Go back to “The Winter Soldier.” Go to the bunker at Camp Lehigh, where Steve and Natasha find the digital consciousness of Dr. Zola, who tells them the long and sordid history of SHIELD and Hydra.

One of the flashing headlines in the newsreel is that Howard Stark was killed. The fact that Zola showed this to Cap is not insignificant. Hydra was taking credit for it.

Later in “Civil War”, Tony would see the video of Bucky executing the Starks. Tony would ask Cap if he knew about it.

Cap’s silence all but confirmed it, along with the asterisk of “I didn’t know it was him.”

But somewhere along the line, I think Steve put it all together.

And he didn’t tell Tony.

Given the events of  Civil War  and  Endgame,  which were dripping with themes about atonement, I think it’s safe to say that Steve finally cleared the air with Tony over what he knew about Bucky. Tony forgave him. They moved past it. And once that was done, once he could truly be open and honest with someone he had come to rely on as a friend and comrade-at-arms, he became worthy to use Mjolnir.

And lo, it was awesome to behold.

Thanks for reading to the end, everyone. Let me know your thoughts on this, and tell me if I missed anything.

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Author: grahambradley

Writer, illustrator, reader, truck driver. View all posts by grahambradley

3 thoughts on “Captain America and The Hero’s Journey”

I appreciate you doing this it really helped me understand what’s going on. I think I saw some of these out of order and half the time couldn’t remember some of it. I do love the Marvel movies though and really looking forward to End Game.

Total rabbit trail but …”featuring Natalie Dormer–who, by the way, would have made a much better Captain Marvel than Brie Larson” you can’t say that and then leave me hanging! Why?

Because she is a better actress.

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From Paper to Film: The Captivating Evolution of Captain America

Captain America is a beloved superhero who has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, this iconic character made his debut in 1941 and has since become a symbol of patriotism, justice, and heroism. In this article, we will delve into the captivating history of Captain America, tracing his journey from the pages of comic books to the silver screen.

Dive into the fascinating journey of Captain America, a symbol of patriotism, justice, and heroism. From his creation in the 1940s to his modern-day adventures in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, discover how this iconic superhero has captured the hearts of millions around the world.

The Birth of Captain America : Born out of the desire to create a patriotic superhero who could inspire and uplift readers during the dark days of World War II. In March 1941, Captain America Comics #1 hit the stands, introducing the world to Steve Rogers, a scrawny young man who transformed into a super-soldier thanks to the experimental Super-Soldier Serum. With his iconic shield and unwavering sense of justice, Captain America quickly became a symbol of hope for Americans and a beacon of resistance against the Axis powers.

The Golden Age of Captain America : During the Golden Age of comics, Captain America soared in popularity, captivating readers with his thrilling adventures. His comic book series became a best-seller, and his patriotic fervor resonated with a nation at war. Captain America’s stories often depicted him fighting against Nazi spies, saboteurs, and supervillains, embodying the ideals of bravery, honor, and sacrifice. His popularity extended beyond the pages of comic books, with Captain America becoming a cultural icon and a symbol of American resilience.

The Evolution of Captain America : As the years went by, Captain America underwent various transformations, reflecting the changing landscape of American society. In the 1950s, during the Cold War era, Captain America took a hiatus, only to be revived in the 1960s by Marvel Comics. This revival saw Captain America grappling with contemporary issues such as civil rights, social inequality, and the Vietnam War. The character’s struggles mirrored those of the American people, making him relatable and relevant.

Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe : In 2011, Captain America made his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with “Captain America: The First Avenger.” Played by Chris Evans, the character was brought to life on the big screen, captivating audiences worldwide. The success of the film led to Captain America becoming a central figure in the MCU, with subsequent appearances in “The Avengers” series and his own standalone films. The character’s portrayal by Evans resonated with fans, solidifying Captain America’s status as a cinematic icon.

Captain America’s journey from comic book hero to cinematic icon is a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved character. From his humble beginnings in the 1940s to his modern-day adventures in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Captain America has captured the imagination of generations. Whether in the pages of a comic book or on the silver screen, Captain America continues to inspire and remind us of the power of heroism, justice, and the indomitable spirit of the American people.

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• Culture , Entertainment , Lifestyle , Style
• November 19, 2023

Captain America Movies: Hero’s Evolution

The Captain America movies have carved an indelible mark on not just the superhero genre, but on modern cinema as a whole, painting a picture of a hero’s journey that has resonated with fans across the globe. As we delve into the onscreen evolution of this Super Soldier, we trace the journey from his comic book origins to the iconic portrayal by Chris Evans as Captain America that stirred moviegoers and became a cultural phenomenon.

The Onscreen Journey of a Super Soldier in Captain America Movies

Marvel studios’ captain america the first avenger.

Marvel Studios’ Captain America: The First Avenger rockets viewers back to the origins of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, in the midst of World War II, where a determined Steve Rogers is transformed from a frail young man into the world’s first super soldier. This epic action-packed film follows the transformative journey of Rogers, played by Chris Evans, as he takes on the mantle of Captain America and strives to defeat the Axis powers, including the nefarious Hydra organization and its menacing leader, Johann Schmidt, also known as the Red Skull. The movie blends historical fiction with a superhero narrative, delivering a cinematic experience filled with bold heroics, gripping storytelling, and stunning visual effects.

The First Avenger is not just a war story but a tale of personal growth, as Steve Rogers deals with the complexities of becoming a symbol of hope and facing the challenge of living up to his new role. The film also introduces viewers to the wider Marvel Universe through significant characters like Peggy Carter, played by Hayley Atwell, and Howard Stark, portrayed by Dominic Cooper, who play pivotal roles in shaping the hero’s journey and the future of the Avenger’s initiative. With a blend of patriotism and moral resolve, Captain America navigates the treacherous waters of war and espionage, laying down the foundation for his character’s future appearances and the overarching narrative of the MCU.

Behind the scenes, award-winning director Joe Johnston masterfully orchestrates the origin story of the iconic shield-bearing hero, bringing a unique mix of 1940s ambiance and modern superhero dynamics. The movie not only pays homage to the classic comic book lore but also forges a clear path for the interconnected stories that will follow in subsequent Marvel Studios releases. Enthusiasts are treated to a feature replete with Easter eggs, foreshadowing, and the hallmark post-credits scene, stirring excitement for the ensemble adventures that await. “Marvel Studios’ Captain America: The First Avenger” is a poignant, entertaining stepping stone that lays the groundwork for Marvel’s future cinematic endeavors while providing a thrilling standalone experience.

Emergence of a Patriotic Icon: The Birth of Chris Evans’ Captain America

Ah, the early days, when Captain America movies were just a twinkle in Marvel’s eye – who would’ve thought it’d turn into this colossal cinematic juggernaut, right? It all started with the vintage comic books of the 1940s, where a scrawny but scrappy Steve Rogers transformed into the star-spangled man with a plan. Fast forward to the 21st century, and fans nearly dropped their popcorn when Chris Evans was announced to don the shield. “The Human Torch? No way!”, they cried, skeptical yet intrigued by this casting curveball.

But boy, did Evans flip the script with “Captain America: The First Avenger.” It wasn’t just about the bicep that broke the internet (although, kudos, Chris). It was the depth – the soulful eyes revealing a deep well of integrity and perseverance. This wasn’t just your run-of-the-mill flag-waver; this was a man battling with the weight of the world, and destiny, on his admirably broad shoulders.

Chris Evans Shapes a Hero: Development across the Marvel Cinematic Universe

Chris Evans’ embodiment of Steve Rogers/Captain America was like watching a master sculptor at work – every film added more definition, more complexity. From the guy who could do this all day in “The Avengers” to his clash with governance in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” Evans showed a man whose moral compass was as unyielding as his vibranium shield.

In “Captain America: Civil War,” we saw a hero torn between loyalty and duty, his steadfast values brushing up against a world painted in shades of gray. Thanks to Chris Evans, Captain America wasn’t just a hero; he became a beacon of the struggles inherent in the pursuit of righteousness.

The Depth of Patriotism: Exploring Themes in Captain America Movies

Talk about timely – the Captain America movies strut down the runway of contemporary issues with swagger, diving into patriotism with both eyes open. Each movie snapshot echoed the era’s political and cultural heartbeat, striking chords with audiences from every corner of the planet. Whether it was tackling surveillance paranoia or government overreach, Captain America’s battles weren’t just physical. They were ideological, and folks, that resonates like a shield slam on vibranium.

Allies and Adversaries: Relationships That Define a Hero

Now, a hero is only as good as the company he keeps, and Captain America rolled deep with some heavy hitters. From the brooding bromance with Bucky Barnes to the will-they-won’t-they dance with Black Widow (whose portrayal by Scarlett Johansson left us all a little lovesick), these relationships shaped Cap’s journey in ways that went beyond a punch-up in an alley.

But let’s not forget the clash of egos with Iron Man, talk about a family squabble amped up to eleven! Evans’ chemistry with his co-stars was so on point, it leapt off the screen and smacked you right in the feels – evidence that behind every great hero, there’s a squad that’s even greater.

Marvel’s Captain America One Two Three Complete DVD Movie Set Includes Captain America Decal

Immerse yourself in the epic saga of Marvel’s ultimate patriot with the Captain America One Two Three Complete DVD Movie Set. This must-have collection brings together “Captain America: The First Avenger,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” and “Captain America: Civil War,” allowing fans to experience the journey of Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) from his humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of the Avengers. The set is presented in stunning DVD quality, ensuring that every high-octane battle and dramatic moment is captured with crystal-clear precision. Not only does this collection provide back-to-back entertainment, but it also allows for a deeper appreciation of the character’s evolution throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Enhance your Marvel collection with this comprehensive set, all housed in a sleek and collectible packaging that showcases the iconic red, white, and blue of the hero’s shield. Each movie comes loaded with a plethora of special features that dive into the making of these blockbuster films, including behind-the-scenes footage, director’s commentary, deleted scenes, and exclusive interviews with cast and crew. These bonus materials provide an insider’s look at the immense effort that goes into bringing the legendary comic book character to life. Fans will revel in hours of additional content that enriches the viewing experience and pays tribute to the legacy of Captain America.

As a special bonus, this set includes an exclusive Captain America decal, perfect for displaying your superhero allegiance on laptops, tablets, or car windows. The decal is crafted with durable materials ensuring it stands up to the test of time, just like the hero it represents. It adds a touch of Marvel magic to any surface and is certain to be a conversation starter among fellow enthusiasts. Owning the Captain America One Two Three Complete DVD Movie Set is an opportunity for fans to hold a piece of cinematic history, while the decal lets them bring a piece of that history into their everyday lives.

From Soldier to Legend: Chris Evans’ Performance Evolution

Tracking the growth of Chris Evans from “just a kid from Brooklyn” to the embodiment of a legend, we saw an actor rise to the occasion, film after film. Fans and critics alike tipped their hats, with the roar in the theaters as deafening as Cap’s shield quelling a cosmic conqueror.

And talk about aging like a fine Scotch – Evans added layers of wisdom, weariness, and warmth to Steve Rogers as the saga unfolded, a reflection not just of time but of the experiences etched into the character’s psyche.

Battles Beyond the Shield: Crucial Conflicts in Captain America’s Saga

The Captain America movies didn’t just serve up fights – they dished out narrative milestones. Take the elevator scene in “The Winter Soldier” or the clash with Iron Man in “Civil War”. These weren’t just set pieces; they were emotional crucibles, testing and tempering the mettle of our dear Cap.

Evans swung, kicked, and punched through these moments with a dancer’s grace and a warrior’s grit, showing us that sometimes, the evolution of a hero is spelled out in bruises – both physical and emotional.

Legacy of the Shield: Captain America’s Influence on Future MCU Directions

We all needed a minute when the shield was passed in “Avengers: Endgame.” That handover wasn’t just a prop swap – it was the signaling of a new dawn, the kind that makes you sweat from both excitement and fear (kind of like that sweat meme ). With Captain America 4 penned in for a Valentine’s date in 2025, the speculation game is hotter than ever. Who’ll wield the shield? What trials await? One thing’s certain – the legacy left by Chris Evans’ Captain America paves a road rich with potential.

Behind the Shield: Insights into Chris Evans’ Creative Process

Earning your stripes to play an icon isn’t just hitting the gym till you rival Greek statuary – just ask Chris Evans. The prep was Herculean , from weighty tomes on World War II to crash-courses in shield-slinging. Fun fact: Did you know they had special magnetic shields so it would snap back like a boomerang onto Evans’ arm? Movie magic, folks!

Audience and Critical Acclaim: The Impact of Captain America Movies

From crushing box office records to swarming streaming services, Captain America wielded more than a shield – he wielded massive audience appeal. Award nods and wins aside, you could pen tomes on the cultural impact these movies had – from playground chants to scholarly debates, Cap’s influence is undeniable.

Unmasking the Hero: Chris Evans Beyond the Captain America Role

Evans may have hung up the stars and stripes, but his foray into other realms has been anything but deficient . From playing dodgy lawyers to voicing animated charm, he’s shown layers and range that demonstrate his journey as an actor hasn’t reached sunset.

Captain America [Blu ray] [Region Free]

The Captain America [Blu-ray] [Region Free] is the perfect addition to any Marvel fan’s collection, offering a high-definition viewing experience for one of the most celebrated superhero films of all time. This Blu-ray edition boasts a pristine 1080p transfer that brings the vibrant world of Captain America to life with incredible detail and clarity. Special features include behind-the-scenes documentaries, director’s commentary, and deleted scenes, adding depth and insight into the making of this cinematic gem.

This Region Free version of the film allows fans around the globe to enjoy the first avenger’s origin story without the limitations of regional coding, ensuring compatibility with any Blu-ray player regardless of location. The audio experience is equally gratifying, with a choice of Dolby Digital and DTS-HD Master Audio tracks that envelop the viewer in the epic soundscape of battles and heroic anthems. Subtitles are available in multiple languages, making the film accessible to a wide audience.

Captain America [Blu-ray] [Region Free] is not just a movie; it’s a collector’s item that serves as a tribute to the timeless character created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby. This edition’s stunning packaging design features iconic artwork, making it a standout display piece in anyone’s home entertainment library. Whether you’re a dedicated Marvel enthusiast or just love action-packed adventures, this Blu-ray is a must-have, delivering non-stop entertainment and the unbeatable charm of Steve Rogers’s journey to becoming Captain America.

A New Era Dawns: What Lies Ahead for Captain America in Front of the Camera

With Cap’s story evolving, Marvel’s playing its vintage game of cards close to the chest. We’ve got casting rumors thicker than thieves at a grand heist and plot speculations that’ll make your head spin. But with alternate takes and a multiverse of madness in the mix, the door’s swung wide open for a swanky blend of old school cool and fresh-face boldness.

Charting the Hero’s Ascent: Reflecting on Chris Evans’ Tenure as Captain America

So, let’s raise a glass to Chris Evans, a man who made us believe a kid from Brooklyn could do more than sock old Adolf on the jaw. He could inspire, resonate, and evolve in a story woven into pop culture’s tapestry. As the MCU turns the page to the next chapter, Captain America’s spirit – immortalized by Evans – will continue to ripple through its tales, a legacy both powerful and profoundly human.

Captain America The Winter Soldier

Captain America: The Winter Soldier is an exhilarating addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, offering audiences a blend of superhero action and sophisticated espionage. In this gripping sequel to Captain America: The First Avenger, Steve Rogers, also known as Captain America, grapples with the complexities of modernity and the secrets buried within his own organization, S.H.I.E.L.D. Confronting formidable adversaries and unearthing a vast conspiracy, Captain America teams up with the Black Widow and the Falcon to expose the truth. This film elevates the genre with its thought-provoking narrative and stunning set pieces, earning its place as a standout chapter in the Captain America saga.

The Winter Soldier serves not only as a formidable foe with a mysterious connection to Captain America’s past but also as a symbol of the blurred lines between friend and foe in a world of shadowy morals. The film delves deeper into Steve Rogers’ character, exploring his adjustment to the 21st century and his unwavering commitment to his ideals, even when they seem out of place in a complex geopolitical landscape. With intense hand-to-hand combat sequences and high-octane chases, the action in The Winter Soldier is grounded and visceral, setting a new standard for realism in superhero cinema. The interplay between characters introduces a layer of depth and camaraderie that adds emotional weight to the pulse-pounding spectacle.

Visually, Captain America: The Winter Soldier is a cinematic marvel, with cutting-edge special effects that seamlessly integrate with practical stunts to deliver a more realistic and tactile experience. The film’s score complements the on-screen excitement, reinforcing the tension and drama with a powerful and memorable theme. The narrative’s twists and turns keep viewers on the edge of their seats, while the film’s critical and commercial success helped to solidify the Captain America character as a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Captain America: The Winter Soldier is not just a superhero film; it’s a modern classic that resonates with themes of trust, honor, and the enduring fight for justice.

What order do Captain America movies go in?

Hold onto your shields, folks, ’cause here’s the rundown on the Captain America movie sequence. First, you’ll want to salute “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011), then march straight into “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” (2014), and lastly charge into “Captain America: Civil War” (2016). It’s a trilogy that packs a patriotic punch!

Will there be a 4th Captain America movie?

Well, butter my popcorn and call me a super fan, ’cause rumors have been zooming around faster than a Quinjet about a 4th Captain America flick. While nothing’s set in Vibranium just yet, the Marvel Cinematic Universe is always full of surprises. So, who knows? We might just see our star-spangled man with a plan make a comeback.

What is Black Widow’s real name?

Hold your horses, Marvel mavens! Black Widow, aka the super spy with moves that kick butt, goes by the real name Natasha Romanoff. Though, if you’re feeling fancy, you can call her Natalia Alianovna Romanova—her motherland moniker.

How to watch The Avengers in order?

Wanna watch The Avengers throw down and save the day in all the right order? Whoa, partner, it’s a marathon, not a sprint! Start with “Iron Man” (2008), and follow the breadcrumbs through the MCU all the way to “Avengers: Endgame” (2019)—and don’t forget those post-credits scenes; they’re the icing on the cake.

Will Chris Evans return as Captain America?

The buzz around the beehive is that Chris Evans hung up his shield, but in Hollywood, you never say never. While whispers of him strapping on the stars and stripes again are floating around, nothing’s written in stone. Fans might just have to cross their fingers and hope for a heroic return.

Which movie came out after Captain America The First Avenger?

After Steve Rogers beefed up and socked old Adolf on the jaw in “Captain America: The First Avenger,” the next movie to burst onto the scene was “The Avengers” (2012). Talk about going from war bonds to world-saving—what a leap!

Does Chris Evans have a wife?

Is Chris Evans hitched? Nope, he’s flying solo—no official Mrs. Captain America just yet. This Boston-bred heartthrob has kept his personal life as undercover as a mission from S.H.I.E.L.D., so the tabloids can keep on guessing.

What is Chris Evans age?

Chris Evans, born on June 13, 1981, is the walking, talking embodiment of fine wine theory—just keeps getting better. Do the math, and he’s parked at 41 years young, and still making hearts race faster than a speeding bullet.

Will there be a Thor 5?

As for “Thor 5,” it’s true that Marvel fans have an appetite that’s harder to satisfy than Thor at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Though “Thor: Love and Thunder” (2022) was the latest romp with our hammer-wielding hero, Marvel’s been zipped up tighter than a Stark suit on whether we’ll get another. Stay tuned!

Who killed Black Widow?

Who killed Black Widow, you ask? Well, brace yourself for a tearjerker. It was a sacrificial swan dive on Vormir that did her in, all to snag the Soul Stone in “Avengers: Endgame.” Not so much a “who” as a heartbreaking “why.”

Who is the strongest Avenger?

Ready for a heavyweight title bout? The strongest Avenger debate gets fans more riled up than a bag of cats at a dog show. Conventional wisdom might point to Hulk for sheer muscle, or Thor for godly brawn, but hey, don’t count out Captain Marvel—she’s got power to spare!

Why doesn’t Natasha go by Natalia?

Natasha doesn’t go by Natalia, you say? Well, it’s like this—when you’re an undercover super-spy woven into the fabric of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, sometimes it pays to blend in with a name that doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. Natasha’s just a tad more low-profile for her line of work, you dig?

Is Deadpool Marvel or DC?

Is Deadpool a Marvel character or DC? Look, I know it’s easy to get your super-folks mixed up, but Deadpool is as Marvel as Spidey’s web-slinging. He’s the wise-cracking, fourth-wall-breaking antihero in red spandex that could only fit in with the Marvel crew.

What is the first Marvel movie ever made?

Dialing the clock back, the first Marvel movie to ever hit the big screen was “Howard the Duck” (1986)—a wacky, feather-ruffling adventure that’s more infamous than famous. Just don’t expect the high-octane spectacle we know from today’s Marvel flicks; it’s a different beast!

Which movie to start Avengers?

Which movie to kickstart your Avengers cinematic rollercoaster? It’s “Iron Man” (2008) that ignites the engine and sends you zooming through the Marvel Universe. Tony Stark’s iron-clad debut is where the magic begins and the gateway to your Avengers obsession. Strap in!

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Comic Book Herald

A Comic Book Reading Order Guide For Beginners & Fans

Captain America: The First Avenger – Assembling a Timeless Hero

May 20, 2020 by Matt Draper 1 Comment

There’s a romantic idealism at the center of Captain America. A figure who’s both a relic of the past and a timeless source of inspiration across generations. And while longtime readers have loved Captain America for decades, one film bridged past and present to set the hero on the big screen adventure of a lifetime.

The First Avenger is the second lowest grossing entry in the entire MCU franchise and one whose small charms and limited action feel miniscule compared to the high budget bombast of later films. But Cap’s debut stands as one of the great examples of a superhero movie that understands the essence of its central character and works to both stay true to his origins and transcend them for a modern audience.

There’s something inherently romantic to director Joe Johnston’s film about the mythic rise of someone who can save the world but who still retains his humanity and emotional vulnerability. What Johnston and writers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely create with Chris Evans in the title role is a heroic ideal grounded in a nostalgic view of the past, but one that doesn’t feel out of step with what can inspire and comfort us today.

From its classic sense of adventure to its formation of the fundamental nature of its hero, Captain America: The First Avenger stands as one of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s best films and sets the stage for a hero’s nearly decade-long journey.

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Creating an Ideal Hero for Today

Superheroes are symbols. There’s an iconography at the center of each successful character’s essence that stands for something greater, but that is malleable enough to be reinterpreted again and again as the years pass. All heroes are fundamentally about common people taking what abilities and opportunities they’re given and using them to make a difference. Captain America was created quite literally as a symbol by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby in 1940, being used as an ideal of American strength in the time leading up to World War II to both take advantage of the brewing wartime climate and to be used as propaganda for US troops.

“Everybody was patriotic and it was ridiculous not to do Captain America,” said Simon. “Our job was to sell comic books, and we did.”

Captain America is directly connected to the battle against Nazi Germany, but there’s something inherently larger than life about the character in both comics and film. Steve Rogers is a scrawny young man turned into the peak of human possibility, encapsulating everything that his creators and the United States at the time wished they could be.

“Captain America was myself,” said Jack Kirby. “Captain America was my own anger coming to the surface and saying, ‘What if I could fight 25 guys? How would I do it?’ He was a patriot. He was a fighter. We were Americans and, in our minds, we were winners. Captain America was a winner.”

There’s a righteous anger within the character of Steve Rogers as played by Chris Evans within The First Avenger, as well. Not an anger born from resentment or injustice, but out of knowing what the right thing to do is, but not being able to do it. Johnston’s film takes us on the journey of weak, small, but morally-upright Steve Rogers gaining the ability to do what’s right and following that through with every fiber of his being. And that’s what makes Steve a good man, no matter what his body can or can’t do.

There’s a glowing, romantic swoon to The First Avenger that’s missing from most MCU movies and is the result of trying to create a film that lives within a more heightened version of the 1940s and World War II. The presence of Howard Stark and his Stark Expo show this world to have fundamentally diverged from ours much earlier than what a movie like Iron Man would have you believe. The inclusion of the Tesseract and its cosmic power right from the film’s start means that, unlike an Indiana Jones film where the mythical MacGuffin’s power is only revealed at the very end, the supernatural and sci fi are as much an intrinsic part as the old school guts and glory.

Cinematographer Shelley Johnson bathes the film in sepia tones to make it seem at times like we’re watching an aged photograph come to life. Rick Heinrichs and Daniel Simon’s production design melds the art deco of Cap’s forces with the retro futurism of Red Skull’s army. And the triumphant, horn-heavy score by Alan Silvestri feels like it comes straight out of the ‘40s.

Cap’s story has all the trappings of a classic action adventure film, moving from set piece to set piece while giving ample time to his personal relationships. Specifically, a doomed friendship with Bucky and a blossoming romance with Peggy Carter give Rogers the humanity he needs beneath the ideal physique and inspirational moral clarity.

Is The First Avenger a perfect movie? No. The present day intro and the rushed World War II montage make its act structure lumpy and keep the film from achieving the Swiss watch construction that it should have when attempting to echo the Indiana Jones films. These narrative decisions are in service of couching The First Avenger within the larger MCU, but when compared to some of the storytelling sacrifices made in other MCU films for the sake of universe building, they’re nothing.

Without these cinematic universe debts, The First Avenger would be a self-contained story of one man shouldering great power and bravely accepting its consequences. That mythic image of a great man from a simpler time is able to live on in future Captain America and Avengers films, testing him in ways that aren’t addressed in this story. But that all starts here. Without The First Avenger distilling the essence of the Captain America comic book fans have known and loved for decades, the thrills and tragedies of movies like The Winter Soldier or Endgame wouldn’t be possible.

Moving Beyond Propaganda

When asked about his aversion to depicting violence in film, French New Wave director Francois Truffaut once said, “Every film about war ends up being pro-war.” The very depiction of war having heroes and being dramatized means that, no matter how the film may comment on its content, war is inevitably positively depicted in some form.

The First Avenger is a film entrenched in war, World War II to be specific – one of the few war subjects that Hollywood has deemed to be safe or at least morally upright when choosing to depict. And Captain America’s permanent association with World War II makes him one of the easier propaganda-born comic characters to keep relevant. Imagine Cap being a rah-rah pro-America symbol born from Vietnam or the Iraq War, and you can see how sticky the situation would immediately get.

No matter what has been done with Cap in the decades since his creation by Simon and Kirby, this pro-America aspect will always be an intrinsic part of the character’s DNA. So to both address and subvert this, Captain America is used as literal propaganda within The First Avenger – touring to boost bond purchases and troop morale. The idea of a man decked out in a star-spangled costume simply can’t be divorced from a pro-US, pro-war point of view. So The First Avenger must make an effort to both include and then reject this purpose.

To disconnect Captain America with overt propaganda, producer Kevin Feige and writers Markus and McFeely make the choice to disconnect Hydra with Nazis while at the same time elevating Cap’s conflict beyond conventional warfare. The Red Skull and his organization begin under Hitler’s regime but almost immediately become a splinter group, with the Skull basically being a Nazi outcast and a threat to their power. Yes, the film still has that wonderful montage of Cap punching out Hitler, but every scene of battle features The First Avenger fighting the outsized and exaggerated forces of Hydra. Those Hydra forces pilot mega-sized tanks and shoot energy blasts instead of bullets.

You can feel Marvel Studios making a calculated change here, even in the pre-Disney days. If the entirety of The First Avenger told the tale of Cap taking down Hitler in the blood-stained and bullet-riddled towns of Western Europe, then the story would become firmly entrenched in a more historical, US-centric point of view. Take out the US vs Nazi Germany element, add in a multinational Howling Commandos team, and you get the World War II pulp heroism somewhat removed from country-specific propaganda.

We still get this kickass line though: “And they will personally escort Adolf Hitler to the gates of Hell.”

So Cap’s own war becomes disconnected from the real war and even Cap himself defects from his USO role to take his own course of action. It’s here where we can feel Marvel working to dissociate Captain America from being a paragon of his own country’s set of values and instead become an arbiter of a greater, more globally-relatable heroism. That struggle to dissociate, no small feat when you’re named after a nation, is also a long-running aspect of Cap in the comics. Steve Rogers has been shaped as his own man with his own struggles ever since Stan Lee and Jack Kirby brought him back in the Avengers, as well as through several instances of Cap becoming disillusioned with his country.

In The First Avenger, we don’t have that context yet, but we watch the film knowing this is Cap’s fate. As such, Markus, McFeely, and Johnston quickly turn Cap’s fight against the Red Skull into a timeless conflict of selfless good versus fascist evil.

Shaping a Timeless Heroism

When you feel weak, it’s only natural to gravitate toward power, either the power of a leader, like Nazi Germany and Hitler, or the search for self empowerment. But even those with strength desire greater strength. And it’s often strength for strength’s sake, not for the sake of others.

The core of Steve Rogers’ character is the search for strength in service of others. This is there from the very beginning, motivating Steve to try and enlist multiple times, to fight the bully in the alley, and to eventually be the reason Dr. Abraham Erskine chooses him for the Super Soldier experiment. There is not a selfish bone in Steve’s body and we can see a hero yearning to break free from the start.

That’s why his transformation into Captain America is more than just the thrill of seeing a massively jacked Chris Evans, although there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s the excitement of seeing someone given great power and immediately rushing to do what’s right.

The death of Erskine and his reminder of what truly makes Steve special, his heart, reminds us that the core of Captain America has always, and will always, be there.

And it’s Chris Evans who is able to fully embody that heart, turning Cap into someone equally formidable and vulnerable. It’s a critical element for not only this film, but every Captain America story from here on out in the MCU.

As pointed out by Johnston, “Steve Rogers is a guy who, at the heart of it, has a very simple mission. He just wants to serve his country and do the right thing. And Chris comes off as basically a really good human being. He can wear his heart on his sleeve when he needs to.”

We see that heart when he’s questioned by Erskine about his motivations. When he’s coming to terms with his new powers. And most of all when he’s falling in love with Peggy Carter, played by Hayley Atwell as a tough but charming romantic foil for Evans’ hero.

These relationships give Cap a strong internal life, but a hero is only as good as the actions he takes.

Cap’s shield is the perfect encapsulation of what this character means. He’s created to protect an ideal, to shield those weaker than himself from forces who would harm and exploit them. This being war, Cap also uses a gun in this film, but the symbolism of Captain America’s protective nature, and his exceptional ability to turn defense into offense, retains Steve’s drive to do what’s right without turning him into a killing machine.

There’s something romantic and noble about Captain America in the same way there is about the best interpretations of Superman. Here’s a person bestowed with greatness whose own morality and actions actually live up to those gifts. Rogers knows what’s right and is propelled forward to do amazing things because of his convictions. In later films, we’ll see those convictions put to the test, but the dramatic tension of these stories come from Steve knowing what should be done and acting on it, no matter the cost.

The beauty and thrill of Captain America is that the world will always need heroes and that need is met by one man from the most unlikely of origins. Steve Rogers himself understands that need, but never thinks more of himself because of his ability to meet it. There is a distinct lack of self within the character of Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He may encapsulate the notion of American individual exceptionalism, but Steve Rogers fights for the world in a way that transcends borders and feels more in line with collectivism – the belief that the needs of the world outweigh the needs of the self.

And that is precisely the reason behind his sacrifice at the end of The First Avenger.

In the comics, Cap is frozen in the Atlantic Ocean when a plane explodes, hurling him into the sea. But The First Avenger makes Rogers’ suspended animation the result of his own active choice. Cap isn’t the unlucky victim, but instead the man who’ll sacrifice himself if it means saving others. And that’s what makes his seeming death and revival decades later both tragic and noble.

Captain America is the ideal, fighting for a good cause and finding brief happiness during one of the world’s darkest moments. So Cap’s seeming death, which coincides with the end of World War II, feels like the death of a bygone idealism. The world remembers Captain America, but has to move on without him.

And Steve, found and unfrozen decades later, will have to learn what it means to be Captain America in that new world.

The Avengers, The Winter Soldier, and more are rooted in Steve Rogers’ struggle to use his strength in service of a world that needs it more than ever, and the question of whether his unfailing morals will bend or break in a time where good and evil are harder to tell apart.

When the world seems darker than ever, and making a difference feels like an impossible challenge, we need ideals to cling to for inspiration. We may never reach them, but they pull us toward the light.

Those ideals are what The First Avenger is all about. We only need to understand what that means today.

It’s a legacy that Captain America, and ourselves, will carry on.

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25124667/it-is-impossible-to-make-an-anti-war/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SosdvNMsH0

https://kirbymuseum.org/blogs/effect/category/interview/

http://www.mtv.com/news/2622246/interview-joe-simon-the-man-who-created-captain-america-talks-his-life-in-comics/

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May 26, 2020 at 8:50 pm

Fantastic article, thank you sir !

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The Heros Journey

Men, gods, and heroes.

Captain America: The Man Behind the Shield

The year is 1941, and the Second World War is being waged across the globe. The axis powers are attempting to dominate the world, headed by one of the most influential people of all time, Adolf Hitler. The world needs a hero, the world needs Captain America!

Captain America’s signature weapon is his stared red, white and blue shield. He could use anything: a gun, a sword, any weapon that would be fatal in defeating a foe. Instead, he uses a shield, an item that protects. The shield represents the goal of America: protect. They were in the war to help protect the world, or so we say to this day. Cap served as a piece of propaganda in the 40’s to convince readers that America wanted to help and protect their allies, not come in and take over the world. Not only that, but Cap can be viewed as a propaganda piece to enlist.

Steve Rodgers was a frail kid before getting the super serum that would turn him into Captain America. He wanted to enlist in the armed forces, but his small stature made him unable. If you have seen the new Captain America movie, you see that because Steve was such a good, caring individual, he got the serum to make him the ultimate soldier. In other words, if you as an American were feeling small because of this frightening war going on, you can become big and powerful by joining the armed forces and assisting your country in defeating the enemy.

Cap might be a metaphor for the US, but his publication history is a bit choppy. After the war in 1950, the comic came to a halt in favor of new characters that were more popular. It was not until 1963 that the flag clad hero came back in a continuing publication. Even though Captain America was in essence America itself, he still got the cutting block a few times.

Captain America has had a rough past. He has recently made a resurgence as the “first Avenger” and with the Marvel movies coming out, we should be seeing plenty of him over the next few years. But, as a symbol of an old American Dream, is Cap ready for a new changing world that he no longer fits into? Or can his revival bring back the America that existed post World War II?

I should note, none of this is an official analysis of Captain America. This is all what I think about the character and what he stands for.

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A HERO’S JOURNEY: Behind the Scenes of CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER

By Tom Snyder, Editor

Joe Johnston is one of MOVIEGUIDE®’s favorite directors. Several of his movies, including HONEY I SHRUNK THE KIDS, THE ROCKETEER and OCTOBER SKY, have been MOVIEGUIDE® Award winners. Even when they’re not, however, his movies always have the energy and entertainment value captivate most audiences.

So, we jumped at the chance to get an exclusive interview with him for his newest movie, CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER.

Johnston said the movie’s World War II setting makes it stand apart from the other Marvel movies like THOR and IRON MAN.

“That to me was a real advantage,” he said.

“It was the only superhero movie I ever really wanted to do,” he added, “because he’s not really a superhero. He’s just a guy next door who gets this amazing gift and then he gets to go off and save the world with it. It’s wish fulfillment, and it’s sacrifice. It’s a really great hero’s journey.”

Don’t give up is the movie’s most striking message for Johnston.

“Somebody once told me that there’s always a father/son issue [in my movies], which wasn’t apparent to me. OCTOBER SKY is probably the best example of it. Even THE WOLFMAN in a weird way. And, JUMANJI. What appeals to me are the universal themes that we all can relate to, whether it’s family or this one, where it’s [about] determination and not giving up. If you take a really simple, basic element like that and build a story around it. . .”

Before shooting the movie, Johnston had the cast read through the script with him.

“I never rehearse because something always happens in rehearsal that you can’t duplicate. What is helpful is to read through the script with the cast, and they’re not performing, they’re reading. You get a chance to hear how the words sound, and you often get a chance to hear unnecessary dialogue.

“Mostly what I do in a read through is take a red pen and cross lines out. Most times what writers will do is they’ll say something, then say it again with slightly different verbiage. Audiences don’t need to be told twice. Tell them once, they’ll understand.

Does he think the movie’s patriotic, American themes and atmosphere will translate into other cultures?

“I think it can,” he replied. “We were really careful in making this picture not to wave the flag. It’s called CAPTAIN AMERICA and clearly there are American themes in it, but there’s also international themes. If you boil it down to his [Steve Rogers aka Captain America’s] story, he’s just a good guy fighting evil, and he’s just determined to do the right thing. We were really concerned if the world’s going to accept a movie called CAPTAIN AMERICA, but if we can sell what the movie’s about to the world, they’ll go see it. It’s not about America. It’s about this guy who’s just ready to sacrifice himself to do the right thing.”

Producer Kevin Feige, who produces the superhero movies for Marvel, agreed.

“Steve essentially is a man. . . a normal person,” he said. “He’s certainly at the peak of human endurance, but it’s still human endurance. So, if he gets shot, as he does briefly in the movie, he gets grazed, he could get killed. . . . He’s slightly stronger than your average Joe, but he’s not a Norse god, he doesn’t have a green ring, he doesn’t have an iron suit. . . and that wish fulfillment of seeing him struggle and endure and emerge victorious is, I think, what going to the movies is all about.”

Feige also believes the movie’s 1940s setting helps set it apart from the other comic book movies this year. In fact, Johnston said they patterned the movie after RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, which is set during the period right before World War II and is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed adventure movies of all time.

“RAIDERS was made 30 years ago now,” Johnston noted. “It still feels fresh, and I wanted CAPTAIN AMERICA to feel like that, to feel like it wasn’t a film made in the 40s – it was a film about the 40s made today.”

To Johnston, there’s little difference between shooting a big picture like CAPTAIN AMERICA or something smaller like OCTOBER SKY.

In both cases, he said, “I hire really high-paid professionals to help. The advantages of a picture like this is that they let you really get the best team.

“I had great support,” he noted. “We shot the whole thing in the UK. And, I took a lot of American crew over, but I had a great UK crew. Everyone wants to do a great job, and everyone loved the script, and they loved the cast and the designs and everything. If you get everybody behind it, you can’t go wrong.”

Johnston concluded, “If you can translate your thoughts to the artists and the technicians, you can achieve it.”

The stars of the movie enjoyed working with Johnston, they said.

“He lets the cameras roll and encourages us to try other things,” said Hayley Atwell, who plays Steve Rogers aka Captain America’s love interest, Peggy Carter, a British intelligence officer working with the Americans. “He was always open to suggestions and possible script changes.

“There was a sense of humor on the set,” she added.

“He really gave us a lot of freedom,” Sebastian Stan, who plays Captain America’s childhood friend “Bucky” Barnes, agreed. “We were allowed to take risks. . . and sometimes it didn’t work. He didn’t make you feel like you had to constantly walk up to him and ask permission, but a lot of great things came from that.”

Stan added that Johnston trusts himself when it comes to making a movie like CAPTAIN AMERICA.

“He really knows what he wants,” he said. “And, he doesn’t force actors or force the situation.”

Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.

What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.

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The Hero’s Journey: 12 Steps That Make Up the Universal Structure of Great Stories

by David Safford | 0 comments

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At some in your writer's life, you've probably come across the term Hero's Journey. Maybe you've even studied this guide for storytelling and applied it to your own books—and yet, something about your own application felt off. You wanted to learn more, but didn't know where to start.

Maybe you needed a resource that would simplify the hero's journey steps and all the other major details instead of complicate them.

The Hero's Journey is as old as humanity itself. And through history, this single story form has emerged over and over again. People from all cultures have seemed to favor its structure, and its familiar types of characters (archetypal hero, anyone?), symbols, relationships, and steps.

If you want to build or strengthen your writing career and win a following of many happy readers, you want this particular tool in your writer's toolbox.

Let's dive in.

Need help applying The Hero's Journey to your story outline and manuscript? Download this free Hero's Journey worksheet now!

Why I Love the Hero's Journey (And You Will, Too)

Like many, I grew up loving Star Wars. I especially loved the music and bought the soundtracks at some point in middle school. When my parents weren't home and I had the house all to myself, I'd slip one of the CDs into my stereo, crank the volume up, and blast the London Symphony Orchestra. I even pretended I was conducting the violins and timpani myself.

I know it's nerdy to admit. But we love what we love, and I love the music of great movies.

In a way, the Hero's Journey is like a soundtrack. It follows familiar beats and obeys age-old principles of human emotion. We can't necessarily explain why a piece of music is so beautiful, but we can explain what it does and simply acknowledge that most people like it.

As I've come to understand Joseph Campbell's groundbreaking monomyth theory, commonly known as the Hero's Journey, I've fallen deeper and deeper in love with it.

But it's important to make sure you know what it is, and what it isn't.

The Hero's Journey isn't a formula to simply follow, plugging in hackneyed characters into cliched situations.

It's not “selling out” and giving up your artistic integrity

The Hero's Journey is a set of steps, scenes, character types, symbols, and themes that tend to recur in stories regardless of culture or time period. Within these archetypes are nearly infinite variations and unique perspectives that are impacted by culture and period, reflecting wonderful traits of the authors and audiences.

Also, the Hero's Journey is a process that your reader expects your story to follow, whether they know it or not. This archetype is hard-wired into our D.N.A. Let's look at how to use it to make your own stories stronger.

How to Use This Hero's Journey Post

In the beginning, there were stories. These stories were told by mothers, soldiers, and performers. They were inscribed on the walls of caves, into tablets of stone, and on the first sheets of papyrus.

This is how the Hero's Journey was born.

In this post, I'll walk you through the Hero's Journey twelve steps, and teach you how to apply them into your story. I'll also share additional resources to teach you some other Hero's Journey essentials, like character archetypes, symbols, and themes. By the end of this post, you'll be able to easily apply the Hero's Journey to your story with confidence.

And don't skip out on the practice exercise at the end of the post! This will help you start to carve out the Hero's Journey for your story with a practical fifteen minute exercise—the best way to really retain how the Hero's Journey works is to apply it.

Table of Contents: The Hero's Journey Guide

What is the Hero's Journey?

Why the Hero's Journey will make you a better writer

The Twelve-Step Hero's Journey Structure

• The Ordinary World
• The Call to Adventure
• The Refusal of the Call
• Meeting the Mentor
• Crossing the Threshold
• Trials, Allies, and Enemies
• The Approach
• The Road Back
• The Resurrection
• Return With the Elixir

5 Essential Hero's Journey Scenes

A Guide to Structuring Your Hero's Journey

Bonus! Additional Hero's Journey Resources

• 5 Character Archetypes
• 5 Hero's Journey Symbols
• 5 Hero's Journey Themes

What Is the Hero's Journey?

The Hero's Journey is the timeless combination of characters, events, symbols, and relationships frequently structured as a sequence of twelve steps. It is a storytelling structure that anyone can study and utilize to tell a story that readers will love.

First identified and defined by Joseph Campbell, the Hero's Journey was theorizied in The Hero With a Thousand Faces . Today, it has been researched and taught by great minds, some including Carl Jung and Christopher Vogler (author of The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers ).

This research has given us lengthy and helpful lists of archetypes , or story elements that tend to recur in stories from any culture at any time.

And while some archetypes are unique to a genre, they are still consistent within those genres. For example, a horror story from Japan will still contain many of the same archetypes as a horror story from Ireland. There will certainly be notable differences in how these archetypes are depicted, but the tropes will still appear.

That's the power of the Hero's Journey. It is the skeleton key of storytelling that you can use to unlock the solution to almost any writing problem you are confronted with.

Why the Monomyth Will Make You a Better Writer

The Hero's Journey is the single most powerful tool at your disposal as a writer.

But it isn't a “rule,” so to speak. It's also not a to-do list.

If anything, the Hero's Journey is diagnostic, not prescriptive. In other words, it describes a story that works, but doesn't necessarily tell you what to do.

But the reason you should use the Hero's Journey isn't because it's a great trick or tool. You should use the Hero's Journey because it is based on thousands of years of human storytelling.

It provides a way to connect with readers from all different walks of life.

This is why stories about fantastical creatures from imaginary worlds can forge deep emotional connections with audiences. Hollywood knows this, and its best studios take advantage. As an example, The Lord of the Rings, by J. R. R. Tolkien, contains mythical creatures like elves and hobbits. Yet it is Frodo's heroic journey of sacrifice and courage that draws us to him like a magnet.

Learn how to easily apply the Hero's Journey 12 Steps to your books in this post. Tweet this

Step 9: The Reward

For their valiant efforts, the Hero must acquire the goal, yet the goal, as acquired, must be revealed to be inadequate. Usually this takes shape by the Hero reaching a crisis in their inner journey, where an inner need (for justice, peace, morality, etc) comes into conflict with the reality of the physical goal and what it provides (like wealth, fame, comfort, etc).

The point of this step in the Hero's Journey is that the Reward is never  enough. As much as we believe they will, the physical rewards of life never satisfy as deeply as we hope. The Hero's Journey reflects this universal human truth by continuing the story even after the Hero seems to get what they want.

Learn more: Hero's Journey Steps #9 and 10: The Reward and the Road Back

Step 10: The Road Back

Another way to identify the Road Back could be the  Response to the Reward,  whether it is the Hero's response (disgust, disappointment, resolve, etc) or the Shadow's (vengeance, change-of-heart, etc). After the Hero acquires the goal, there must be a flight or return back to the Ordinary World.

The key to the Road Back is that it creates a false sense of peace, safety, and finality. Because the Hero has seemingly gotten what they wanted all along, the reader may be left with a sense of completeness, but not a deep thematic satisfaction. Some readers might even wonder why the book isn't complete yet.

Step 11: Resurrection

Everything in the Hero's Journey leads up to this climactic step: the Resurrection. In this scene, the Hero must face the story's evil in an ultimate way, often in the actual final battle (after the fake-out ending in Step 10). Then the Hero must  suffer a form a death. It may not be literal, actual death; but it must be a death, regardless. During this death, the hero is often trapped somewhere, like a dungeon or the “belly of the whale.”

Then the Hero must be resurrected. This is not easy to pull off. It requires careful planning and revision when the details don't add up exactly as you'd like. But through their own power, skill, righteousness, cleverness, or kindness to others, the Hero must earn a resurrection that brings them back into the fight.

Learn more: Hero's Journey Step #11: The Resurrection

Step 12: Return With the Elixir

The conclusion of your Hero's Journey necessitates some kind of return. This is a return to the original Ordinary World, or a return to the community of the world if it has had to relocate.

When they return, the Hero brings back gifts and blessings, an ultimate boon that usually takes physical form, like food, rain, or safety. However, it also takes spiritual form, as in hope, faith, and love. The Hero must  bring these gifts back and share them with their community. It is essential to your reader's experience of catharsis, and represents the apotheosis of the story's themes and values.

Learn more: Hero's Journey Step #12: Return With the Elixir

Inside the Steps: 5 Essential Hero's Journey Scenes

One final way to do this is by noting checkpoints as they outline and/or verify if and how the Hero's Journey works in their story.

To distill this lengthy structure into an easy checklist, writers need to learn how to plan and draft five scenes that are the building blocks of a well-written Hero's Journey. I cover each of these in their own individual post, which I highly recommend you check out:

Scene One: “Choice to Go” 

Two: “Initation” 

Scene Three: “Task” 

Four: “All Hope is Lost” 

Scene Five: “Hero Returns with the Ultimate Boon”

Structure is an extremely subjective matter to storytellers. It is the source of the schism between so-called “Planners” (those who write with a plan) and “Pantsers” (those who write by the seat of their pants ).

No matter where your preference lies, there are principles of storytelling that can benefit you on your mission to write a great story with a solid, timeless Hero's Journey at its core.

In order to help you apply the Hero's Journey Twelve Steps to your story, consider these three (practical!) principles of solid story structure:

1. Divide Your Story Into 3 Acts

How does Three-Act Structure overlap with a Twelve-Step Hero's Journey? It's actually not that complicated. Usually, the Three-Act Hero's Journey looks like this.

Act 1 = Steps 1 through 5

The Beginning of your story shows the reader the Hero's Ordinary World, their Call to Adventure and Refusal, the introduction and early work of the Mentor, and the Hero's “Choice to Go,” or Crossing of the Threshold.

Act 2 = Step 6

Yup. All of Act Two, the Middle Build, is a single Step: Trials, Allies, and Enemies. This is why it's essential to realize that this Step uses the entire twelve-step structure within itself, and must put the Hero to the test a number of times on their journey toward the final goal.

Act 3 = Steps 7 through 12

The Ending of the story begins when the Hero pauses to Approach the final Ordeal. It then proceeds to the major Ordeal, the Reward and consequential false ending, any Road Back that may be involved, the ultimate showdown resulting in Resurrection, and the Hero's triumphant Return with the Elixir.

2. Use Word Counts to Plan Your Drafting

There are benefits to generating an idea of how many words and chapters you should be writing. If that sounds like too much planning for you, consider this question: Do you like wasting time?

I don't. And I'd prefer to waste as little as possible. That's one of the great benefits of planning your writing with word counts in mind.

Knowing a rough estimate of how a Hero's Journey could break down by the numbers can help you plan, write, and edit a novel with a steady and strong pace. And simultaneously, it's likely that this road map will give you even more motivation to finish your story.

You might also consider devoting certain percentages of your time to the Beginning, Middle, and Ending of your book, which I'll cover more in a future post.

3. Specifically Plan Your Steps

Once you've made upon a rough word count estimate, you can plan your steps quite deliberately. As you complete this process, you can alter your estimate as well.

With this kind of plan in place, you can determine when it's time to move on to the next step as you draft. This isn't to “follow the rules,” but to stay attuned to the kind of stories that readers love and have loved for thousands of years.

With this in mind, you'll be able to use the Hero's Journey as a guide that provides a massive canvas for you to freely paint upon—and one that will come in extreme convenience as you study and apply the Twelve-Step Hero's Journey.

Hero's Journey Examples

Learning these concepts one-by-one is certainly useful, but might not help you see the power in a well-told, well-structured Hero's Journey story.

In order to really master the Hero's Journey, you can explore popular books and films that use these steps and archetypes with expert artistry.

These three examples were a turning point in my writing career while studying the Hero's Journey:

Example #1: Star Wars

Perhaps the most obvious Hero's Journey example, Star Wars  contains a feast of archetypes and structural choices that will help us see Campbell's work in action.

As an appetizer, I explore some Hero's Journey essentials in Star Wars in its own post. In it, I discuss topics like the ways Luke Skywalker is an ideal Hero,  and how on his journey, Luke faces the villainous Darth Vader, the story's Shadow . And who could forget the mysterious supernatural aid: Luke's Mentor , Obi-wan?

Whether you love or hate George Lucas's space opus (and/or what Disney has done with it since 2012), the films of the Star Wars  universe are excellent examples to study and learn from.

Learn more: Discover ALL the ways  Star Wars  uses archetypes here!

Example #2: Toy Story

Few Hollywood studios regularly utilize the Hero's Journey to incredible effect more than Pixar. In its first outing, Toy Story,  Pixar successfully told two  Hero's Journeys for both Sheriff Woody and Buzz Lightyear. In subsequent sequels, it would recapture the magic, taking its cowboy protagonist along a sequence of heroic steps that resonant with the human experience.

For example, Woody begins in an Ordinary World  in which he comfortably runs Andy's bedroom; he's Called to Adventure  when a new toy arrives and challenges him for the role of Andy's favorite toy; and he Refuses the Call  by choosing a crooked path, in which he attempts to have Buzz knocked into a corner where Andy won't find him.

As you can imagine, the story continues from there, with Woody and Buzz split between two worlds, and our heroes choices seem to perfectly follow the Hero's Journey as they attempt to reunite with Andy and forge a relationship that isn't purely antagonistic.

Beloved by generations of audiences, Toy Story  is an ideal work to focus on as we study Campbell's work.

I ‘ll breakdown the Hero's Journey Twelve Steps in this iconic film in a future post. 

Example #3: The Hunger Games

The dystopian genre is filled with unlucky heroes who realize that their worlds are broken, only to rise up against invincible forces. In one of the most popular of these stories, Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games,  follows a dirt-poor girl on a quest to unseat a tyrant and bring justice to Panem. As you certainly expected, The Hunger Games  is a perfect case study of the power of myth to bring a fantastic world into stark reality.

For example, Katniss Everdeen, the story's hero, follows in the footsteps of many other protagonists by bearing a Magic Weapon,  or object that seems to heighten the hero's powers and reveal his/her greatness.

Once out of her comfort zone, she endures numerous Tests and Trials,  including the lengthy Task  of surviving the Hunger Games themselves. Along the way she enters a Belly of the Beast,  or cave, where she must nurse her partner Peta back to health. And in the story's gripping conclusion, Katniss must survive an onslaught of Creatures of Nightmare  as the “Mutts” swarm the Cornucopia where she and Peta must make their last stand.

These situations, symbols, and more appear all throughout the Hunger Games trilogy, and I'll share exactly how these Hero's Journey essentials apply in a future post. 

Additional Examples of The Hero's Journey

These three stories are by no means the only examples of the monomyth executed to perfection. Some other stories great for analyzing the Hero's Journey could include:

• The Lord of the Rings,  by J.R.R. Tolkien
• Harry Potter,  by J.K. Rowling
• Pixar's Ratatouille
• Pixar's WALL-E
• Back to the Future
• The Great Gatsby
• Pride and Prejudice,  by Jane Austen
• Alien and Aliens  (directed by Ridley Scott and James Cameron, respectively)

BONUS! Additional Hero's Journey Resources

Applying the Hero's Journey steps to your story will connect with readers on a human level. However, that's not the only insight you can learn from the Hero's Journey. If you're up for it, learn more about why the Hero's Journey touches readers with these bonus essentials.

Hero's Journey Character Archetypes

Every story begins with great characters, and the Hero's Journey is the study of recurring character types , known as archetypes.

A character archetype is a character type that serves a specific role in a story and tends to reoccur in myths, legends, and stories across genres, cultures, and time periods.

In order to be properly utilized, a character archetype must fulfill its set purpose while exhibiting new, innovative traits. There are several important character archetypes used in heroic storylines—especially these five: hero, shadow, loyal retainer, mentor, and threshold guardians.

Learn more: Hero's Journey Character archetypes that will make your story awesome

5 Hero's Journey Symbols to Use

A Hero's Journey Symbol, also known as a symbolic archetype , is an object, location, or image in a story that contains more than one functional meaning. It has both a physical meaning in the story world and a thematic meaning for the reader to interpret.

Within your Hero's Journey scenes and relationships, you can use objects and small events to add even more thematic significance to your story.

Read more about five effective Hero's Journey symbols here:

1. “Light vs. Darkness” Symbol

2. “Magic Weapon” Symbol

3. “Underworld” Symbol

4. “Castle” Symbol

5. “Unhealable Wound” Symbol

5 Hero's Journey Themes to Explore

A Hero's Journey Theme is a relationship between two opposite ideas or elements. Throughout the story, the pros and cons of each idea/element are explored, with the Hero making high stakes choices in the context of this conflict-filled relationship. The conclusions the reader comes to about this relationship are its themes.

Read about five favored Hero's Journey themes in these posts:

1.   “Good vs. Evil” Thematic Relationship

2. “ Have n vs. Wildnerness” Thematic Relationship

3. “Nature vs. Machine” Thematic Relationship

4. “Father vs. Son” Thematic Relationship

5. “Sibling vs. Sibling” Thematic Relationship

It's Time to Tell Your Hero's Journey

Star Wars, Toy Story,  and The Hunger Games  are just three members of a near-limitless collection of stories, new and old, that use the Hero's Journey structure and archetypes to thrill readers.

The next, I hope, will be written by you!

Use the Hero's Journey Twelve Steps to outline, write, and/or edit your book—and touch all your readers on a human level.

Have you applied the Hero's Journey to your stories  before? How did it go?  Let us know in the comments .

There's no way to write a full Hero's Journey novel in just fifteen minutes. But you  can plot out your next story according to the Hero's Journey, which is what I encourage you to do.

For today, spend fifteen minutes writing a story premise that (1) you're eager to write, and (2) you can use to outline the Hero's Journey. Then, if you're up for it, journal about how the twelve steps in the Hero's Journey could apply to this story idea.

Write your ideas in the Pro Practice Workshop here . When you're done, leave some feedback for your fellow writers, as well!

David Safford

You deserve a great book. That's why David Safford writes adventure stories that you won't be able to put down. Read his latest story at his website. David is a Language Arts teacher, novelist, blogger, hiker, Legend of Zelda fanatic, puzzle-doer, husband, and father of two awesome children.

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Borders of Masculinity: The Hero's Journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe

• Cara Walsh DLR Balll State

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has grown into one of the most popular entertainment franchises since its debut film in 2008. Even with competition rising in the superhero film industry, the MCU continues to stand out due to its unique and intricate depiction of the hero’s journey. The three foundational heroes of the MCU (Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor) illustrate how toxic expressions of masculinity create borders to their emotional development and character growth, borders that they must overcome along the hero’s journey. In his first film, Iron Man , Tony Stark begins to reevaluate the path that his father laid out for him when he undergoes a major moral transformation that makes him realize the violent impact of weapons manufacturing at Stark Industries. By becoming Iron Man, Tony makes a commitment to bettering himself and serving as a protector, but his insecurities continue to manifest into his public image as hero until his final appearance in Avengers: Endgame . Captain America, though not the most obvious depiction of toxic masculinity, struggles with the same identity issues as Tony Stark. From his first film, Captain America: The First Avenger , Steve Rodgers battles with insecurities that stem from always having been the “little guy.” Steve constantly starts fights that he cannot win to stand up for others, and repeatedly enlists to the WWII draft despite being rejected due to poor health every time. His desperation to fulfill the hero role separates him from his only love, Peggy Carter, by an uncrossable border, time, until he gives these toxic traits up to return to her in Avengers: Endgame . Thor also struggles to fill his father’s shoes as the king and protector of his home world, Asgard. His need to be seen as a hero and fierce warrior make him impulsive and quick to violence, which puts his kingdom at risk and bases his self-esteem on this image of himself. Though Thor’s arc isn’t finished yet, Avengers: Endgame illustrates his coping with his failure to fulfill this image as he rebuilds his self-esteem into his own identity. These three heroes demonstrate how toxic masculinity creates borders to their personal growth and progression along the hero's journey.

How to Cite

• Endnote/Zotero/Mendeley (RIS)

Most read articles by the same author(s)

• Grace Babcock, Cara Walsh, Cali Fehr, Aurora Hibbert, Sam Scoma, Calvin Sheinfeld, Mind the Gap: An Analysis of the Construction and Cultural Function of Borders in Media , Digital Literature Review: Vol. 9 (2022): Brexits and Borders

Sponsored by Ball State University Libraries .

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Last updated on Aug 10, 2023

The Hero's Journey: 12 Steps to a Classic Story Structure

The Hero's Journey is a timeless story structure which follows a protagonist on an unforeseen quest, where they face challenges, gain insights, and return home transformed. From Theseus and the Minotaur to The Lion King , so many narratives follow this pattern that it’s become ingrained into our cultural DNA. 

In this post, we'll show you how to make this classic plot structure work for you — and if you’re pressed for time, download our cheat sheet below for everything you need to know.

FREE RESOURCE

Hero's Journey Template

Plot your character's journey with our step-by-step template.

What is the Hero’s Journey?

The Hero's Journey, also known as the monomyth, is a story structure where a hero goes on a quest or adventure to achieve a goal, and has to overcome obstacles and fears, before ultimately returning home transformed.

This narrative arc has been present in various forms across cultures for centuries, if not longer, but gained popularity through Joseph Campbell's mythology book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces . While Campbell identified 17 story beats in his monomyth definition, this post will concentrate on a 12-step framework popularized in 2007 by screenwriter Christopher Vogler in his book The Writer’s Journey .

The 12 Steps of the Hero’s Journey

The Hero's Journey is a model for both plot points and character development : as the Hero traverses the world, they'll undergo inner and outer transformation at each stage of the journey. The 12 steps of the hero's journey are: 

• The Ordinary World. We meet our hero.
• Call to Adventure. Will they meet the challenge?
• Refusal of the Call. They resist the adventure.
• Meeting the Mentor. A teacher arrives.
• Crossing the First Threshold. The hero leaves their comfort zone.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Making friends and facing roadblocks.
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. Getting closer to our goal.
• Ordeal. The hero’s biggest test yet!
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Light at the end of the tunnel
• The Road Back. We aren’t safe yet.
• Resurrection. The final hurdle is reached.
• Return with the Elixir. The hero heads home, triumphant.

Believe it or not, this story structure also applies across mediums and genres (and also works when your protagonist is an anti-hero! ). Let's dive into it.

1. Ordinary World

In which we meet our Hero.

The journey has yet to start. Before our Hero discovers a strange new world, we must first understand the status quo: their ordinary, mundane reality.

It’s up to this opening leg to set the stage, introducing the Hero to readers. Importantly, it lets readers identify with the Hero as a “normal” person in a “normal” setting, before the journey begins.

2. Call to Adventure

In which an adventure starts.

The call to adventure is all about booting the Hero out of their comfort zone. In this stage, they are generally confronted with a problem or challenge they can't ignore. This catalyst can take many forms, as Campbell points out in Hero with a Thousand Faces . The Hero can, for instance:

• Decide to go forth of their own volition;
• Theseus upon arriving in Athens.
• Be sent abroad by a benign or malignant agent;
• Odysseus setting off on his ship in The Odyssey .
• Stumble upon the adventure as a result of a mere blunder;
• Dorothy when she’s swept up in a tornado in The Wizard of Oz .
• Be casually strolling when some passing phenomenon catches the wandering eye and lures one away from the frequented paths of man.
• Elliot in E.T. upon discovering a lost alien in the tool shed.

The stakes of the adventure and the Hero's goals become clear. The only question: will he rise to the challenge?

3. Refusal of the Call

In which the Hero digs in their feet.

Great, so the Hero’s received their summons. Now they’re all set to be whisked off to defeat evil, right?

Not so fast. The Hero might first refuse the call to action. It’s risky and there are perils — like spiders, trolls, or perhaps a creepy uncle waiting back at Pride Rock . It’s enough to give anyone pause.

In Star Wars , for instance, Luke Skywalker initially refuses to join Obi-Wan on his mission to rescue the princess. It’s only when he discovers that his aunt and uncle have been killed by stormtroopers that he changes his mind.

4. Meeting the Mentor

In which the Hero acquires a personal trainer.

The Hero's decided to go on the adventure — but they’re not ready to spread their wings yet. They're much too inexperienced at this point and we don't want them to do a fabulous belly-flop off the cliff.

Enter the mentor: someone who helps the Hero, so that they don't make a total fool of themselves (or get themselves killed). The mentor provides practical training, profound wisdom, a kick up the posterior, or something abstract like grit and self-confidence.

Wise old wizards seem to like being mentors. But mentors take many forms, from witches to hermits and suburban karate instructors. They might literally give weapons to prepare for the trials ahead, like Q in the James Bond series. Or perhaps the mentor is an object, such as a map. In all cases, they prepare the Hero for the next step.

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5. Crossing the First Threshold

In which the Hero enters the other world in earnest.

Now the Hero is ready — and committed — to the journey. This marks the end of the Departure stage and is when the adventure really kicks into the next gear. As Vogler writes: “This is the moment that the balloon goes up, the ship sails, the romance begins, the wagon gets rolling.”

From this point on, there’s no turning back.

Like our Hero, you should think of this stage as a checkpoint for your story. Pause and re-assess your bearings before you continue into unfamiliar territory. Have you:

• Launched the central conflict? If not, here’s a post on types of conflict to help you out.
• Established the theme of your book? If not, check out this post that’s all about creating theme and motifs .
• Made headway into your character development? If not, this character profile template may be useful:

Reedsy’s Character Profile Template

A story is only as strong as its characters. Fill this out to develop yours.

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies

In which the Hero faces new challenges and gets a squad.

When we step into the Special World, we notice a definite shift. The Hero might be discombobulated by this unfamiliar reality and its new rules. This is generally one of the longest stages in the story , as our protagonist gets to grips with this new world.

This makes a prime hunting ground for the series of tests to pass! Luckily, there are many ways for the Hero to get into trouble:

• In Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle , Spencer, Bethany, “Fridge,” and Martha get off to a bad start when they bump into a herd of bloodthirsty hippos.
• In his first few months at Hogwarts, Harry Potter manages to fight a troll, almost fall from a broomstick and die, and get horribly lost in the Forbidden Forest.
• Marlin and Dory encounter three “reformed” sharks, get shocked by jellyfish, and are swallowed by a blue whale en route to finding Nemo.

This stage often expands the cast of characters. Once the protagonist is in the Special World, he will meet allies and enemies — or foes that turn out to be friends and vice versa. He will learn a new set of rules from them. Saloons and seedy bars are popular places for these transactions, as Vogler points out (so long as the Hero survives them).

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave

In which the Hero gets closer to his goal.

This isn’t a physical cave. Instead, the “inmost cave” refers to the most dangerous spot in the other realm — whether that’s the villain’s chambers, the lair of the fearsome dragon, or the Death Star. Almost always, it is where the ultimate goal of the quest is located.

Note that the protagonist hasn’t entered the Inmost Cave just yet. This stage is all about the approach to it. It covers all the prep work that's needed in order to defeat the villain.

In which the Hero faces his biggest test of all thus far.

Of all the tests the Hero has faced, none have made them hit rock bottom — until now. Vogler describes this phase as a “black moment.” Campbell refers to it as the “belly of the whale.” Both indicate some grim news for the Hero.

The protagonist must now confront their greatest fear. If they survive it, they will emerge transformed. This is a critical moment in the story, as Vogler explains that it will “inform every decision that the Hero makes from this point forward.”

The Ordeal is sometimes not the climax of the story. There’s more to come. But you can think of it as the main event of the second act — the one in which the Hero actually earns the title of “Hero.”

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword)

In which the Hero sees light at the end of the tunnel.

Our Hero’s been through a lot. However, the fruits of their labor are now at hand — if they can just reach out and grab them! The “reward” is the object or knowledge the Hero has fought throughout the entire journey to hold.

Once the protagonist has it in their possession, it generally has greater ramifications for the story. Vogler offers a few examples of it in action:

• Luke rescues Princess Leia and captures the plans of the Death Star — keys to defeating Darth Vader.
• Dorothy escapes from the Wicked Witch’s castle with the broomstick and the ruby slippers — keys to getting back home.

10. The Road Back

In which the light at the end of the tunnel might be a little further than the Hero thought.

The story's not over just yet, as this phase marks the beginning of Act Three. Now that he's seized the reward, the Hero tries to return to the Ordinary World, but more dangers (inconveniently) arise on the road back from the Inmost Cave.

More precisely, the Hero must deal with the consequences and aftermath of the previous act: the dragon, enraged by the Hero who’s just stolen a treasure from under his nose, starts the hunt. Or perhaps the opposing army gathers to pursue the Hero across a crowded battlefield. All further obstacles for the Hero, who must face them down before they can return home.

11. Resurrection

In which the last test is met.

Here is the true climax of the story. Everything that happened prior to this stage culminates in a crowning test for the Hero, as the Dark Side gets one last chance to triumph over the Hero.

Vogler refers to this as a “final exam” for the Hero — they must be “tested once more to see if they have really learned the lessons of the Ordeal.” It’s in this Final Battle that the protagonist goes through one more “resurrection.” As a result, this is where you’ll get most of your miraculous near-death escapes, à la James Bond's dashing deliverances. If the Hero survives, they can start looking forward to a sweet ending.

12. Return with the Elixir

In which our Hero has a triumphant homecoming.

Finally, the Hero gets to return home. However, they go back a different person than when they started out: they’ve grown and matured as a result of the journey they’ve taken.

But we’ve got to see them bring home the bacon, right? That’s why the protagonist must return with the “Elixir,” or the prize won during the journey, whether that’s an object or knowledge and insight gained.

Of course, it’s possible for a story to end on an Elixir-less note — but then the Hero would be doomed to repeat the entire adventure.

Examples of The Hero’s Journey in Action

To better understand this story template beyond the typical sword-and-sorcery genre, let's analyze three examples, from both screenplay and literature, and examine how they implement each of the twelve steps. 

The 1976 film Rocky is acclaimed as one of the most iconic sports films because of Stallone’s performance and the heroic journey his character embarks on.

• Ordinary World. Rocky Balboa is a mediocre boxer and loan collector — just doing his best to live day-to-day in a poor part of Philadelphia.
• Call to Adventure. Heavyweight champ Apollo Creed decides to make a big fight interesting by giving a no-name loser a chance to challenge him. That loser: Rocky Balboa.
• Refusal of the Call. Rocky says, “Thanks, but no thanks,” given that he has no trainer and is incredibly out of shape.
• Meeting the Mentor. In steps former boxer Mickey “Mighty Mick” Goldmill, who sees potential in Rocky and starts training him physically and mentally for the fight.
• Crossing the First Threshold. Rocky crosses the threshold of no return when he accepts the fight on live TV, and 一 in parallel 一 when he crosses the threshold into his love interest Adrian’s house and asks her out on a date.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Rocky continues to try and win Adrian over and maintains a dubious friendship with her brother, Paulie, who provides him with raw meat to train with.
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. The Inmost Cave in Rocky is Rocky’s own mind. He fears that he’ll never amount to anything — something that he reveals when he butts heads with his trainer, Mickey, in his apartment.
• Ordeal. The start of the training montage marks the beginning of Rocky’s Ordeal. He pushes through it until he glimpses hope ahead while running up the museum steps.
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Rocky's reward is the restoration of his self-belief, as he recognizes he can try to “go the distance” with Apollo Creed and prove he's more than "just another bum from the neighborhood."
• The Road Back. On New Year's Day, the fight takes place. Rocky capitalizes on Creed's overconfidence to start strong, yet Apollo makes a comeback, resulting in a balanced match.
• Resurrection. The fight inflicts multiple injuries and pushes both men to the brink of exhaustion, with Rocky being knocked down numerous times. But he consistently rises to his feet, enduring through 15 grueling rounds.
• Return with the Elixir. Rocky loses the fight — but it doesn’t matter. He’s won back his confidence and he’s got Adrian, who tells him that she loves him.

Moving outside of the ring, let’s see how this story structure holds on a completely different planet and with a character in complete isolation. 

The Martian 

In Andy Weir’s self-published bestseller (better known for its big screen adaptation) we follow astronaut Mark Watney as he endures the challenges of surviving on Mars and working out a way to get back home.

• The Ordinary World. Botanist Mark and other astronauts are on a mission on Mars to study the planet and gather samples. They live harmoniously in a structure known as "the Hab.”
• Call to Adventure. The mission is scrapped due to a violent dust storm. As they rush to launch, Mark is flung out of sight and the team believes him to be dead. He is, however, very much alive — stranded on Mars with no way of communicating with anyone back home.
• Refusal of the Call. With limited supplies and grim odds of survival, Mark concludes that he will likely perish on the desolate planet.
• Meeting the Mentor. Thanks to his resourcefulness and scientific knowledge he starts to figure out how to survive until the next Mars mission arrives.
• Crossing the First Threshold. Mark crosses the mental threshold of even trying to survive 一 he successfully creates a greenhouse to cultivate a potato crop, creating a food supply that will last long enough.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Loneliness and other difficulties test his spirit, pushing him to establish contact with Earth and the people at NASA, who devise a plan to help.  
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. Mark faces starvation once again after an explosion destroys his potato crop.
• Ordeal. A NASA rocket destined to deliver supplies to Mark disintegrates after liftoff and all hope seems lost.
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Mark’s efforts to survive are rewarded with a new possibility to leave the planet. His team 一 now aware that he’s alive 一 defies orders from NASA and heads back to Mars to rescue their comrade.
• The Road Back. Executing the new plan is immensely difficult 一 Mark has to travel far to locate the spaceship for his escape, and almost dies along the way.
• Resurrection. Mark is unable to get close enough to his teammates' ship but finds a way to propel himself in empty space towards them, and gets aboard safely.
• Return with the Elixir. Now a survival instructor for aspiring astronauts, Mark teaches students that space is indifferent and that survival hinges on solving one problem after another, as well as the importance of other people’s help.

Coming back to Earth, let’s now examine a heroine’s journey through the wilderness of the Pacific Crest Trail and her… humanity. 

The memoir Wild narrates the three-month-long hiking adventure of Cheryl Strayed across the Pacific coast, as she grapples with her turbulent past and rediscovers her inner strength.

• The Ordinary World. Cheryl shares her strong bond with her mother who was her strength during a tough childhood with an abusive father.
• Call to Adventure. As her mother succumbs to lung cancer, Cheryl faces the heart-wrenching reality to confront life's challenges on her own.
• Refusal of the Call. Cheryl spirals down into a destructive path of substance abuse and infidelity, which leads to hit rock bottom with a divorce and unwanted pregnancy. 
• Meeting the Mentor. Her best friend Lisa supports her during her darkest time. One day she notices the Pacific Trail guidebook, which gives her hope to find her way back to her inner strength.
• Crossing the First Threshold. She quits her job, sells her belongings, and visits her mother’s grave before traveling to Mojave, where the trek begins.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies. Cheryl is tested by her heavy bag, blisters, rattlesnakes, and exhaustion, but many strangers help her along the trail with a warm meal or hiking tips. 
• Approach to the Inmost Cave. As Cheryl goes through particularly tough and snowy parts of the trail her emotional baggage starts to catch up with her.  
• Ordeal. She inadvertently drops one of her shoes off a cliff, and the incident unearths the helplessness she's been evading since her mother's passing.
• Reward (Seizing the Sword). Cheryl soldiers on, trekking an impressive 50 miles in duct-taped sandals before finally securing a new pair of shoes. This small victory amplifies her self-confidence.
• The Road Back. On the last stretch, she battles thirst, sketchy hunters, and a storm, but more importantly, she revisits her most poignant and painful memories.
• Resurrection. Cheryl forgives herself for damaging her marriage and her sense of worth, owning up to her mistakes. A pivotal moment happens at Crater Lake, where she lets go of her frustration at her mother for passing away.
• Return with the Elixir. Cheryl reaches the Bridge of the Gods and completes the trail. She has found her inner strength and determination for life's next steps.

There are countless other stories that could align with this template, but it's not always the perfect fit. So, let's look into when authors should consider it or not.

When should writers use The Hero’s Journey?

The Hero’s Journey is just one way to outline a novel and dissect a plot. For more longstanding theories on the topic, you can go this way to read about the ever-popular Three-Act Structure or here to discover Dan Harmon's Story Circle and three more prevalent structures .

So when is it best to use the Hero’s Journey? There are a couple of circumstances which might make this a good choice.

When you need more specific story guidance than simple structures can offer

Simply put, the Hero’s Journey structure is far more detailed and closely defined than other story structure theories. If you want a fairly specific framework for your work than a thee-act structure, the Hero’s Journey can be a great place to start.

Of course, rules are made to be broken . There’s plenty of room to play within the confines of the Hero’s Journey, despite it appearing fairly prescriptive at first glance. Do you want to experiment with an abbreviated “Resurrection” stage, as J.K. Rowling did in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone? Are you more interested in exploring the journey of an anti-hero? It’s all possible.

Once you understand the basics of this universal story structure, you can use and bend it in ways that disrupt reader expectations.

Need more help developing your book? Try this template on for size:

Get our Book Development Template

Use this template to go from a vague idea to a solid plan for a first draft.

When your focus is on a single protagonist

No matter how sprawling or epic the world you’re writing is, if your story is, at its core, focused on a single character’s journey, then this is a good story structure for you. It’s kind of in the name! If you’re dealing with an entire ensemble, the Hero’s Journey may not give you the scope to explore all of your characters’ plots and subplot — a broader three-act structure may give you more freedom to weave a greater number story threads. ​​

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Whether you're a reader or writer, we hope our guide has helped you understand this universal story arc. Want to know more about story structure? We explain 6 more in our guide — read on!

6 responses

PJ Reece says:

25/07/2018 – 19:41

Nice vid, good intro to story structure. Typically, though, the 'hero's journey' misses the all-important point of the Act II crisis. There, where the hero faces his/her/its existential crisis, they must DIE. The old character is largely destroyed -- which is the absolute pre-condition to 'waking up' to what must be done. It's not more clever thinking; it's not thinking at all. Its SEEING. So many writing texts miss this point. It's tantamount to a religions experience, and nobody grows up without it. STORY STRUCTURE TO DIE FOR examines this dramatic necessity.

↪️ C.T. Cheek replied:

13/11/2019 – 21:01

Okay, but wouldn't the Act II crisis find itself in the Ordeal? The Hero is tested and arguably looses his/her/its past-self for the new one. Typically, the Hero is not fully "reborn" until the Resurrection, in which they defeat the hypothetical dragon and overcome the conflict of the story. It's kind of this process of rebirth beginning in the earlier sections of the Hero's Journey and ending in the Resurrection and affirmed in the Return with the Elixir.

Lexi Mize says:

25/07/2018 – 22:33

Great article. Odd how one can take nearly every story and somewhat plug it into such a pattern.

Bailey Koch says:

11/06/2019 – 02:16

This was totally lit fam!!!!

↪️ Bailey Koch replied:

11/09/2019 – 03:46

where is my dad?

Frank says:

12/04/2020 – 12:40

Great article, thanks! :) But Vogler didn't expand Campbell's theory. Campbell had seventeen stages, not twelve.

Comments are currently closed.

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Hero's Journey: A Guide to Becoming The Hero Of Your Story

What will your story be.

Be the hero of your story . It’s common advice from motivational speakers and life coaches, a call to arms to take centre stage and tackle life’s challenges head-on, to emerge victorious in the face of adversity, to transform through hardship. 

As humans, hardwired to view the world and share experiences through the medium of stories, myths often act as powerful motivators of change. From ancient cave paintings to the Star Wars and its Death Star to Harry Potter and his battle against evil, the hero’s journey structure is a familiar one. It’s also one you need to know if you want to know how to write a book , but I digress. 

This article will outline the stages, and psychological meaning, of the 12 steps of Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey. So, are you ready to become the hero of your story? Then let the adventure begin...

Who is Joseph Campbell? 

Joseph Campbell was an American professor of literature at Sarah Lawrence College, and an expert of mythology that once spent five years in a rented shack, buried in books for nine hours each day. His greatest contribution is the hero’s journey, outlined in his book The Hero with A Thousand Faces . Campbell was able to synthesise huge volumes of heroic stories, distilling a common structure amongst them.

Near the end of his life, Campbell was interviewed by Bill Moyers in a documentary series exploring his work, The Power of Myth .

Throughout their discussion, Campbell highlighted the importance of myth not just in stories, but in our lives, as symbols to inspire us to flourish and grow to our full potential.

How is the hero’s journey connected to self development?

You might be wondering what storytelling has to do with self-development. Before we dive into the hero’s journey (whether that is a male or a female hero’s journey), context will be useful. Joseph Cambell was heavily inspired by the work of Carl Jung, the groundbreaking psychologist who throughout his life worked on theories such as the shadow, collective unconscious, archetypes, and synchronicity.

Jung’s greatest insight was that the unconscious is a vast, vibrant landscape, yet out sight from the ordinary conscious experience. Jung didn’t only theorize about the unconscious; he provided a huge body of work explaining the language of the unconscious, and the way in which it communicates with the conscious mind.

The nature of the unconscious

Due to its vast nature, the unconscious doesn’t operate like the conscious mind, which is based in language, logic, and rationality. The unconscious instead operates in the imaginal realm — using symbols and meaning that take time to be deciphered and understood consciously. Such symbols surface in dreams, visualizations, daydreams, or fantasies.

For Jung, the creative process is one in which contents of the unconscious mind are brought to light. Enter storytelling and character development — a process of myth-making that somehow captures the truth of deep psychological processes. 

Campbell saw the power of myth in igniting the unconscious will to grow and live a meaningful life. With that in mind, his structure offers a tool of transformation and a way to inspire the unconscious to work towards your own hero’s journey.

The 12 steps of the hero’s journey

The hero’s journey ends where it begins, back at the beginning after a quest of epic proportions. The 12 steps are separated into three acts: 

• departure (1-5)
• initiation (5-10)
• return (10-1)

The hero journeys through the 12 steps in a clockwise fashion. As Campbell explains:

“The usual hero adventure begins with someone from whom something has been taken, or who feels there is something lacking in the normal experience available or permitted to the members of society. The person then takes off on a series of adventures beyond the ordinary, either to recover what has been lost or to discover some life-giving elixir. It’s usually a cycle, a coming and a returning.”

Let’s take a closer look at each of the steps below. Plus, under each is a psychological symbol that describes how the hero’s journey unfolds, and how when the hero ventures forth, he undergoes an inner process of awakening and transformation.

1. The ordinary world

The calm before the storm. The hero is living a standard, mundane life, going about their business unaware of the impending call to adventure. At this point, the hero is portrayed as very, very human. There could be glimpses of their potential, but these circumstances restrict the hero from fulfilling them. Although well within the hero’s comfort zone, at this stage, it’s clear something significant is lacking from their life.

Psychological symbol

This is represented as a stage of ignorance, pre-awakening. Living life by the status quo, on other people’s terms, or simply without questioning if this is what you want. At this point life is lived, but not deeply satisfying.

2. Call to adventure

Next is a disruption, a significant event that threatens the ways things were. This is a challenge that the hero knows deep down will lead to transformation and change, and that the days of normality, “the way things are,” are numbered. The hero confronts the question of being asked to step into their deeper potential, to awaken the power within, and to enter a new, special world.

Many of us embark on inner-journeys following hardship in life — the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, physical or mental illness. This stage occurs when it becomes apparent that, to move through suffering, one has to look within, to adventure into the soul.

3. Refusal of the call

No compelling story would be complete without friction. The hero often resists this call to adventure, as fear and self-doubt surface at full force, and the purpose of this new life direction is questioned. Can the reluctant hero journey forth? Do they have the courage?

The only way to grow and live a deeply fulfilling life is to face the discomfort of suffering. Campbell himself once said: “ The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek .” At this stage, fears, and anxieties about delving deep into the psyche arise. The temptation is to remain blissfully ignorant, to avoid discomfort, and to stay in your familiar world.

4. Meeting a mentor

As the hero faces a crisis of confidence, a wise mentor figure appears.

This character offers inspiration, guidance, or understanding that encourages the hero to have the self-belief to start this new adventure. In many stories, a mentor is someone else who has embarked on the hero’s journey, or someone who attempted, and failed. This person reflects the importance of this mission, reminding the hero their calling far exceeds their fear.

When the journey of exploration has to begin, people or situations enter your life at just the right time, guiding you in the right direction. This could be a close friend, a peer, a professional, such as a coach or therapist, or even a fictional character in a film or book. In most cases, these are chance encounters that contain a sense of knowing before the hero leaves on his or her adventure.

5. Crossing the threshold

This is a pivotal moment in the hero’s journey, as the initiation begins. This occurs when the hero fully commits to their quest, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. This is the point of no return, where the reluctant hero embarks on their adventure, and has accepted that the way things were must change. The hero enters a new zone, one in which the call to adventure must be accepted. The hero’s resolve is hardened, and they understand they have a responsibility to confront what is ahead of them.

Whatever your life was before the call to action, this is a crossroads which is accepted, knowing your life may never be the same. This is a point of empowerment, where you realize that journeying within will lead you to greater self-understanding, even if those insights will dramatically change your life direction. 

6. Test, allies, enemies

Now the hero has ventured outside of their comfort zone, the true test begins. This is a stage of acclimatizing to unknown lands. Unknown forces work against them, as they form bonds with allies who join them along the way, or face formidable enemies or encounters that have to be conquered. Throughout this testing time, the hero will be shaped and molded through adversity, finding deeper meaning in their life and mission.

Once the journey of self-discovery is underway, the initial burst of inspiration might be tested by the difficulty of the task. You might meet people who are able to offer advice or guide you, or those who reflect areas of yourself you have to work on. 

Often, these are inner experiences, in the forms of memories, emotions, or outward tests, such as difficult circumstances that challenge your resolve and commitment to your new life direction.

7. Approach to the inmost cave

Having already crossed the threshold into the unknown and the uncertain, having faced obstacles and enemies, and having begun to utilize their qualities along the way, the next stage is another threshold. 

This is the beating heart of the hero’s challenge, where again self-doubt and fear can arise, as another threshold has to be crossed. This is often a period of respite, giving the hero time to pause and reflect. Will the hero make the leap?

The hero’s journey has ups and downs. There may be quick wins in the beginning — your new life direction may go well, or inner-work may lead you to a new place of calm or confidence. But then, out of nowhere, comes an even bigger challenge, surfacing as a question mark to the person you’ve become. Life often has a way of presenting the right challenges at the right time…

This is the life-or-death moment. This can be a meeting with an ultimate enemy or facing the hero’s deepest fear. There is an awareness that if the hero fails, their new world, or their life, could be destroyed. 

Everything the hero has fought for up to this point, all the lessons learned along the journey, all the hidden potentials actualized, will have to be utilized to survive this supreme ordeal, for the hero to be victorious. Either way, the hero will undergo a form of death, and leave the ordeal forever changed.

There are inner challenges that have to be confronted on the journey of self-discovery. This might be in the form of trauma that has to be confronted and healed, people with whom you have to have difficult conversations, or fears you have to face, actions that in the past you never thought you’d be capable of. But, with the skills you’ve learned along the way, this time you’ll be ready. But it won’t be easy.

9. Reward (seizing the sword)

Through great adversity comes triumph. Having confronted their greatest fear, and survived annihilation, the hero learns a valuable lesson, and is now fully transformed and reborn — with a prize as a reward. 

This object is often symbolized as a treasure, a token, secret knowledge, or reconciliation, such as the return of an old friend or lover. This prize can assist in the return to the ordinary world — but there are still a few steps to come.

When confronting deep inner fears or challenges, you are rewarded with deep insights or breakthroughs. That might be in the form of achieving a significant goal or inwardly having a sense of peace or reconciliation with your past, or moments that have previously felt unresolved. As a spiritual process, this may also be the realization that behind suffering and pain lies freedom or inner peace.

10. The road back

Having traveled into distant, foreign lands and slain the dragon, now it’s time for the hero to make their return journey. This stage mirrors the original call to adventure and represents another threshold. 

The hero may be understanding their new responsibility and the consequences of their actions, and require a catalyst to make the journey back to the ordinary world with their prize.

The hard work has been done, the ultimate fear confronted, new knowledge found. Now, what’s the next step? For many, the initial stages of growth come with a period of renunciation or are symbolized by an outward journey away from home, or away from familiarity. 

Then comes the stage of returning to familiarity, or the things left behind — be it family, friends, locations, or even behaviors that were once loved and sacrificed during the journey.

11. Resurrection

When it appears the hero is out of the woods, there comes a final confrontation — an encounter with death itself. Transformed inwardly and with a personal victory complete, the hero faces a battle that transcends their individual quest, with its consequences far-reaching, for entire communities or even humanity itself. 

This purification solidifies the hero’s rebirth, as their new identity fully emerges just in time to return to the ordinary world.

In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, self-actualization is secondary to self-transcendence. In other words, once inner battles have been faced, and the alchemy of psychological transformation is underway, the next stage is to apply the newfound insights and knowledge to a bigger cause — supporting others, or standing up a mission that will benefit the wider world.

12. Return with the elixir

Following the final battle, the hero finally returns home. By now, personal transformation is complete, they’re returning home a different person. Having faced indescribable hardship, the hero returns with added wisdom and maturity. The elixir is the treasure they’ve returned with, ready to share with the ordinary world. This could be a sense of hope, freedom, or even a new perspective to assist those originally left behind.

The hero has a new level of self-awareness, seeing the ordinary world through fresh eyes. They’ve left internal conflict behind. There’s an understanding that things will never be the same, but that the hero’s journey was part of their destiny. 

Then comes the ultimate prize: a final reconciliation, acceptance from the community, celebration, redemption. Whatever the prize, there are three elements: change , success , and proof of the journey .

Following a transformative psychic process, there’s an understanding of what is within your control. The “ordinary world” may have many elements that remain the same, but this is accompanied by a realization that when you change, so does your reality. Previously modes of thinking may be replaced, as bridges are built with your past, giving opportunity for a renewed approach to life.

What can we learn from the hero's journey?

At the time of writing this article, I’m in the UK visiting my family for the first time in 18 months. As I walked down paths I’d walked throughout my childhood, I was struck by how much I’ve changed over the years. A passage from T.S Eliot’s poem Little Gidding came to mind:

“We shall not cease from exploration. And the end of all our exploring. Will be to arrive where we started. And know the place for the first time.”

I reflected on the notion of coming full circle — to begin a journey, outwardly or inwardly, before finding yourself back at the beginning, transformed. In spiritual traditions, the circle is a powerful symbol of timelessness, death and rebirth, totality, and wholeness. Aptly, the 12 steps of the hero’s journey are depicted as a circle. It’s not a coincidence.

What can we learn from the hero’s journey? In a way, it is similar to the writer’s journey. Above all else, it’s a reminder that we each within us have a purpose, a quest and a mission in this life that can and will invoke our truest potential. The path isn’t easy — there are many, many challenges along the way. But at the right time, people and situations will come to our aid.

If you’re able to confront the mission head-on and take bold steps along the way — just like all the heroes of fiction before you, from Shakespeare’s characters to Luke Skywalker and Rey from the universe brought to us by George Lucas —  then you will be transformed, and then you can return to where you started, reborn, ready to share your gifts and your lessons with the world.

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Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra Shows Fight Between Captain America and Black Panther

• Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra features a World War 2 setting with Captain America, Black Panther, and new characters Gabriel and Nanali.
• Details about the game have been scarce, leaving fans to dissect the teaser trailer for clues about the unique storyline and characters.
• Heroes like Captain America and Black Panther will initially clash in Marvel 1943, but will likely come together to defeat the villainous Hydra organization.

Skydance Interactive’s Captain America and Black Panther team-up game is now officially titled Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra , and a new story trailer sees the two legendary heroes face off against each other. This World War 2-based superhero action title was first announced during a Disney and Marvel Games Showcase at D23 2022, with players taking control of Captain America, Black Panther, a Howling Commando named Gabriel Jones, and a Wakandan spy named Nanali as they battle the forces of Hydra across Paris and Wakanda during the Great War.

Very little information has been revealed about this newest Marvel video game in the year or so since its initial announcement, leaving fans to carefully pick apart Marvel 1943 's teaser trailer for clues and Easter eggs. For example, it is known that due to the World War 2 setting the Black Panther featured in the game isn’t the usual T’Challa, but rather his grandfather Azzuri the Wise. Earlier this month, the title of Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra was leaked online, and this has now been officially confirmed.

Skydances WW2 Marvel Game Can Be Authentic at a Necessary Cost

A new story trailer for Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra was just released, providing more information on the game’s WW2-focused plot. It begins with both Captain America and Black Panther getting wind of Hydra forces searching the streets of Paris for a mysterious item named “The Eye of Force.” However, Cap isn’t sure if he’s willing to trust “two too many” Super Soldiers loose in Paris. Meanwhile, Azzuri naturally wants to resolve the problem before “the American” gets involved in Wakandan affairs. This eventually leads to the two heroes coming into contact with each other, with the trailer ending right as Panther’s claws meet Cap’s shield.

Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra’s Heroes Are At Odds With One Another

The newly-released Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra story trailer also shows Gabriel Jones and Nanali supporting their respective partners during their mission in Marvel 1943 's war-torn streets of Paris , as well as some scenes of Captain America and Black Panther in action that could provide a hint about their playstyles. Cap seems to take a direct approach with enemies, knocking down Hydra grunts and using his trusty shield as a projectile. Meanwhile, Panther can be seen climbing and jumping on rooftops and taking down foes from behind.

It looks like the heroes of Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra won’t be on the same page at first, with Captain America and Black Panther even coming to blows at one point in the story. They will presumably put aside their differences and join forces to stop Marvel 1943 's villainous Hydra organization from enacting whatever evil plot the “Eye of Force” entails, but players will have to wait until Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra launches in 2025 to see how Skydance and Marvel’s first gaming collaboration plays out.

Marvel is a brand associated with a wide array of popular superhero comics, movies, television shows, and merchandise. The company owns the rights to popular characters like The Avengers, Spider-Man, Black Panther, Deadpool, and many more.