1. Call to Adventure
a. The hero receives a call to set out on a difficult journey.
2. Reject the Call
a. The hero initially resists the call, often due to fear or feelings of inadequacy.
3. Meet a Mentor
a. The hero encounters a mentor or supernatural helper who provides guidance and advice.
4. Cross Threshold/Enter Unknown
a. The hero crosses a symbolic threshold into an unknown world.
5. Tests and Trials
a. The hero faces a series of tests or trials designed to test his or her strength and character.
6. Approach to Innermost Cave
a. The hero must overcome a powerful fear to reach the innermost part of the cave.
7. Meeting the Divine
a. The hero encounters the object of the quest, often a divine being or symbol of power.
8. Reward
a. The hero is given a reward for his or her success.
9. The Road Back
a. The hero must return to the ordinary world.
10. Resurrection/New Life
a. The hero is reborn or undergoes some form of personal transformation.
11. Return with Gift
a. The hero returns to the ordinary world with a gift, often a spiritual knowledge or wisdom.
Other Stages
Beyond the stages above, other components of the epic hero cycle may include prophecies, a magical journey, an unhealable wound, a sacrifice, and a moment of doubt or despair.