In the narrative structure of the Hero’s Journey, as articulated by Joseph Campbell, the Call to Adventure and the Refusal of the Call are critical components that initiate the transformational arc of the protagonist. These stages serve not only to propel the narrative forward but also to deepen the character development, making them resonant and relatable to the audience. This essay examines the dynamics and implications of these stages within storytelling, drawing on classical and contemporary examples to illustrate their significance.
The Call to Adventure marks the moment when the equilibrium of the protagonist’s Ordinary World is disrupted. It introduces a challenge or quest that must be undertaken, often thrusting the protagonist from a zone of comfort into a realm of uncertainty and potential peril. This call is a narrative device that catalyzes the plot, demanding a response from the protagonist. It is typically delivered by a herald or occurs through an event that shakes the protagonist's mundane reality. For example, in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, Frodo Baggins receives the call when Gandalf informs him that the ring in his possession must be destroyed to prevent cataclysmic evil from overtaking their world.
Following the Call to Adventure, the protagonist often exhibits reluctance or outright refusal to take on the quest. This stage, known as the Refusal of the Call, introduces a layer of complexity to the character’s psychological portrait. The refusal is not merely a delay in the narrative progression; it is a mechanism that heightens the dramatic tension and enriches the character's internal conflict. This reluctance can stem from fear, a sense of inadequacy, or a simple desire to maintain the status quo. A poignant example of refusal can be found in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, where Atticus Finch initially hesitates to take on the defense of Tom Robinson, understanding the social upheaval it will likely cause.
The interaction between the Call to Adventure and the Refusal of the Call plays a crucial role in setting up the psychological depth of the protagonist. This interplay reflects a universal human truth: the conflict between the desire for safety and the drive towards growth. Engaging with this conflict, the protagonist becomes a mirror for the audience’s own fears and aspirations, establishing a deep emotional connection. The resolution of this conflict, leading to the eventual acceptance of the call, marks the true beginning of the protagonist’s journey.
From a narrative construction perspective, the Refusal of the Call also serves a functional purpose by providing the writer an opportunity to further delineate the stakes involved. It allows for the exploration of the world and supporting characters who may influence the protagonist’s decision. This is evident in Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games, where Katniss Everdeen’s initial reluctance to embrace her role as a hero is compounded by her protective feelings towards her family and her distrust of the political system.
Furthermore, the decision to accept the call often results in increased reader investment in the story. The protagonist’s commitment, following their initial reluctance, signals a shift in narrative gear from exposition towards rising action, setting the stage for the development of the plot and the deepening of thematic elements. This shift is critical for maintaining narrative momentum and ensuring that the story evolves in a compelling and dynamic manner.
In examining literary examples, one finds that the Call to Adventure and the Refusal of the Call are not mere formalities but are essential for crafting a narrative that is both engaging and meaningful. Luke Skywalker’s initial refusal to join Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars reflects his internal conflict and fear, making his eventual acceptance a moment of significant personal growth. Similarly, Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice initially refuses Mr. Darcy’s proposal due to her misconceptions and pride, setting the stage for her later realizations and character development.
The Refusal of the Call, as observed in narrative structures, is deeply entwined with the human condition and resonates with psychological underpinnings that are both universal and profound. When a protagonist hesitates or outright rejects the initial call to adventure, this response is not merely a narrative contrivance but a reflection of genuine human emotions and conflicts. This phase of the Hero’s Journey invites the audience to delve into the protagonist’s inner world, exploring the fears, doubts, and conflicts that define their human experience.
Psychologically, the Refusal of the Call can be interpreted as a manifestation of the inherent resistance to change that characterizes human behavior. Change, even when beneficial or necessary, often provokes anxiety and uncertainty. This resistance is rooted in a psychological desire for stability and predictability. The prospect of venturing into the unknown disrupts the equilibrium of the Ordinary World and challenges the protagonist's sense of security and identity. For instance, in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, Harry's initial reluctance to believe that he is a wizard and his hesitance to enter a world so drastically different from what he has known encapsulate this deep-seated fear of the unknown and the transformative.
This portrayal of fear and hesitation is crucial for developing empathy within the reader. Empathy arises from the recognition of shared experiences and emotions. When readers observe a character grappling with decisions that could lead to profound changes, they see a mirror of their own lives—times when they faced significant choices or changes. This shared emotional landscape fosters a connection between the reader and the protagonist, making the character’s journey feel more real and relatable.
The internal conflict that leads to the refusal also enhances the thematic depth of the narrative. It allows the exploration of themes such as courage, growth, and self-realization. As the protagonist wrestles with their decision, they engage in a psychological and moral introspection that enriches their character development. This introspection makes the eventual acceptance of the call a moment of significant personal growth and narrative catharsis. The audience witnesses not just a decision but a transformation—a move from fear to bravery, from uncertainty to resolution.
Moreover, the Refusal of the Call often introduces a critical tension between societal or external expectations and personal desires or fears. This tension highlights the protagonist’s individuality and the complexity of their motivations, which are not driven solely by the narrative needs but by a realistic portrayal of human psychology. For example, in Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations, Pip’s initial reluctance to leave his known life and the forge behind, despite the apparent greatness awaiting him, showcases his internal struggle between ambition and loyalty to his origins.
In conclusion, the Call to Adventure and the Refusal of the Call are foundational elements of the Hero’s Journey that serve multiple functions within a narrative. They initiate the central conflict, develop the protagonist’s character, and engage the audience through a universal psychological drama. By carefully crafting these stages, writers not only propel their narratives forward but also deepen the emotional and thematic resonance of their stories, ensuring that they leave a lasting impact on the audience.
