The Hero's Journey Analysis

Henry Choo

EWRT 1A

12/8/16

The Hero's Journey In this modern world where language is of minor limitation, news is expeditious, and technology allows us to go where no one has gone before, boundaries take on a new nature. Each person is on a hero’s journey to contend with their own tribulations. Our salvation and hope is in overcoming these limitations. Joseph Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces has focused mythology on the alignment of humanity in our common purpose. Campbell has created a set of narratives to address the world as we come to know it. Specifically, John Logan was influenced by Campbell and developed The Last Samurai based on this concept of the hero's journey. This world mythology framework dispenses a fresh method for

The hero is now approaching a dangerous place, often restricted. It is in this hidden place where the hero obtains an object that assist the hero in his journey. This object may not always be physical and can also be special information. Algren is a prisoner of war in Katsumoto's village. It is here he receives a brand new perspective of the samurai warriors. At first the samurai were viewed as his enemies but he starts to find a new found respect for these people. It is then the hero sees the samurai as allies. Katsumoto then becomes the “mentor” for Algren. At this crucial turning point where the Hero desperately needs guidance he meets the mentor archetype. The mentor usually assist our hero in need of help. He could be given an object of great importance, insight into the dilemma he faces, wise advice, practical training or even self-confidence. Whatever the mentor provides the hero with, it serves to dispel his doubts and fears and give him the strength and courage to go on with their

The process of rebirth is the culmination of the hero's transformation. The hero emerges from the special world, transformed by his experience. This is the climax in which the Hero must have his final and most dangerous encounter with death. The final battle also represents something far greater than the Hero's own existence with its outcome having consequences to his ordinary world and the lives of those he left behind. If he fails, others will suffer and this not only places more weight upon his shoulders but in The Last Samurai, it grips the audience so that they too feel part of the conflict and share the Hero's hopes, fears and trepidation. Ultimately the Hero will succeed, destroy his enemy and emerge from battle transformed. Nathan Algren Chooses to side with the samurai even though there is a high probability he will die. He has chosen to be a part of something greater than him. Although he does not defeat the Japanese army, his heroic feat has made the Japanese army respect Algren and the