Traditions and customs help keep things the same…or at least in the same spirit as the past. But life means growth and change, and that means transformation. We're never quite the same as we were a year ago, or five years ago, or ten years ago.
The heroes in The Hero with a Thousand Faces are the same way. Their adventures mean growing and changing—becoming stronger, wiser, and more skilled…and occasionally making mistakes and slipping backwards the way we all do. That's what connects them to us, with one of the fundamental truths of life.
Transformations are going on every day; life is all about transformation. And that's actually a pretty great thing, since it helps us connect to all those bigger issues.
Questions About Transformation
- Are there specified points in the Hero's Journey where transformation is supposed to take place? Where and why?
- Does the hero stop transforming once he or she has reached the goal?
- Which components of the Hero's Journey (other figure, landscapes, etc.) besides the hero undergo transformations?
- What purpose does transformation serve in the Hero's Journey?
Chew on This
Transformation is a means to an end, helping the hero (and us) achieve our true selves.
Transformation is an end unto itself, helping the world cycle and recycle constantly.