Final answer:
In literature, the tasks a hero must complete are outlined in Joseph Campbell's 'Hero's Journey' and serve to test the hero, develop their character, and advance the story. The role of a hero reflects cultural values, providing inspiration and moral guidance through their narrative journey. Literary analysis involves connecting the hero's character to the journey's stages and understanding the story's themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
In literary terms, the tasks a hero must complete often align with the narrative structure known as Joseph Campbell's 'Hero's Journey' or the Monomyth. This structure works as a template for storytelling across various cultures, featuring a series of events that shape the protagonist's character and advance the story. Throughout the Hero's Journey, the protagonist or 'hero' faces trials and tribulations, which fulfill several functions: they test the hero's resolve and ability, contribute to character development, serve as a vehicle for the hero to acquire new skills or knowledge, and, importantly, move the plot forward. For instance, individual tasks might force the hero to confront personal fears or flaws, develop virtues such as bravery or wisdom, and often lead to the hero achieving some crucial objective vital to their story.
Culturally, heroes and 'she-roes' illustrate the values and beliefs of a society. They can be rewarded or recognized in various ways, such as through storytelling, monuments, or societal honors, reflecting the respect and admiration of their communities. Furthermore, it is crucial for cultures to construct narratives about their experience because they allow individuals to explore universal human themes and learn through the modeled behavior of heroes. These narratives often provide a source of inspiration, offer moral guidance, and create a shared sense of identity within a culture.
Literary Analysis and the Hero Archetype
When performing a literary analysis, it is beneficial to examine how a story's hero reflects the themes and motifs of the 'Hero's Journey.' Reading through pieces of literature, one can identify the different stages of the journey and relate them to the hero's character development and the story's overarching themes.