MONOMYTH Meaning and
Definition
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Monomyth refers to a narrative pattern or story structure that is found recurrently in various mythological and literary traditions across different cultures. Coined by the American mythologist Joseph Campbell, the term "monomyth" derives from the Greek words "mono" meaning one, and "mythos" meaning story or myth. Also known as the Hero's Journey, the monomyth describes a common template that underlies many stories and serves as a universal framework for the protagonist's journey.
The monomyth typically consists of three main stages: the Departure, the Initiation, and the Return. In the Departure phase, the hero is called to adventure and may experience a refusal or reluctance to embark on the journey. The Initiation phase involves the hero facing a series of challenges, meeting mentors, and undergoing transformations in order to fulfill their quest. Finally, the Return phase sees the hero bringing back knowledge, wisdom, or an important gift to their original society.
Although the specific details may vary, the monomyth's structure generally involves archetypal characters, such as the mentor, the threshold guardian, or the trickster, as well as symbolic elements, such as tests, trials, and the ultimate confrontation with a great enemy or evil. The monomyth provides a map of the hero's psychological and spiritual journey, reflecting the human experience of growth, self-discovery, and transformation. It serves as a timeless framework for understanding and analyzing various myths, epic tales, and even modern stories, as it resonates with universal themes and the collective consciousness of humanity.
Common Misspellings for MONOMYTH
Etymology of MONOMYTH
The word "monomyth" is derived from two Greek roots: "mono", meaning "single" or "one", and "mythos", meaning "story" or "myth". The term was coined by American mythologist Joseph Campbell in his influential book "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" published in 1949. Campbell used the term to describe a recurring mythic story pattern that he observed in various cultures and mythologies across the world. This pattern became known as the monomyth, hero's journey, or Campbell's Hero's Journey.
