A Hero's Journey is a staple of of the writing world, with examples from all over the world dating back to ancient times. While the modern "traditional" recipe is the one published by Joseph Campbell, this easy weeknight version will have you "returning with the elixir" in 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 Being that Personifies Evil
- 1 Mentor Figure
- 1 Hero with Hidden Potential
- 1 MacGuffin
- 1 Vaguely Defined Realm
- 1 Package of Mixed Complications
Instructions:
1. Add the Being that Personifies Evil to the Vaguely Defined Realm. This will cause the Vaguely Defined Realm to turn into "poor condition." Don't worry, this is normal.
2. In a separate area, set the Hero with Hidden Potential alongside the Mentor Figure. This will bring out the Hero's Hidden Potential and then prepare it for the MacGuffin.
3. Add the Hero and Mentor Figure to the Vaguely Defined Realm. Shortly after, add the Package of Mixed Complications and bring to a boil.
4. Allow Mixed Complications to simmer. This brings out the Hero's Potential to its fullest. Simmering may kill off the mentor figure, but that's okay. If you prefer to keep your mentor figure, set it aside halfway through to add back in at the end.
5. Once the Mixed Complications have broken down, you will notice that the Being that Personifies Evil will also break down. The Vaguely Defined Realm will now turn into "good condition."
6. Add the MacGuffin and allow the Hero to retrieve it. Serves 1-3 stories.
Tips and Tricks
- To serve more stories, add multiple beings that personify evil, but try and keep them related.
- To quickly add Romantic Tension, personify your MacGuffin to be your Hero's Love Interest.
- For an easy extra blast of pizzaz, add a Cool Weapon that can only be wielded by the Hero.
- While it is possible to use a Thoroughly Defined Realm, keep in mind you may need to use factions as Thoroughly Defined Realms are not as easily influenced by single characters the way Vaguely Defined Realms are.
- Based on preference, you can use a different package of Complications (ex. all battles, all emotional turmoil, all fighting the elements, etc.) Make sure to match your Hero's Hidden Potential, though, or the Complications will overpower them.