The Writers Journey Mythic Structure For Writers Pdf
If you're an aspiring writer, you've probably heard of the Hero's Journey. This concept, developed by Joseph Campbell, has been used as a template for storytelling for decades. But what if there was another approach to storytelling that can help you make your stories more compelling? That's where The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure For Writers Pdf comes in. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into this structure and how you can use it to create stories that resonate with your readers.
What Is The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure?
The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure was developed by Christopher Vogler, a Hollywood story analyst. Vogler was inspired by Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey and his book, The Hero With a Thousand Faces. But instead of applying the structure to myths and legends, Vogler used it to analyze and write screenplays. He wrote a memo on this structure, which eventually became his book, The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure For Writers.
The structure is based on the idea that there are certain archetypes and motifs that are present in most successful stories. These archetypes and motifs are based on universal human experiences and emotions, making them relatable to readers and viewers. The structure is divided into three acts, each with its own set of stages and archetypes.
The Three Acts of The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure
The three acts of The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure are:
Act One: Separation
The first act is all about separation. The hero is introduced to their ordinary world, which is disrupted by a call to adventure. The hero may refuse the call at first, but eventually, they embark on a journey that takes them out of their comfort zone. Along the way, they meet mentors and allies who help them navigate the challenges they face.
Act Two: Initiation
The second act is the initiation. The hero faces a series of tests and challenges, which help them grow and transform. They may face their darkest fears and confront their flaws. Eventually, they face the biggest challenge of all: the ordeal. This is the moment of truth, where the hero faces their ultimate enemy and overcomes them.
Act Three: Return
The third act is the return. The hero returns to their ordinary world, but they are changed. They have gained new skills and knowledge, and they use these to make the world a better place. They may face one final challenge before they can fully integrate their newfound wisdom into their lives.
The Archetypes of The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure
Along with the stages of the journey, The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure also includes archetypes. Archetypes are universal characters that appear in myths and stories across cultures. These archetypes represent different aspects of the human psyche, making them relatable to a wide audience. In The Writer's Journey, Vogler identifies 12 archetypes:
- The Hero
- The Mentor
- The Threshold Guardian
- The Herald
- The Shapeshifter
- The Shadow
- The Trickster
- The Ally
- The Guardian
- The Shape
- The Big Struggle
- The Battle
How to Use The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure for Your Writing
Now that you know what The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure is, how can you use it to improve your writing? Here are some tips:
1. Start with the Hero
Identify your hero and their ordinary world. What is their flaw or weakness that makes them relatable? What do they want? What is their call to adventure?
2. Plan the Stages of the Journey
Once you know your hero and their world, plan out the stages of the journey. What challenges will they face along the way? Who will help them? What is the ultimate enemy they will face?
3. Choose the Archetypes
Decide which archetypes will appear in your story. Who will be the hero's mentor? Who will be the threshold guardian? What about the shadow?
4. Think About the Theme
What is the theme of your story? What message do you want to convey? Make sure that your theme is present throughout the story.
5. Use The Writer's Journey as a Guide, Not a Formula
While The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure is a powerful tool, it's important to remember that it's a guide, not a formula. Don't be afraid to deviate from the structure if it helps your story.
In Conclusion
The Writer's Journey Mythic Structure is a powerful tool for writers. By following its stages and archetypes, you can create stories that resonate with your readers and have a lasting impact. Remember to use it as a guide, not a formula, and always keep your theme in mind. With practice and persistence, you can become a master storyteller.
