Examples Of A Hero Archetype

Another example of the hero archetype is in the Story of Macbeth. For a story to be a hero’s journey, there are usually 10 stages that it must follow. The first stage is usually known as the ordinary world. This is when the hero is introduced in such a way so the audience understands their situation. Macbeth is shown in this way since he is a general of king Duncan's army and he holds off an invading army. This gives the reader a good look at who macbeth is as a person. The next stage in this journey is a call to adventure, where some conflict arises and it forces the hero to act. While Macbeth is on his way to meet the king, he comes across 3 witches who tell Macbeth of his future, and it comes true. This leads him to seek out more knowledge
from them. Another important factor in a hero’s journey is crossing the threshold, where the hero leaves their own world and enters a new one. This can be metaphorically or literally. Macbeth does this metaphorically when he murders Duncan. This shows Macbeth entering a state where he can no longer return to his old life and must continue on this road he has created. Finally, one of the last important characteristics of a hero’s journey is (ironically) the resurrection. This is the final climax of the story line where the hero encounters death and has their final battle. Macbeth has this fight with Macduff and is slain. This battle, while not in macbeth's favor, is a purifying action for him. Macbeth is killed, and a better ruler takes his place. This ends the conflict that had risen and ends in a better life for everyone. This, in a way, was macbeth sacrificing his life for the good of humanity, like a true hero.