"The myth of the hero is a mirror of our own heroic struggles for individuality, creativity, and self-expression." J. F. Bierlein
Joseph Campbell's rendering of the mythical "hero's journey" provides us with a metaphoric lens through which we may view Carl Jung's process of "individuation," a transforming pilgrimage towards wholeness and soulfulness. Each time we enter a new life stage or period of transition, we are embarking on adventure, travelling into unknown territory. Mythical stories can help us to negotiate our own life transitions by providing us with directives on how to proceed. By examining our own life journeys through the lens of myth, we can learn how to recognize the next journey. Knowing ahead of time that we are embarking on a new quest, we are better positioned to understand and deal with any obstacles we may face along the way, and, to appreciate the gifts of self-discovery and personal growth such a journey can bring.
The hero is not always happy about leaving the familiar for the unfamiliar, but she comes to know that the journey has a purpose, and that there will be signposts along the way: "This heroic way offers depth of insight and meaning. It is attentive to guides along the way, and invigorates creative life (Estes, 2003)." The "boon" or treasure she gains is her own self-development: "a higher way of holding and conducting oneself (Estes, 2003)." The journey is a chance for the hero to connect with her Self.
YOU ARE READING
The Heroic Journey : Myth, Psyche & Tarot
No FicciónA Jungian-influenced exploration of the Tarot Major Arcana. The Heroic Journey is a magical adventure into the realm of symbolic ordeals and spiritual quests, a mythical road map that leads the Hero to realize her inner Power and Wisdom, and to make...
