Annotation 6

Annotation 6

MLA:
Vogler, Christopher . The Writer's Journey : Mythic structure for writers . 3. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007.

Summery:
The fifth step in Voglars journey is crossing the first threshold. This is the act of will taken by the hero and shows that the hero is fully committed to completing the journey. The the steps leading up to this point affect how the hero reacts. They typically do not accept the advice or gifts from there mentor making this step hard. This step is also known as the “turning point” which is used in the three act movie set ups. A combination of internal and external events lead the hero to the next step of the journey. Also found in this step is one of the important characters. The threshold guardian blocks the heros way through the first threshold or encounter with fear. The hero must cross from the ordinary world into the world of the journey. This is called the crossing and it signifies the border between the two worlds. The crossing requires a type of courage called the leap of faith where the hero must believe in himself/ herself that he/ she can succeed. The sixth stage in Voglars journey is tests, allies, enemies. This is the readers first glimpse of the special world. The contrast has to be enough between the ordinary and the special so that there is a definite association between the two. In this step the hero is tested through challenges that will prepare the hero for grater ordeals that are ahead. Also in this stage the hero must find out who they can trust as friends and who they have to establish as enemies. In some stories this is where the hero develops a sidekick. Rivals are also established in this part of the journey and are used as encouragement for the hero to get what they want. This step basically teaches the hero the new rules in the special world.

Reaction:
Crossing the first threshold is the first part of the journey. The other steps lead up to this point but this is the first point in which the hero is faced with danger to achieve his/ her goal. It is not easy because then everyone could do it. The threshold guardian serves to separate the real heros from people who just want to have fame. In order to achieve this step one must have faith in the task at hand and has to decide what is worth fighting for. The sixth step serves to show contrast between the ordinary and special world. An example of this is in the Wizard of Oz when the special world is in color instead of black and white. The sixth step is important because the hero has to learn the rules of the game before they try to win.

Questions:

1. What is the purpose of the threshold guardian other than causing trouble for the hero? 
   
2. What is the importance of the 6th step if the hero only has one goal in the story? 
   
3. What are two ways a writer can show contrast between the ordinary world and the special world? 
   

Terms:

1. Leap of Faith- a special type of courage that is required in order for the hero to cross over into the world of the journey. 
   
2. Sidekick- an ally who generally rides with the hero and supports then in there adventure. 
   
3. Comical Sidekicks- they are allies who assist the hero but who also serve another purpose in the story. They provide comical relief in very tense situations. 
   
4. Rival- an enemy who serves as a heros competition in love, sports, business, or other activates.