NOTE: For a history and breakdown of the Hero’s Journey concept see my prologue article, The Hero’s Path. This examination of Rey’s Journey will mainly follow Christopher Vogler’s outline of the Hero’s Journey—with several of Campbell’s steps mentioned. It will also follow the chronological plot of the film, rather than a strictly linear outline of […]
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THE HERO’S PATH: Background and Examination of The Hero’s Journey
“A hero ventures forth from the world of common day into a region of supernatural wonder: fabulous forces are there encountered and a decisive victory is won: the hero comes back from this mysterious adventure with the power to bestow boons on his fellow man.” —Joseph Campbell, The Hero with a Thousand Faces NOTE: […]
Analysis of The Force Awakens — Luke Skywalker: The Resolving of Gray
The premise that Luke has vanished is immediately intriguing. Like most people, I assumed when Episode 7 was first announced that Luke would be a central mentor figure from the beginning, having reestablished some form of Jedi Order. His absence raises many questions: Why is he missing? How long has he been gone? What could […]
Analysis of The Force Awakens — Chewbacca: Mighty and Loyal Friend to the End
Chewie is the same old lovable Wookiee in The Force Awakens, with his grumpy reactions to Finn’s attempts at first aid, his complaints about the cold on Starkiller, and his childish assertions to the Resistance doctor that he acted very bravely. He also remains a loyal and fierce ally. When Han returned to his old […]
Analysis of The Force Awakens — Han Solo: From Cynical Smuggler to Believing Mentor
The portrayal of Han in The Force Awakens was one of the few things I was worried about leading up to the premiere. There were many fans I encountered who believed Han was the type of character who would never settle down and have a family, but that, to me, ignores his entire character arc […]
Analysis of The Force Awakens — Rey: A Hero’s Awakening
While Rey is in many ways an obvious reflection of Luke and Anakin, she also has a unique twist to her starting point. Unlike Luke, and even Anakin, Rey has no family to support her in her struggle to survive in the harsh environment of Jakku. There is no wasting time with friends or picking […]