Critical essay examining the application of one or more of the stages of the hero’s journey (or the monomyth) in Tolkiens short story Leaf by Niggle. One of the stages it should look at is refusal of the call.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
The Hero’s Journey in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Leaf by Niggle”: Exploring the Refusal of the Call
J.R.R. Tolkien’s short story “Leaf by Niggle” intricately weaves elements of the hero’s journey, a narrative structure that follows a protagonist through various stages of personal growth and transformation. One of the pivotal stages in this journey is the “Refusal of the Call,” where the hero hesitates or outright rejects the initial summons to adventure. Through an analysis of this stage in the context of Niggle’s journey, we can unravel deeper themes of self-discovery, purpose, and redemption within Tolkien’s poignant tale.
The Hero’s Journey and “Leaf by Niggle”:
1. Ordinary World:
In the ordinary world of “Leaf by Niggle,” we are introduced to Niggle, a meticulous painter consumed by his artistic pursuits but plagued by distractions and obligations that hinder his creative endeavors. Niggle’s world is one of isolation, where his artistic vision remains unfulfilled.
2. Call to Adventure:
The call to adventure in Niggle’s story manifests in the form of an urgent request for him to embark on a journey, symbolized by his neighbor Parish requesting assistance in a time of need. This call disrupts Niggle’s solitary existence and presents an opportunity for growth and selflessness.
3. Refusal of the Call:
The refusal of the call emerges when Niggle hesitates to respond to Parish’s plea for help. Preoccupied with his artistic pursuits and consumed by his personal vision of painting a vast tree, Niggle initially resists the call to assist others, viewing it as an unwelcome interruption to his creative endeavors.
4. Consequences of Refusal:
Niggle’s reluctance to heed the call results in missed opportunities for connection, empathy, and selflessness. His fixation on his own artistic ambitions blinds him to the needs of others, leading to feelings of guilt and unfinished business as he faces the consequences of his refusal.
5. Acceptance and Growth:
As Niggle embarks on a journey beyond his earthly existence, he is confronted with the consequences of his earlier refusal. Through acts of kindness, selflessness, and redemption, Niggle undergoes a transformative experience that transcends his artistic ambitions and leads to a deeper understanding of purpose and interconnectedness.
Themes Explored:
– Selfishness vs. Selflessness: The refusal of the call highlights Niggle’s initial selfishness and reluctance to prioritize others over his own desires.
– Redemption and Growth: Niggle’s eventual acceptance of his role in helping others signifies a journey towards redemption, personal growth, and self-realization.
– Purpose and Connection: The hero’s journey in “Leaf by Niggle” underscores themes of purpose, interconnectedness, and the transformative power of selfless acts.
Conclusion:
In “Leaf by Niggle,” Tolkien masterfully incorporates elements of the hero’s journey, particularly the stage of refusal of the call, to explore themes of self-discovery, altruism, and redemption. Through Niggle’s journey from self-absorption to selflessness, readers are reminded of the importance of empathy, connection, and embracing opportunities for growth beyond one’s personal ambitions. By delving into the complexities of human nature and the transformative power of compassion, Tolkien invites us to reflect on our own responses to life’s calls to adventure and the potential for personal growth that lies within.
This critical essay delves into J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Leaf by Niggle” through the lens of the hero’s journey, focusing on the stage of refusal of the call as experienced by the protagonist Niggle. By analyzing Niggle’s initial reluctance to assist others and its consequences, this exploration sheds light on deeper themes of selflessness, redemption, and personal growth within Tolkien’s evocative narrative.
