The Hero's Journey: Odysseus and Santiago

  The Hero's Journey: Odysseus and Santiago The Hero's Journey, as identified by Joseph Campbell, is a narrative pattern that can be found in many ancient myths and modern stories. This journey consists of various stages that a hero goes through on their quest for self-discovery and transformation. In the epic poem "The Odyssey" by Homer and the novel "The Old Man and the Sea" by Ernest Hemingway, both Odysseus and Santiago embark on their own Hero's Journey. This essay will focus on three stages of the Hero's Journey - the Call to Adventure, the Ordeal, and the Return - and explain how both characters successfully complete these stages, showcasing their archetypal hero status. The Call to Adventure The first stage of the Hero's Journey is the Call to Adventure, where the hero is presented with a challenge or an opportunity that sets them on their journey. In "The Odyssey," Odysseus is called to join the Greek forces in the Trojan War. He initially hesitates, as he is reluctant to leave his family and kingdom behind. However, he answers the call and sets sail for Troy, displaying his bravery and sense of duty as a hero. Similarly, in "The Old Man and the Sea," Santiago is presented with the opportunity to prove his worth as a fisherman when he decides to venture far out into the sea alone to catch a giant marlin. He is aware of the risks involved but embraces the challenge, demonstrating his determination and resilience as a hero. Santiago's decision to face the daunting task of catching the marlin symbolizes his personal quest for redemption and validation. The Ordeal The second stage of the Hero's Journey is the Ordeal, where the hero faces their greatest challenge or obstacle. In "The Odyssey," Odysseus encounters numerous trials on his long journey back home after the Trojan War. From battling monsters like Polyphemus the Cyclops to overcoming temptations such as the enchantress Circe, Odysseus must prove his wit, courage, and perseverance. His most significant ordeal comes when he confronts the suitors who have taken over his palace in his absence. Odysseus must outsmart them and reclaim his kingdom, ultimately proving himself as a true hero. Similarly, in "The Old Man and the Sea," Santiago faces an arduous struggle with the marlin he catches. The battle between man and fish becomes a test of Santiago's physical strength, endurance, and mental fortitude. Despite facing exhaustion, hunger, and pain, Santiago never gives up, demonstrating his indomitable spirit. Through this ordeal, Santiago proves himself worthy of respect from his fellow fishermen and finds redemption in his own eyes. The Return The final stage of the Hero's Journey is the Return, where the hero brings back their newfound knowledge or treasure from their adventure. In "The Odyssey," after enduring years of hardships, Odysseus returns to Ithaca disguised as a beggar. He skillfully plans and executes a plan to rid his kingdom of the suitors and reclaim his rightful place as king. Through this process, Odysseus learns valuable lessons about patience, humility, and leadership. His return symbolizes his transformation from a warrior to a wise ruler, solidifying his status as an archetypal hero. Similarly, in "The Old Man and the Sea," Santiago returns to his village after his epic battle with the marlin. Although he returns with only the skeletal remains of the fish, Santiago gains wisdom and inner strength from his experience. His return is met with admiration from the villagers who witness the evidence of his struggle. Santiago's journey teaches him about resilience, determination, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams, making him an archetypal hero in his own right. In conclusion, both Odysseus from "The Odyssey" and Santiago from "The Old Man and the Sea" undergo various stages of the Hero's Journey as identified by Joseph Campbell. They successfully complete the stages of the Call to Adventure, where they embrace their respective challenges, and the Ordeal, where they confront their greatest obstacles with courage and resilience. Finally, they return from their journeys transformed with newfound wisdom and self-discovery. Through these stages, both characters exemplify the qualities of an archetypal hero - bravery, determination, resilience - making them timeless figures in literature. References: Homer. (8th century BCE). "The Odyssey." Hemingway, E. (1952). "The Old Man and the Sea."  

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