ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Hero's journey

Imagine you're a little boy in a playground, and you're about to go on an adventure. You put on your cape, and you set out on the journey. On your way, you meet different creatures and people. Some are friendly, and some are not.

As you travel, you face challenges and obstacles. But you don't give up. You keep going because you have a goal you want to achieve. You want to save someone or do something important.

The hero's journey is like your adventure. In movies, stories, and books, the hero goes on a journey too. There are always different stages it goes through, and they can help you understand the story better.

The first stage is the "Call to Adventure." This is when the hero gets a message or a sign that they have to leave their ordinary life and go on a quest. It can be a letter, a dream, or a person who asks for help.

The second stage is "Crossing the Threshold." This is when the hero decides to leave their comfort zone and enters a new world. It can be a different country, a magical land, or an unknown place.

The third stage is "Tests, Allies, and Enemies." This is when the hero meets people who can help them, and people who want to stop them. They face challenges that test their skills and teach them valuable lessons.

The fourth stage is "Approach to the Inmost Cave." This is when the hero comes closer to the main goal, but they face their biggest challenge. They have to face their fears or confront the villain.

The fifth stage is "The Ordeal." This is when the hero faces the ultimate test. They have to risk everything to achieve their goal. They have to fight for what they want or sacrifice something important.

The sixth stage is "Reward." This is when the hero gets what they wanted. They saved someone or achieved their goal.

The seventh stage is "The Road Back." This is when the hero goes back home or tries to return to their ordinary life. But they're not the same person anymore. They learned important lessons and gained new skills.

The last stage is "Return with the Elixir." This is when the hero comes back with something valuable. They can use it to make their life better or help others.

The hero's journey is a pattern that many stories follow. It's an exciting adventure that teaches important lessons, and it's something you can enjoy too.