Summary:

Crossing the first threshold is when the hero stands at the edge of adventure, and the special world of act two.  Crossing the first threshold is an act of the will in which the hero commits wholeheartedly to the adventure.  Threshold guardians are the beings who try and block the hero from crossing the threshold. The task for the heros at this point is often to figure out some way around or through these guardians. Threshold Guardians who seem to be enemies may be turned into valuable allies.  At the crossing the hero must first take the leap of fate.  The hero doesn’t always land gently after the leap of fate.  The most important function of this period of adjustment to the special world is testing. Storytellers use this phase to test the hero, putting her through a serious of trails and challenges that are meant to prepare her for greater ordeals ahead. Another function of this stage is the making of allies or enemies. The testing stage may also provide the opportunity for the forging of a team. The strengths and flaws of the team members are revealed during testing. The hero also learn who his enemies are. The rival is a special kind of enemy. The rival is usually not out to kill the hero but just complete him in competition. Another hurdle the hero must get over is learning the new rules of this special word. An important place to gather information, meet people and learn about the journey ahead is the watering hole or a bar.

Reactions:

            I thought it was interesting how Vougler said that the hero doesn’t always land gently after taking a leap of fate. In life we don’t always get rewarded after we take chances. Sometimes when we are willing to confront challenges in our life and commit to our own adventures, things don’t work out right away. Getting committed is only part of the battle. I also thought it was interesting how Vougler talked about how, crossing the first threshold is when the hero is really tested. He said these tests are meant to prepare the hero for greater oreals ahead. I think this is true in life. Whenever we are tested weather is be academically, physically, or emotional it makes us stronger and wiser and more able to face the future.

Questions:

1.     Vougler talks about how strengths and flaws of team members are revealed during times of testing. Do you think that this is true of  your friends, that their strengths and flaws really shine through when your relationship, or your friends are tested?

2.     Do you think that a rival can be a good thing, and through competition with the hero push him to do his best?

3.     Can you think of a movie in which the rival is the actual catalyst to the hero’s success in his journey?