The Situation and the Story

Synopsis

This guide to writing memoirs and first-person essays shows how to write by showing how to read and recognize the truth in the writing of others. The book, which grew out of the author's 15 years of teaching in M.F.A. programs, demonstrates the enduring truth speaker to be found in the work of well-known and less-know writers including Oscar Wilde,

Summary

Chapter 1: The Hero with a Thousand Faces

Summary:
This chapter introduces the concept of the "monomyth," or the universal hero's journey. Campbell argues that all stories, regardless of culture or time period, follow a similar pattern involving a hero who goes on an adventure, faces challenges, learns valuable lessons, and ultimately returns home transformed.

Real Example:
In J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," Frodo Baggins embarks on a journey to Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring. Along the way, he faces numerous trials and tribulations, including encounters with evil forces and moral dilemmas. Ultimately, he succeeds in his quest, returning home as a hero.

Chapter 2: The Call to Adventure

Summary:
This chapter discusses the various ways in which heroes are called to adventure. Campbell identifies three main types of calls: the "herald's call," where a wise old man or other mentor guides the hero towards their destiny; the "inner call," where the hero experiences an internal crisis that prompts them to embark on a journey; and the "shape-shifter's call," where the hero is tricked or coerced into adventure.

Real Example:
In the film "Star Wars: A New Hope," Luke Skywalker is called to adventure when he meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, an old man who reveals that Luke's father was a Jedi Knight. Luke is inspired by Obi-Wan's wisdom and agrees to train as a Jedi.

Chapter 3: The Road of Trials

Summary:
This chapter describes the challenges and obstacles that heroes face on their journeys. Campbell emphasizes that heroes must overcome not only external threats but also their own inner fears and weaknesses. These trials serve to test the hero's character and prepare them for their ultimate destiny.

Real Example:
In the novel "The Hunger Games," Katniss Everdeen faces numerous trials after being forced to volunteer for a deadly tournament. She must battle against other tributes, overcome physical and emotional challenges, and confront her own fears and insecurities.

Chapter 4: The Reward

Summary:
This chapter discusses the rewards that heroes receive for overcoming their challenges. These rewards can include physical objects (such as a treasure), psychological insights (such as self-knowledge), or spiritual transformations (such as a sense of purpose).

Real Example:
In the TV series "Breaking Bad," Walter White transforms from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher into a ruthless drug kingpin. While his actions bring him wealth and power, they also lead to his moral downfall. Ultimately, Walter's reward is a profound realization of the consequences of his choices.

Chapter 5: The Resolution

Summary:
This chapter examines the various ways in which heroes conclude their journeys. Campbell identifies four main types of resolutions: the "return to the ordinary," where the hero returns home as a changed person; the "heroic death," where the hero sacrifices their life for a greater cause; the "salvation of the world," where the hero brings about a significant change for the better; and the "refusal to return," where the hero remains on their journey indefinitely.

Real Example:
In the film "The Shawshank Redemption," Andy Dufresne escapes from prison and begins a new life in Mexico. While he never fully returns to his old life, he finds inner peace and fulfillment in his new surroundings.