Vogler pg.'s 105-127

Summary
In this section of the reading Vogler describes the "Refusal of the Call" and "Meeting with the Mentor." Refusal of the call is a temporary road block along the heroes journey that is a natural response until the refusal is overcome or the stakes are raised. Heroes may try and avoid the call with excuses or another conflicting call. However, some heroes are more willing than others and may even seek out adventure themselves, but they may be halted by a threshold guardian along the way. Threshold guardians serve to question the hero's motives and willingness for adventure before they begin their journey, as well as creating emotional suspense in the story. Meeting with the mentor is critical to the story because the hero acquires knowledge, tools, confidence, and guidance from this figure in order to prepare for some aspect of the journey. The mentor may not be a person but rather a source of wisdom that the hero consults such as a map or chart. In myth mentors are usually known for giving magical gifts or being magical protectors themselves; Chiron, the half-man/half-horse is a popular Greek mentor who is a prototype for wise old men and women. The true "Mentor" is actually Odysseus' friend but the manifestation of the mentor archetype is seen through the character Athena. She helps Telemachus out of many situations while Odysseus is away, intervening throughout the story with guidance, wisdom, and gifts. Her appearances are important to get Telemachus past his doubts and fears, an essential function of the mentor. Although the mentor is usually seen as a positive influence on the hero sometimes the relationship can take a turn for the worst.

Reaction
Although Vogler incorporates "The Refusal of the Call" into one of the steps of the heroes journey I don't necessarily think that it is needed in every story. If a hero is willing and ready to take on the quest then the refusal of the call isn't really applicable. Although, I do agree it is an important time to signal to the audience the journey may be risky, I also think in "The Call to Adventure" the dangers of the journey are already made obvious. When I think of a hero refusing a call I tend to think of the tragic hero and think this part of the journey makes the most sense to that specific hero. But, I do think "Meeting with the Mentor" is necessary to every story. I could not agree more with Vogler, "Some stories don't need a special character solely dedicated to perform the functions of this archetype, but at some point in almost any story, the Mentor functions of helping the hero are performed by some character or force, temporarily wearing the mask of the mentor" (124). Vogler's statement sums up the function of the mentor character and why he/she/it is important. A mentor can be the center of the story, or a hero that has gained enough experience to share it with others. Whoever or whatever the mentor is is not significant, yet the role they take on in the story will critically change and shape the heroes journey.

Reflection
Not only do "Refusal of the Call" and "Meeting with the Mentor" apply to stories, books, movies, and plays, they also are important in life. I can think of several times when I have thought I couldn't achieve something such as a grade in a certain class, and I sought out advice from a teacher or mentor figure to encourage me along. Eckerd has its own mentoring system here which is unlike other colleges. I think this is a great idea and a good alternative to leaving a student with no guidance throughout college on what classes to take or internship/job to get involved with. Eckerd recognizes the importance of the mentor figure in giving support and guidance and it's nice to know I can talk to someone when I need to. Also, having a mentor can push me to do something I normally wouldn't or give me the necessary tools to succeed. I have had a very positive experience with my mentor while at Eckerd and have done an independent study with his help.

Questions
1. Is there a story/movie where the hero does not come in contact with some source of wisdom before committing to the adventure?
2. What consequences/benefits does the hero gain from meeting with a mentor or source of wisdom?
3. In the example of the three little pigs refusing to open the door for the big bad wolf , do you agree with Vogler that they were wise or do you think they were cowardly heroes?