Annotated Bibliography

Vogler, Christopher. “The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers." Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 1998 p. 230-290

Summary
This reading included the epilogue, in which we look back on the hero’s journey. Vogler analyzes Titanic, Pulp Fiction, The Lion King, and the Full Monty because the films really use his structure of the journey. “The hero’s journey model is a guideline.” (Vogler, page 231) For example, in the Lion King, Simba is a classic hero in his ordinary world and knows that he will one day be king. (Vogler, page 258) This is a calling that most of us can never relate too. He receives other calls as well; “the temptation to explore the forbidden zone, a call of childhood romance from Nala, and most drastically, the death of his father that calls him to enter a new phase of life in which he has to run away to survive.” (Vogler, page 261) He also has many mentors. His father is his teacher that shows him what kingship is like and the Circle of Life. (Vogler, page 261) Vogler also points out that Nala was like a shape shifter to Simba, changing from a young cub to a beautiful, powerful lioness. (Vogler, page 261)

Reflection
It was hard for me to relate to most of these movies because I have never seen them, but the Lion King is one of my favorite movies of all time. Besides loving the soundtrack, the storyline was great as well. Now that I think back to the Lion King, I can really see Simba’s Hero’s Journey, and am now able to analyze the journey in depth. All in all, Vogler was able to really show me his model in different texts and movies.

questions
1) What movie most reminds you of the hero's journey?
2) Do you agree with Vogler's analysis of the movies he mentioned in this section?