"Crossing the First Threshold" and "Tests, Allies, Enemies"

Summary
In this section of Vogler’s text, he describes two new parts of the hero’s journey, “Crossing the First Threshold” and “Test, Allies. Enemies.” Crossing into the first threshold is the first point in the story when the hero experiences two different worlds. The main obstacle in this portion of the journey is the threshold guardian, an archetype that was introduced earlier in the text. After defeating the threshold guardian, the hero must take a “leap of faith” into the new world. Next, Vogler describes different aspects of the new world. For instance, the first thing that the audience will mostly notice is the contrast between the ordinary world and the new world. Also, the hero will be faced with a series of tests in the new world. He/she will meet enemies during the tests. During the hero’s quest for knowledge, he will most likely meet allies and friends along the way as well.

Reaction
This portion was laid out similarly to the rest of Vogler’s text. I find it helpful that in each section Vogler explains more of the archetypes and how they fit into different parts of the journey. For instance, in the “Crossing the First Threshold” chapter, Vogler further explains the place and purpose of the Threshold Guardian. Also, Vogler follows up every chapter with how it compares to The Wizard of Oz. I find this portion of the chapter very helpful, because Vogler helps the reader to relate with modern culture. Another modern film that Vogler uses to better explain the threshold is Beverly Hills Cop. Having seen the film several times as a child, Vogler’s connection brought his ideas into a more vivid perspective.

Reflection
During the “Crossing the First Threshold” chapter, Vogler states that “They [the hero] may crash in the other world, literally or figuratively” (Vogler 130) I find it interesting that Vogler identifies how the hero’s leap of faith may result in a “rough landing.” In Metamorphosis, the main character, Gregor, is forced into the new world, when his body is literally transformed into a cockroach. The story does not appear to fit the hero’s journey mold at first but taking a closer look at the text proves that with a little analyzing the story parallel’s Vogler’s theories. Obviously, Gregor was faced with a rough landing when he was suddenly in the body of a cockroach. I found it interesting to apply Vogler’s terminology to the strange circumstances in the Metamorphosis.

Questions
1. Who are the threshold guardians in some of the pieces we read?
2. Have you ever taken a personal leap of faith?
3. How can allies be beneficial to the hero?