In "Atonement with the Father," Joseph Campbell discusses the role of the father figure in the hero's journey. Campbell explains that in this stage of the hero's quest, the hero is faced with a symbolic or literal confrontation with the father. This encounter often involves the hero reconciling with or overcoming the authority, wisdom, or power that the father represents.
1. The role of the father in the hero's journey can be seen as a metaphor for various aspects such as facing one's fears, confronting one's past, or accepting responsibility. The father figure is not just a biological or symbolic representation but serves as a catalyst for the hero's growth and transformation.
2. Campbell suggests that this phase can be likened to a form of initiation into the larger world. By overcoming the challenges posed by the father figure, the hero gains deeper insight, wisdom, or power that propels them further along their journey towards self-realization or enlightenment.
3. The encounter with the father can also be viewed as a symbolic death and rebirth. The hero, instead of simply conquering or appeasing the father, undergoes a profound transformation where the old self or identity "dies" to make way for a new, more enlightened version of themselves.
In summary, the role of the father in the hero's journey, as discussed by Campbell, encompasses metaphorical meanings, initiatory aspects, and symbolic death and rebirth, all contributing to the hero's personal growth and development throughout their quest.
