Part 1: Chapter 3, Sections 1, 2 and 3 Summary and Analysis

"The Journey of the Hero" - "Return" - "Refusal of the Return" In this brief section, Campbell comments how in several mythic tales the Hero, who has accomplished his task (rescuing the princess, retrieving the sought-after source of power, achieving long-sought wisdom or enlightenment, is faced with the responsibility of returning with what he has gained and sharing it with the world. Campbell also indicates, however, in many such stories the Hero decides to not return - to remain at the site/source of happiness, wisdom, etc. As examples he cites the stories of several saints who chose to die while in deep communion with God as opposed to returning to the world and preaching God's word. He also quotes at length the Hindu story of a warrior who achieved enlightenment, returned to his world...