Representation of Archetypal Heroism in Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games

Abstract

This research looks into Suzanne Collins'sThe Hunger Games, from the vantage point of archetypal heroism. Joseph Campbell'sThe Hero with a Thousand Facesfurnishes important theoretical insights. With Campbell's view and the view of other suitable theorists like Jung, it shows the entire heroic overtures of Katniss are measured in relation to set attributes of an archetypal hero. An average girl afflicted with plenty of challenges and hardships struggles to rise above the limitations of the common run of humanity. The process of cultivating archetypal heroism starts from her willingness to volunteer her younger sister. Such an acceptance marks her heroic beginning. She participates as a tribute in the hunger game which is conducted by the ruler of Panem. Initiation is the first step in becoming an archetypal hero. During the game, various inner callings, guidance of premonition, dictation of intuition and coincidental occurrences contribute to Katniss's growing heroictendency.Having acquired all the qualities of an archetypal hero, Katniss returns to normal life. She mobilizes the mass and ultimately liberates them. Translating the dream of average people to reality is another shining quality of an archetypal hero which is manifested in Katniss.