The first step of the initiation stage of the hero’s journey is the Road of Trials. This part of the journey is when the hero confronts their most significant challenges. The hero has to survive these trials. My story will feature trials that the main character, Beren, will face. There are two examples of the road of trials.
Example one: In The Empire Strikes Back, Luke Skywalker’s training as a Jedi under the teaching of Yoda.
Example two: In Kingdom of Heaven, Balian has to go against the fallacies of being human that are greed, hatred, cowardice, selfishness, power hungry, violent, lying, sinful, and religious fanaticism, to be charitable, chivalrous, brave, a protector, truthful, pure, accepting, humble, and moderate. Here is a quote from the movie that serves as an oath about what being a knight means, and it is my favorite because it’s so empowering.
“Be without fear in the face of your enemies. Be brave and upright that God may love thee. Speak the truth always, even if it leads to your death. Safeguard the helpless and do no wrong. That is your oath.”