Christopher Vogler The Writers Journey
Even if physical gifts are given, Mentors also strengthen the hero's mind to face an
ordeal with confidence. Menos also means courage.
AVOIDING M E N T O R CLICHÉS
T h e audience is extremely familiar with the M e n t o r archetype. T h e behaviors,
attitudes, and functions o f W i s e O l d W o m e n and M e n are well known from thou
sands o f stories, and it's easy to fall into clichés and stereotypes — kindly fairy
godmothers and white-bearded wizards in tall M e r l i n hats. To combat this and
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MEETING WITH THE MENTOR
keep your writing fresh and surprising, defy the archetypes! Stand them on their heads,
turn them inside out, purposely do without them altogether to see what happens. T h e
absence of a M e n t o r creates special and interesting conditions for a hero. But be
annaabi.ee 
