What is a typical function of the Mentor in the Hero's Journey?

• A. Provide unwavering doubt and hesitation.
• B. Force the hero to stay in the Ordinary World.
• C. Provide confidence, insight, training, or magical aid to help the hero face fear and the threshold.
• D. Ensure the hero remains passive.

Answer: (C)

The mentor’s job is to equip the hero for what lies ahead. They offer confidence, insight, training, or even a magical aid that helps the hero face fear and cross the threshold into the unknown. This guidance can come as practical instruction, a moral or strategic push, or a tangible tool or gift that shifts the hero from hesitation to action. Think of mentors as the seasoned ally who prepares the hero for the challenges to come, rather than someone who stirs doubt, traps the hero in the ordinary world, or keeps them passive.