Heroes and Tragic Figures

Joseph Campbell once said, “[A] hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” This definition suggests that heroes are individuals who prioritize others above themselves, often overcoming significant obstacles with qualities of courage, humility, and compassion. They become figures people look up to, embodying traits we wish to see in ourselves. This perspective on heroism invites us to explore the characters of Nayeli from Luis Alberto Urrea’s "Into the Beautiful North" and Prospero from William Shakespeare’s "The Tempest.

" By examining their journeys through the frameworks of Campbell’s "Hero’s Journey" and Aristotle’s "Tragic Figure," we can assess their strengths and weaknesses and determine who truly embodies the essence of heroism.

Into the Beautiful North

Luis Alberto Urrea’s novel, "Into the Beautiful North," follows Nayeli, a nineteen-year-old girl from Los Tres Camarones, a small village in Mexico. Her journey to the United States, spurred by personal and communal motivations, aligns with the twelve stages of Campbell’s "Hero’s Journey."

The Ordinary World and Call to Adventure

Nayeli’s ordinary world is her troubled village, overrun with drugs and devoid of protection, as all the men have left for the United States. Her call to adventure comes after watching "The Magnificent Seven," inspiring her to embark on a mission to recruit men from the U.S. to save her village. This decision marks a deviation from her normal life, pushing her into an uncertain future.

Refusal of the Call and Meeting the Mentor

Though Nayeli never outright refuses her call, she faces numerous challenges that test her resolve. Her journey is fraught with danger, exemplified when she encounters corrupt officers and deceitful strangers. Despite these setbacks, mentors like Tia Irma and Atomiko guide her, offering support and wisdom crucial for her journey. Tia Irma, as the village’s first female mayor, instills in Nayeli resilience and courage, while Atomiko’s loyalty and protection become indispensable.

Crossing the Threshold and Facing Trials

Nayeli’s crossing of the threshold occurs when she enters the U.S., confronting a reality far harsher than expected. Here, the tests, allies, and enemies stage is vividly depicted as she navigates hostility and betrayal, relying on her friends and unexpected allies like Agent Arnold to continue her mission.

Approach to the Inmost Cave and Ordeal

As Nayeli nears her goal, her journey becomes more personal. The ordeal comes when she discovers her father’s new life, shattering her hopes of familial reunion. This moment forces Nayeli to let go of personal desires, reinforcing her commitment to the larger mission of saving her village.

Reward and the Road Back

Nayeli’s reward is the gathering of her "Magnificent Seven," a symbolic victory that empowers her return to Mexico. The road back is eased by allies like Agent Arnold, who ensure her safe passage home, underscoring the communal nature of her success and the support system she developed.

Resurrection and Return with the Elixir

Nayeli’s resurrection arises from her emotional growth and resolve, emerging stronger from personal disillusionment. Her return with the elixir manifests in the knowledge and strength she brings back to Los Tres Camarones, revitalizing her community and restoring balance.

The Tempest

In stark contrast, William Shakespeare’s "The Tempest" presents Prospero as a tragic figure, driven by revenge and hubris. Analyzing his journey through Aristotle’s tragic elements reveals the complexity of his character.

Hamartia and Hubris

Prospero’s downfall begins with his hamartia, or fatal flaw, of excessive trust in his brother Antonio, which leads to his betrayal and exile. His hubris, or excessive pride, blinds him to his own shortcomings, fueling his desire for vengeance and control over others.

Peripeteia and Anagnorisis

Prospero’s peripeteia, or reversal of fortune, occurs when he loses his dukedom and is isolated on an island. His anagnorisis, or moment of critical discovery, comes as he orchestrates the storm to reclaim his power, realizing the futility of revenge as he observes Miranda and Ferdinand’s love.

Nemesis and Catharsis

Prospero’s nemesis is self-inflicted, as his obsession with revenge alienates him from his daughter and humanity. Ultimately, his catharsis occurs when he chooses forgiveness over vengeance, accepting his losses and embracing his role in Miranda’s future.

Conclusion

By comparing Nayeli’s hero’s journey with Prospero’s tragic path, it becomes evident that Nayeli embodies the true spirit of heroism. Her journey is one of selfless determination, overcoming personal and external obstacles to achieve a greater good. In contrast, Prospero’s journey is marred by selfish motives and a delayed realization of his faults. Through the lens of Campbell’s and Aristotle’s frameworks, Nayeli’s story stands as a testament to the power of resilience and altruism, making her the true hero in this comparative analysis.

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