As a political strategist, one of the most powerful narrative tools we can utilize is the Hero’s Journey. This storytelling framework, identified by Joseph Campbell, follows a hero through various stages of growth, challenge, and transformation. In political campaigns, the Hero’s Journey can help craft compelling narratives that resonate with voters on a deep emotional level. Let’s explore how Donald Trump and J.D. Vance have used this archetypal path to shape their political images and connect with their audiences.
What is the Hero’s Journey?
The Hero’s Journey is a common narrative structure that includes several stages:
- The Ordinary World: The hero starts in a mundane setting, unaware of their potential.
- The Call to Adventure: The hero is presented with a challenge or opportunity.
- Refusal of the Call: The hero hesitates, facing doubts and fears.
- Meeting the Mentor: The hero encounters a mentor who provides guidance.
- Crossing the Threshold: The hero commits to the journey, leaving the ordinary world.
- Tests, Allies, and Enemies: The hero faces challenges and builds relationships.
- Approach to the Inmost Cave: The hero prepares for a significant challenge.
- The Ordeal: The hero faces a major hurdle or crisis.
- The Reward: The hero gains a reward or achieves a goal.
- The Road Back: The hero begins the return journey, often facing additional challenges.
- The Resurrection: The hero is transformed by their experiences.
- Return with the Elixir: The hero returns to the ordinary world, bringing new wisdom or power.
This structure is not only prevalent in mythology and literature but also in modern storytelling, including politics.
The Hero’s Journey of Donald Trump
Part 1: The Hero’s Journey in Trump’s First Election
The Ordinary World: Donald Trump began his public journey as a businessman and television personality. Known for his role in “The Apprentice” and his real estate empire, he was a figure outside the traditional political sphere.
The Call to Adventure: Trump’s call to adventure came with his decision to run for the presidency in 2015. He positioned himself as a non-politician who could bring real change to Washington, D.C.
Refusal of the Call: Initially, there was skepticism and resistance, both from within the Republican Party and the general public. Many doubted his seriousness and capability as a presidential candidate.
Meeting the Mentor: In Trump’s narrative, his mentors were his business experience and the strong network of advisors he assembled, including figures like Steve Bannon and Kellyanne Conway.
Crossing the Threshold: The moment Trump announced his candidacy and began his campaign marked his crossing into the unknown. His unorthodox campaign strategies and controversial statements set him apart from traditional candidates.
Tests, Allies, and Enemies: Throughout the primary season and the general election, Trump faced numerous tests. His allies included fervent supporters and key political figures who endorsed him, while his enemies were the political establishment, the media, and his opponents like Hillary Clinton.
Approach to the Inmost Cave: Leading up to the election, Trump faced intense scrutiny and numerous challenges, including debates, scandals, and opposition campaigns.
The Ordeal: The ultimate ordeal was election night itself. Against the expectations of many pundits and polls, Trump emerged victorious, winning the electoral college and becoming the 45th President of the United States.
The Reward: His reward was the presidency, along with the validation of his unconventional approach and the loyalty of his supporters.
The Road Back: As president, Trump faced ongoing challenges, from legislative battles to investigations. His journey was far from over, marked by continuous tests of his leadership.
The Resurrection: Trump’s presidency was a period of significant transformation, both for him and the nation. His policies and leadership style brought profound changes to the political landscape.
Return with the Elixir: Trump’s return with the Elixir was his promise to “Make America Great Again,” bringing his vision of a revitalized America to his supporters.
Part 2: The Hero’s Journey in Trump’s Current Political Narrative
The Hero’s Path Today: In his current political narrative, Trump continues to position himself as a hero facing formidable trials. His legal battles, including multiple indictments and lawsuits, are portrayed as politically motivated attacks from a corrupt system.
Facing the Trials: Trump frames these legal challenges as tests of his resilience and righteousness. He presents himself as a victim of a witch hunt, unjustly targeted for standing up to the establishment.
Interpretation by Supporters: His supporters see these trials as further proof of his role as a hero fighting against entrenched corruption. The more he is attacked, the more they believe in his mission to drain the swamp.
The Assassination Attempt: The alleged assassination attempt on Trump adds to his hero narrative. He portrays himself as a leader who faces not only political opposition but also physical danger. This event is used to strengthen his image as a resilient and unyielding figure.
Media and Convention Coverage: The media coverage of these events, especially sympathetic outlets, amplifies his hero narrative. At the Republican National Convention, these themes are highlighted, presenting Trump as a figure who has been tested and proven.
The Hero’s Transformation: Trump’s journey continues as he campaigns for re-election. Each new challenge is framed as a part of his heroic path, reinforcing his image as a leader who will go to any lengths to fight for the American people.
The Hero’s Journey of J.D. Vance
J.D. Vance, nominated by Trump, has also effectively utilized the Hero’s Journey in his political narrative.
The Ordinary World: Vance began his life in a struggling, working-class family in Middletown, Ohio. His early life was marked by economic hardship and personal challenges.
The Call to Adventure: Vance’s call to adventure came through his pursuit of education and a better life. Joining the Marines and later attending Yale Law School were significant turning points.
Refusal of the Call: Vance faced moments of doubt, dealing with the cultural divide between his upbringing and his experiences at Yale.
Meeting the Mentor: Vance found mentors in his Marine superiors, Yale professors, and personal inspirations who guided him through his journey.
Crossing the Threshold: Writing his memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy,” marked Vance’s commitment to sharing his story and the lessons he learned, bridging his personal experiences with his public persona.
Tests, Allies, and Enemies: Vance faced the challenges of becoming a public figure, navigating the political landscape, and addressing criticism. He built alliances with key political figures, including Trump.
Approach to the Inmost Cave: Vance’s nomination and campaign pushed him to confront deeper societal issues and his role in addressing them.
The Ordeal: Vance’s campaign for Senate was a significant ordeal, marked by debates, public appearances, and strategic decisions.
The Reward: Winning the nomination and gaining public support marked Vance’s reward. His personal story resonated with voters, earning him recognition and support.
The Road Back: Vance’s road back involves continuing to serve and represent his constituents, applying the lessons learned from his journey.
The Resurrection: Vance’s transformation is ongoing as he integrates his personal experiences with his political responsibilities.
Return with the Elixir: Vance brings back his unique perspective to the political arena, advocating for policies that address the struggles of the working class and veterans.
Conclusion
The Hero’s Journey is a powerful tool in political campaigns, helping candidates create compelling narratives that resonate with voters. Both Donald Trump and J.D. Vance have effectively utilized this framework to shape their political images and connect with their audiences. By framing their experiences as trials of a heroic journey, they maintain a powerful and compelling political image. As their journeys continue, they will undoubtedly face new challenges that will further define their paths and influence their legacies.