Hero Cycle Tracking Chart

By- Page Johnson and Katarina Geadelmann

The Ramayana 2nd Text: Avatar The last

Airbender

DEPARTURE
The Call to Adventure
Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:

“Send your son Rama with me, and he will “But, Aang, the world has been waiting for
help me. He can” (Narayan 8). the avatar to return and finally put an end to
this war” Aang,”How am I going to do that?”
Device identified in text: Katara,”According to legend, You need to first
master water, then earth, then fire, right?”
Dialogue (DiMartino “The Avatar Returns” 00:22:11).

Analysis of device: Device identified in text:

Character motivation
This quote shows Rama’s call to adventure.
Viswamitha is asking Rama’s father to take Analysis of device:
Rama with him on his journey. This part of the This quote shows Aang’s call to adventure by
story is the start of Rama’s adventures. The presenting him with the problem of the
author used dialogue to get this idea through. ongoing war. Katara explains the lessons Aang
Viswamitha is vocalizing his request making it must learn in order to overcome his opticals.
clear to both Rama’s father and the reader In this quote both Aang and Katara’s character
that Rama’s journey is beginning. Without the motivation is seen. Katara’s main motivation is
use of dialogue, Viswamitha’s motive and to end the war and bring peace by teaching
ideas would be unclear. This is the beginning the avatar. We also see that Aang wants to
of Rama’s hero cycle. end the war but he is not as eager or
motivated. His focus seems to be on enjoying
life and having fun. This theme is seen
throughout the story as Katara pushes Aang
into being the savior while Aang just wants to
have fun.

Refusal of the Call

Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:
“Why didn't you tell us you were the avatar?
“the king looked miserable,’Rama is still a because I never wanted to be”
child, still learning the arts and practicing the (“The Avatar Returns” 00:21:59).
use of arm’... ‘but I know Rama’ was all
Viswamithra said in reply” (8).
Device identified in text: Conflict Device identified in text:
dialogue

Analysis of device: Analysis of device:

In this quote we see Rama’s father refusing his
call to adventure on Rama’s behalf. This Aang initially refuses his call by not telling
occurs after Viswamithra requests for Rama to anyone he is the avatar. He keeps it a secret
come with him. His father tells Viswamitra because he just wants to be a normal kid
that Rama is too young and unprepared for without the responsibilities of being the
the journey. This quote uses conflict as Rama’s avatar. Aang chooses to have fun with Katara
father refuses Rama’s call for him. He doesn’t instead of training for his future duties.
believe Rama is ready to go with Viswamithra. Dialogue is an important factor because
Viswamithra does not agree and believes before this moment Aang hadn’t told anyone
Rama is ready. This creates a conflict and he was the avatar. In this scene we see him
disagreement between the two. telling Katara and explaining that he has never
wanted to be the avatar. This quote shows
Aang's reluctance at the start of his journey.

Supernatural Aid (mentors and helpers)

Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:
“Lakshmana, adept as he had proved to be, Aang says, “What if I have questions? How
had already gone ahead and created a home will I talk to you?” Roku responds, “I am a
for them with clay, thatch, leaves, and wood, part of you. When you need to talk to me
enclosed with a fence, and affording again, you will find a way. A great danger
protection from sun and rain, and privacy for awaits you at the temple. I can help you face
Rama and Sita. Again Rama was delighted with the threat” (“Winter Solstice: Part 2: Avatar
hisbrother’s engineering and architectural Roku” 00:20:19).
genius” (63).
Device identified in text:
Dialogue
Device identified in text:
Characterization
Analysis of device:
Analysis of device:
Dialogue is shown through in this quote
because Aang is speaking to his supernatural
This quote is just an example of the many
aid, Avatar Roku. Aang is vocalizing his
times Lakshmana has aided Rama throughout
concerns and Roku lets Aang know he is always
his journey. At the time Rama had just been
with him. This is important because before
banished and had nowhere to go. So,
this moment they had to communicate
Lakshmana built Rama a home using
without actually speaking through spirit
‘engineering and architectural’ knowledge
guides. Throughout the story Roku assists Aang
Rama does not possess. This excerpt also adds
and guides him through his journey. Roku uses
to the characterization of Lakshmana. He
his supernatural powers and knowledge to
remains loyal to Rama despite his banishment
help Aang. This is important to the hero cycle
and continues to assist him no matter what.
because avatar Roku helps Aang understand
his responsibilities.
 Crossing the Threshold
Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:

“While the followers slept, Rama, Sita, and Aang, Katara, and Sokka approach the large
Lakshmana rode out to a farther point on the ice gate surrounding the Northern water tribe.
river, crossed it, and went up the The water benders open it and allow them
embankment”(55). through. We see a long shot of them floating
(“The Blue Spirit” 00:3:23).
Device identified in text:
Setting Device identified in text:
Film Shots
Analysis of device:
Analysis of device:
In this excerpt Rama crosses the threshold
after being banished from the kingdom. By The director uses film shots to show Aang
crossing the river Rama is leaving the kingdom crossing the threshold. Aang and his friends
and going into the wilderness. The author uses float on appa and approach the water tribe
setting to convey this idea by creating a where Aang will finally be able to master
physical threshold. In this case it is a river water bending .The director uses the medium
representing the split between the world long shot to show Aang and his friends
Rama has always known and the unknown. By physically crossing the threshold as they enter
crossing the river Rama is exploring the through the gate to the water tribe. This step
unknown and taking the next step in his hero’s is important because it forces Aang to fully
journey. accept his role as the avatar and commit
himself to training. Aang must forget his urges
to have no responsibilities and dedicate
himself to his hero’s journey.

Belly of the Whale

Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:
“the dampness, the dimness, and the
apparent lifelessness of the rainy days. All The camera zooms into Aang’s face and upper
through the months, the rains poured, waters body as he floats in the avatar state. Suddenly
running, rushing, and stagnating in pools, and he is hit by a bolt of lightning and the entire
sometimes carrying down boulders or the frame is lit up. Aang falls to the ground dead
portion of a mountain side… Rama, isolated in (“The Gru/The Crossroads of Destiny”
this climate, became subject to long periods 00:44:15).
of melancholy. The surrounding conditions
made his inner turmoil more acute. He now Device identified in text:
felt hopelessly cut off from his wife and no Film Shots
action to seek her ever seemed possible”
(108). Analysis of device:

This quote describes Aang as he experiences

Device identified in text: the belly of the whale. While outnumbered in
Setting a battle with fire nation Aang is forced into
the avatar state. He is about to attack when
Analysis of device: Azula, the fire nation princess, shoots him
This quote describes Rama’s belly of the with lightning and kills him. The director uses
whale. Rama has found himself in a dark, a close up shot on Aang's face to convey the
isolated forest. He is isolated from everything morbid and desolate tone of this scene. This
he knows and becomes hopeless. The setting shot helps convey the tone and make the
plays a major part in Rama’s loneliness. The watcher feel like all hope is lost. This scene is
gloomy, wet atmosphere is affecting his Aangs darkest hour but, in the end he will
emotions. The lifeless setting is a reflection of come back stronger and more prepared for
the hopelessness Rama feels inside. This step the challenges ahead.
separates Rama from the outside world but
helps him leave stronger and more prepared
for the challenges ahead.

INITIATION
The Road of Trials
Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:
“He took out his bow, slung his sword into
position, girt himself for the fight, and “He’s the avatar, and if he doesn't master
emerged from his cottage with the anger of a earthbending soon, he won't be able to defeat
lion. The battle began and ended quickly. the fire lord, please teach him”
Rama’s arrows knocked down the weapons the (“The Blind Bandit” 00:12:21).
asuras bore and severed their heads” (73).
Device identified in text:
Device identified in text: Plot
imagery
Analysis of device:
Analysis of device: Aang now needs an earthbending teacher in
order to complete his training and defeat the
This quotation is an example of Rama’s road fire nation. He has visions of a young, blind
of trials. An upset Soorpanaka decides to get girl teaching him. Once Aang eventually finds
revenge on Rama and Sita. She attacks Rama’s her, she refuses to teach him. In order for the
cottage with her brother, Kara, and his allies. plot to move along Aang must learn
During their fight Kara and his army were earthbending to master all four elements.
easily defeated by Rama. The author uses After a challenging battle he convinces her.
imagery to describe Rama’s anger and actions Finally, Aang has an earthbending teacher and
during the fight. By using terms like ‘anger of can continue his training. This step is
a lion’, ‘served their heads’, ‘slung his sword’, detrimental in his journey ahead.
or ‘girt himself’ the reader can paint a picture
of Rama’s actions in their head. This helps
provide a better understanding of the scene
and its importance to the plot. Rama begins to
prove himself as a powerful warrior and makes
enemies he will face later in his journey.

The Meeting With the Goddess

Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:
As Aang stands looking over the balcony,
“Rama observed on a balcony princess Sita Katara joins him as they stand there in silence
playing with companions. He stood arrested by overlooking the mountains and city they just
her beauty, and she noticed him at the same saved, they hug and look at each other with
moment. Their eyes met. They had been eyes filled with sparkles. Katara’s cheeks
together not so long ago in Vaikunta, their
original home in heaven, as Vishnu and his blush up as they share an intimate kiss.
spouse Lakshmi, but in their present (“Sozin’s Comet” 01:31.14).
incarnation, suffering all the limitations of
morals, they looked at each other as Device identified in text:
strangers” (23). Framing

Device identified in text: Analysis of device:

Diction Aang and Katara have always been close
friends. Aang has always had feelings for
Analysis of device: Katara, but it wasn't until the last episode
In this excerpt Rama meets his goddess, Sita. where Katara finally acknowledges her love
She is the reincarnated Lakshmi and later for Aang. Aang has looked at Katara as his
becomes his wife. Throughout Rama’s journey Goddess throughout this story especially when
Sita stays loyal to him. In this quote the she saves him in the second season. He has
author uses diction like “beauty” and always seen her as the epitome of beauty.
“heaven” to show how enamored Rama is with Framing is shown in this episode when there is
Sita. Additionally, the use of words like a wide framing shot as Katara joins Aang out
“arrested”, “suffering” and “limitations” show on the balcony. We can see the sunset
Rama’s longing to be with Sita. overlooking the mountains, this sets up the
story for the next upcoming scene.

The Temptress
Quotation from the text:
“In the course of her wanderings, she saw
Rama and fell in love and decided to seduce
him by every art in her power” (67).

Device identified in text:

motivation

Analysis of device:
This quote introduces us to the temptress,
Soorpanaka. She is described as ‘a demon’ and
is only in the story to tempt Rama. This
excerpt demonstrates Soorpanaka’s
motivation. She fell in love with Rama which
motivated her to ‘seduce’ him. However,
Rama sees through her temptation and stays
loyal to Sita. Soorpanaka helped Rama show
his loyalty and ability to not be deceived.
Atonement with the Father
Quotation from the text:
“He said, ‘Rama needs your benediction after
having carried out your commands, and having
gone through so much privation for fourteen
years in order to safeguard the integrity of
your promises.’ Dasaratha descended in his
true form into the midst of his family. Rama
was overjoyed to see him again and prostrated
himself at his feet”(151).
Device identified in text:
tone

Analysis of device:
This quotation is a great example of the
atonement with the father. After years of
following Dasaratha’s will in order to honor his
fathers memory Rama is finally reunited with
his father. Dasaratha is allowed to return back
to Earth and reconcile with Rama. The author
sets up a contented and fulfilled tone to
convey just how important this moment is to
Rama. By using words like ‘integrity’,
‘promises’, and ‘overjoyed’ the author sets up
a positive tone. This atonement brings Rama
closure as his journey comes to an end.

Apotheosis
Quotation from the text:

“I learned there was another way to defeat

him and restore balance. I took his bending
away”(“Sozin’s Comet” 1:24:18).

Device identified in text:

Theme

Analysis of device:

The lion-turtle that Aang meets with, passes a

greater understanding to Aang. He makes
Aang realize that killing the fire lord is no the
only option. Aang's persona revolves around
peace and it would not be right for him to
take a life. This goes into the theme that
kindness and mercy may be the right answer
over violence and fighting. Aang ultimately
defeats him with the knowledge of the
lion-turtle still in the back of his mind. Instead
of killing him Aang takes his bending powers
away. This step helps Aang relinquish the
conflict while staying true to himself.

The Ultimate Boon

Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:
“Rama said, ‘Your arrival here is the greatest “Today, the war is finally over… the world is so
boon for me, and I have nothing more to seek. different now and now we are friends”
(“Sozin's Comet” 1:27:06).
All along, my only desire has been to see you
again, and that is fulfilled”(151).
Device identified in text:
Device identified in text: Motif
Diction
Analysis of device:
Analysis of device: This quote shows the theme demonstrated
time and time again throughout the series.
In this quote Rama receives his ultimate boon. That while the team's goal is to stop the war
After trying to live up to his father’s memory they are also enriching themselves with life
for fourteen years Rama finally gets reunited long friendships. Throughout this story we
with his father. This shows that Rama’s hero’s have seen ups and downs of friendships and
journey is coming to an end and his internal betrayals, but in the end Aang and his friends
conflicts are relinquishing. The author uses will always stand by eachother and protect
diction like ‘fulfilled’ and ‘boon’ to show one another. The ultimate boon in this story is
Rama’s overjoyed, content feelings. The both finding peace by ending the war and
author also uses diction such as ‘desire’ and creating strong bonds of friendship. Aang had
‘seek’ to demonstrate how long Rama has to embark on the hero cycle to bring
anticipated this moment. prosperity and gain friendships.

RETURN

The Magic Flight

Quotation from the text:
“They requested Indra to send down his
special chariot for Rama’s use. When the
chariot appeared at this camp, Rama was
deeply impressed with the magnitude and
brilliance of the vehicle”(140).

Device identified in text:

Plot

Analysis of device:
In this step Rama urgently needs to return to
the start of his journey. The magic flight
allows Rama to return without taking as long
as it did the first time around. In this story the
magic flight is given to Rama by the gods in
the form of a chariot. This chariot enables the
plot to continue without a lengthy return
home. Without the magic flight Rama would
not have returned home in time for the final
conflict and the plot of the story would be
over.

Rescue From Without

Quotation from the text:
 “I didn't just get hurt, did I? it was worse than
that I was gone, but you brought me
back”(“The Awakening” 00:5:10).
Aang realizes that he died but Katara uses her
supernatural powers to bring him back.

Device identified in text:

facial expressions

Analysis of device:

This quote shows Aang waking up and realizing

that he had died. Rescue from without is
shown after the battle when Katara uses her
supernatural abilities to bring Aang back to
life. After coming back to life Aang has mixed
emotions of disappointment due to his lost
battle and fear for his life. These feelings are
clearly reflected on his face. By using facial
expressions we see just how shaken up Aang is
after his death. This is important for the
watcher to understand because that fear
affects Aang for the rest of his hero journey.

Master of Two Worlds

Quotation from the text:

“Now our world will be even more different,

we will rebuild together” Aang and Zuko
proceed to hug (“Sozin’s Comet” 1:27:15).

Device identified in text:

Use of color

Analysis of device:

Zuko’s side of the screen appears to be darker

with more red tones. His clothing is all red
with fire nation symbols. On the other hand
Aang’s side of the screen seems to be brighter
and he is wearing yellow clothing. This use of
color shows Zuko representing the fire nation
and physical world while Aang represents the
spirit world. When the two hug it represents
Aang finally mastering both worlds and
 bringing peace to the realm. He has finally
brought balance and prosperity.

Freedom to Live
Quotation from the text: Quotation from the text:
“All Rama’s friends and supporters were “I’m trying to capture the moment. I wanted
around him… At an auspicious hour of a chosen to do a painting, so we’d always remember
day Rama was crowned the emperor. He sat on the good times together” (“Sozin’s Comet”
the thorne with Sita beside him under the 1:30:11).
‘white umbrella of the state’”(155).
Device identified in text:
Theme
Device identified in text: details
Analysis of device:
Analysis of device: This shows the theme of friendship.
In this part of the story Rama is experiencing Throughout this story there has been a theme
freedom to live. He is emperor and all his of peace and war, but also one of the most
conflicts are finally over. The author uses important ones, friendship. We see Aang and
details to show this. He describes Rama and his friends battle enemies and struggle
Sita being surrounded by all their friends. together, but they are always there for one
They are sitting on a throne under the white another. Aang keeps old friends and makes
umbrella of the state. These details help show new ones on his journey to restore the peace
the power and peace Rama is finally back to the four kingdoms. This shows
experiencing. His hero’s cycle is over and freedom to live because Aang has finally found
Rama can finally live in peace. balance between his two worlds, spiritual and
physical. This scene shows a tender moment
between friends who have finally found
peace.

Works Cited-

DiMartino, Michael Dante. Avatar the Last Airbender. Nickelodeon, February 21, 2005.

Narayan, R. The Ramayana by R. K. Narayan. Penguin Classics, 2022.