“For those who have not refused the call, the first encounter of the hero journey is with a protective figure who provides the adventurer with amulets against the dragon forces he or she is about to pass…”

A. Shapes of the Role

1. The helpful old crone

2. The fairy godmother

3. The virgin

4. The hermit

5. The old man

6. The wizard

ALL sent to protect and guide.

B. Talismans

The exterior, physical manifestation of the hero’s power given to the hero by his/her supernatural aid.

1. Sometimes seemingly inconsequential,

2. Each supernatural aid may provide his/her own.

3. Each talisman is universal but unique.

All will appear as the hero needs them.

C. Symbolizes

1. The benign, protecting power of destiny.

2. The reassurance that the peace of Paradise exists in the future as in the past.

3. The reassurance that protective power is always and ever present in the sanctuary of the hero’s own heart.

D. Support of the Unconscious

1. Having responded to the call, the hero finds all the forces of the unconscious on his side…

2. If his task coincides with what society is ready for, it is as if “not all the forces of mankind can do anything against” him…

3. Even Mother Nature herself supports his/her task.

E. Unexpected Assistance

1. Supernatural aid can also come from unexpected places…