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Course Description

Welcome to the captivating journey through the realm of heroes and legends in our 9th grade English Literature course. Throughout this immersive exploration, we will delve deep into the timeless archetype of “The Hero’s Journey,” a narrative framework that transcends cultures and epochs, resonating across literature, film, and our collective imagination. As we traverse the stages of the journey, from the call to adventure to the triumphant return, we will unravel the threads that bind together myths, epics, and modern tales, illuminating the universal truths and patterns that define the hero’s quest. 

This course is more than an academic expedition; it’s an invitation to unravel the essence of heroism, resilience, and transformation. Through an engaging tapestry of texts ranging from ancient myths to contemporary novels, we will analyze, discuss, and interpret the hero’s journey, fostering critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the human experience. By examining the hero’s trials, mentors, allies, and adversaries, we aim not only to decipher the hero’s path but also to contemplate its relevance to our own lives, fostering a profound appreciation for storytelling and its profound impact on culture and society. Get ready to embark on an odyssey of discovery, where each step brings us closer to understanding what it means to be a hero.

Course Details

Literature: The Hero's Journey

Ninth Grade

Skills Description

Throughout this course, 9th-grade students will hone essential skills that extend beyond literary analysis, empowering them with tools applicable across disciplines and life pursuits. By engaging with “The Hero’s Journey,” students will:

• Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing and interpreting various texts and narratives.
• Cultivate empathy and understanding through exploring diverse characters and their journeys.
• Enhance writing proficiency through creative assignments and structured analyses.
• Refine communication skills via class discussions, presentations, and  collaborative projects.
• Foster an appreciation for storytelling, recognizing its cultural and societal impacts.
• Strengthen research abilities while examining the historical and cultural contexts of heroic tales.
• Cultivate resilience by understanding the challenges and transformations within the hero’s quest.
• Foster a deeper understanding of universal themes and human experiences present in literature.
• Encourage independent thinking and the ability to make connections between texts and personal experiences.
• Develop the capacity for reflection and self-exploration by considering the relevance of the hero’s journey in their own lives.

View syllabus

  • Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare
  • The Odyssey by Homer
  • Beowulf by Unknown
  • Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
  • The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
    • The Fellowship of the Rings
    • The Two Towers
    • The Return of the King

Mr. Logan Wells

Logan Wells is a professor specializing in U.S. history and Latter Day Saint history & doctrine, currently serving as an adjunct professor of religion at BYU and Salt Lake Community College. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Brigham Young University. He then pursued a Master of Arts in History from Arizona State University, further deepening his understanding of historical analysis and research methodologies.

Mr. Wells is currently in the final stages of completing his Doctor of Philosophy in History at Claremont Graduate University.