Crispin: The Cross of Lead

Crispin’s story can be read as a coming-of-age tale and as a hero’s journey. As described by American writer Joseph Campbell and refined by others, the hero’s journey is a widely recognized story template that follows a protagonist who typically answers a call to adventure; receives help from a mentor; passes through various trials; confronts a powerful entity, such as a father figure; achieves an epiphany; and finds new freedom to live, among other possible tropes.

Overall, how well does Crispin: The Cross of Lead conform to the template of a hero’s journey? Does it deviate from the pattern in any notable respects? How does comparing Crispin’s journey to the typical heroic journey add to our understanding of his transformation and shed light on the novel’s themes, such as Crispin’s understanding of Will Versus Fate?

Teaching Suggestion: It may be helpful to list and briefly break down examples of the hero’s journey in popular culture. After students have identified parallels between the stages of the hero’s journey and Crispin’s journey, they may benefit from guidance in connecting the dots, considering how understanding the plot in these terms clarifies the novel’s themes.

• This handout explains the phases of the hero’s journey as modified by Christopher Vogler;