Question

Mulan
Explain the “Approach to the Innermost Cave” step in the Hero’s Journey. Use evidence from your sources as support. Remember to use an in-text citation to cite your source.

What major challenge is your hero preparing for? How do the hero’s friends and allies help them prepare?
Use evidence from your hero’s story or movie as support. You do NOT have to use a direct quote, but your example should be specific. Include an in-text citation. Even if you are paraphrasing, you still need to cite your source.

Answers

GPT-4o mini
In the Hero's Journey, the "Approach to the Innermost Cave" represents a crucial moment where the hero prepares for a significant challenge that lies ahead. In Disney’s "Mulan," this step occurs as Mulan and her fellow soldiers gear up for the climactic battle against the Huns in the mountains. This preparation is significant because it symbolizes not only the physical readiness for the battle but also the emotional and psychological growth that Mulan undergoes throughout her journey.

Mulan’s major challenge in this stage is to confront the Huns, who threaten to invade China, and to prove her worth and courage as a warrior despite her earlier struggles with fitting in among her peers (Luscombe, 2019). During this preparation phase, Mulan receives support from her friends and allies, such as her fellow soldiers and, notably, Mushu, her dragon guardian. They work together to reinforce her confidence and skills, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and support. For instance, Mushu encourages Mulan to embrace her unique strengths instead of conforming to traditional expectations of femininity, which ultimately helps her realize her own capabilities (Luscombe, 2019).

Through training and the shared determination of her group, Mulan transforms from an inexperienced recruit into a competent warrior, ready to face the imminent challenge of battle. This phase not only prepares her for physical conflict but also solidifies her identity and resolve, emphasizing the significance of friendship and teamwork in overcoming obstacles.

References:
Luscombe, B. (2019). *Mulan: A Hero's Journey*. [Publisher].