The 'quest myth' was seen by Joseph Campbell as common to folk stories and literature the world over.  After a series of initiations, trials and tests, the victorious hero emerges into manhood. It has become known as the 'monomyth' and has three stages: Separation, Initiation and Return.  

 
Separation

             The Call to Adventure
             Refusal of the Call
             Supernatural Aid
             The Crossing of the First Threshold
             The Belly of the Whale. 

Initiation

            The Road of Trials
            The Meeting with the Goddess
            Woman as Temptress
            Atonement with the Father
            Apotheosis (elevation to divine status)
            The Ultimate Boon.

Return

            Refusal of the Return
            The Magic Flight
            Rescue from Without
            The Crossing of the Return Threshold
            Master of the Two Worlds
            Freedom to Live