- Fear and the unknown
- Chaos and disorder
- Evil or destructive forces
- The protagonist's inner struggles or flaws
- Society's fears and anxieties
- Obstacles or challenges that the hero must overcome
- Temptations or distractions that can lead the hero astray
- The natural world or forces of nature that humans don't fully understand
Heroes in traditional epics usually represent the following:
- Courage and strength
- Honor and virtue
- Wisdom and intelligence
- Compassion and generosity
- Loyalty and faithfulness
- Leadership and authority
- Hope and resilience
- The human spirit's ability to overcome adversity
- The triumph of good over evil