The Lion King is a true hero's journey that takes place in the savannas of Africa. The title "the Lion King" emphasizes that a lion is king, most likely referring to the main character, Simba. Simba is the main hero in the story because he regains his kingdom and defeats evil. The main character's archetype is "king"; he takes responsibility for his actions and his kingdom, he regains order and control. Simba takes part in a hero's journey by being a part of the departure, initiation, and the return.

Simba was banished from his homeland by his evil uncle Scar's hyenas (who acted as his personal army and assistants), who were really supposed to kill him. He is found by Timon and Pumba, a meerkat and warthog, and he grows up in a
Simba wins the battle by throwing him off a cliff, and the hyenas kill him for his betrayal. After defeating Scar, Simba returns and reunites with his family and takes his throne. A heavy rain puts out the fire, and the darkness washes away.

In conclusion, there are many references and patterns similar to Campbell's hero's journey. Not only have I found the three main parts of this story's own hero's journey, I have also analyzed and found different symbolisms that represent important events in the story. A few examples are how the wind changing represents how Simba changed, and how the water from the rain washes away the darkness. When Simba departs on his adventure, he meets his supernatural aid, Rafiki, who helps him change his heart and to go back to his rightful place. He experiences his initiation when he changes his heart after he meets with his father. Simba goes on his return by gaining helpers and making an entrance to the pride lands. He experiences a belly of the whale when Scar almost kills him. He survives and engages in the final battle which he wins. He then returns home, and all the darkness washes away. "The lioness rejoices her cub, and all is well in the