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Abstract

This study examines the representation of heroism in Titanic (1997) by applying Christopher Vogler's Hero's Journey framework from a formalist perspective. The analysis focuses on the film's narrative structure and explores how heroism is constructed through character functions rather than through conventional heroic outcomes. Particular attention is given to Jack Dawson, who is interpreted as a sacrificial hero whose journey is fulfilled symbolically rather than through physical survival. Using qualitative film analysis, this study examines key scenes, dialogues, and narrative events to identify the stages of the Hero's Journey embodied by Jack Dawson. The findings reveal that, although Jack does not survive, he fulfills a significant heroic function through self-sacrifice, moral transformation, and the transmission of values such as freedom, courage, and independence. These values are subsequently carried forward by Rose DeWitt Bukater, who completes the narrative by fulfilling the Return with the Elixir stage. The study concludes that Titanic (1997) portrays heroism not merely as an individual's achievement but as a relational and symbolic process embedded within the film's narrative structure. This study contributes to the understanding of cinematic heroism by demonstrating how heroic meaning may be transferred across characters while preserving the integrity of the Hero's Journey framework.

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