Popular Genre: The Chosen One
Ever felt like you're destined for something greater, like maybe you're the key to saving the world? If so, you’re not alone! That’s the irresistible charm of the "Chosen One" trope—a staple in the romantasy genre that keeps us glued to the pages. Let’s dive into why this trope captivates us and look at some standout examples from literature, Disney, and romantasy.
The "Chosen One" trope features a protagonist who is destined for greatness. They often start as an ordinary individual but discover they have a special destiny, power, or role that makes them crucial to overcoming a major conflict. Their journey is filled with challenges, growth, and often, a dash of romance.
Key Ingredients:
Ordinary Beginnings: The protagonist starts off as an everyday person.
Revelation: They learn about their unique destiny or powers.
Mentorship: Often guided by a mentor who helps them understand their role.
Epic Quest: Their journey involves a significant quest or mission.
Romantic Subplot: Romance often plays a key role in their development and success.
Psychological Appeal:
Wish Fulfillment: It taps into our desire to be special and important.
Relatability: We all start somewhere, and watching an ordinary person become extraordinary is inspiring.
Empowerment: It’s empowering to see characters discover their strengths and rise to challenges.
Hope and Optimism: It offers hope that we can overcome obstacles and fulfill our potential.
Narrative Drive:
High Stakes: The fate of the world or a community often rests on the protagonist’s shoulders.
Character Growth: The journey is ripe with opportunities for significant character development.
Action and Adventure: The epic quests and battles keep the story thrilling.
Emotional Depth: The romantic subplot adds emotional richness and personal stakes.
Classic Literature: Destined for Greatness
1. "Harry Potter" by J.K. Rowling Harry starts as an ordinary boy living in a cupboard under the stairs but discovers he’s a wizard destined to defeat the dark lord Voldemort.
2. "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien Frodo Baggins is an unassuming hobbit who becomes the bearer of the One Ring, destined to destroy it and save Middle-earth.
3. "The Chronicles of Narnia" by C.S. Lewis In "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," the Pevensie siblings are ordinary children who become the chosen ones to save Narnia from the White Witch.
Disney Magic: Heroes with a Destiny
1. "The Lion King" Simba is destined to become king of the Pride Lands, overcoming personal guilt and external threats to fulfill his role.
2. "Moana" Moana is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti, embracing her role and her connection to her people and heritage.
3. "Hercules" Hercules must prove himself a true hero to reclaim his place on Mount Olympus, discovering his strength and love along the way.
Romantasy: Modern Takes on the Chosen One
1. "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas Celaena Sardothien is an assassin who discovers she has a much greater destiny tied to the fate of her world, filled with magic, battles, and romance.
2. "The Mortal Instruments" by Cassandra Clare Clary Fray learns she is a Shadowhunter, destined to fight demons and uncover secrets about her past and her world.
3. "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins Katniss Everdeen becomes the symbol of rebellion and hope, navigating love and war as she fights against oppression.
The "Chosen One" trope is a powerful narrative that speaks to our deepest desires for significance and heroism. It’s a journey of transformation, high stakes, and emotional depth that keeps us hooked from start to finish. Whether in classic literature, Disney movies, or modern romantasy, these stories remind us that even the most ordinary among us can achieve extraordinary things.
Happy reading, and may you always find the hero within yourself!
