Revenge is another major theme. The characters who have been betrayed often seek to get back at those who wronged them. In 'The Count of Monte Cristo', Edmond Dantes spends years planning his revenge against those who unjustly sent him to prison. And the idea of love is also there. It can be the initial cause of the betrayal and also be affected by the revenge. In many such novels, love is twisted and distorted by the events of betrayal and revenge.
Another theme is the loss of trust. Once love has been betrayed, it becomes very difficult for the characters to trust again, not only in their romantic relationships but also in other aspects of their lives. For example, in many such novels, the betrayed character may become cynical about love in general. They might question the very existence of true love. This is often explored in great detail through the character's internal monologues and their interactions with other characters.
One common theme is the conflict between passion and duty. In many 'love and betrayal novel', characters are torn between their intense love for someone new and their existing duties, like in a marriage or family obligation. For example, in 'Anna Karenina', Anna's love for Vronsky clashes with her role as a wife and mother.
Transformation is a key theme. The character's heart changes from being filled with hatred and a desire for revenge to being full of love. This transformation is usually gradual and is influenced by various events and interactions. In 'Wuthering Heights', Heathcliff's transformation is complex. His love for Catherine is always there but his vengeful actions overshadow it until the end when his true feelings are more exposed. Also, power dynamics play a role. Often, the revenge is related to a power struggle, and love can shift these power dynamics in unexpected ways.
Betrayal is a common theme. Usually, one of the lovers betrays the other in some way, which then leads to the desire for revenge. For example, in many novels, it could be cheating or lying about something important.
Another theme is broken trust. When one person betrays another in love, it shatters the trust that has been built. It can be as simple as sharing a secret with someone else that was meant to be between the couple.
Another theme could be the consequences of betrayal in the context of love. For example, when a character betrays their partner's trust, it often leads to heartbreak, anger, and a breakdown of the relationship. This can be explored in depth in the novel, showing how the characters deal with the aftermath.
Forgiveness is a common theme. After betrayal, the characters have to decide whether to forgive or not. Another theme is redemption. The person who betrayed often tries to redeem themselves in the eyes of their loved one. And self - discovery is also present. The characters may learn more about themselves through the process of dealing with the betrayal.
One common theme is trust. Usually, the story starts with characters having some level of trust in each other, and then that trust is broken, which sets off the chain of events. For example, in many light novels, a friend might betray the protagonist over a rare item or a secret power.
Another theme is forgiveness. Sometimes, the characters have to decide whether to forgive the person who betrayed them. This can be a long and difficult process. In some novels, forgiveness is seen as a way to move forward and heal, while in others, it's not possible. In 'Wuthering Heights', Heathcliff's actions are a form of betrayal, and Catherine's struggle with her feelings towards him touches on themes of forgiveness and the inability to forgive.
A common theme is revenge. After being betrayed, characters often seek revenge. In 'Divergent', Tris has to deal with those who have betrayed her and she may consider revenge at times. Another theme is the exploration of human nature. Betrayal web novels often show how humans can be self - serving and turn on others. In 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians', some demigods' actions of betrayal highlight the less noble aspects of human nature. And secrecy is also a theme, as many betrayals are often the result of hidden motives and secrets.