Female victims sometimes play a role in character development. For other characters in the story, their reaction to the female victim's situation can reveal a lot about their own personalities. For instance, a police officer might be more determined to solve the case if the female victim reminds him of his sister or mother. Or a journalist might be more or less interested in covering the story depending on her own views on women, which are then explored through her interaction with the case of the female victim.
Women can play the role of the accomplice. In some crime stories, a woman might be involved with a male criminal, either out of love or coercion. They also play the role of the victim's family member. This role often drives the plot as they seek justice for their loved ones. For example, a mother who is determined to find out who killed her daughter. Additionally, in some crime fictions, women are the informants, using their access to certain information to help the investigation.
They can play the role of companions. For instance, in some novels, a female robot might be a sole companion to a lonely human, providing emotional support.
They can play the role of a helper. For instance, in a fantasy story, a female toad might help the hero find a hidden treasure by leading them through a dangerous swamp using her knowledge of the area.
In some fictional adventure tales, female boars can be the quest - givers or the ones with important knowledge. Maybe a group of adventurers stumbles upon a female boar in an ancient forest. She could be an ancient and wise being who gives them a task or a clue that will help them on their journey. This gives the female boar a more mystical and important role in the overall plot of the story.
They often play the role of assistants. Just like in some stories, female robots are there to help the male protagonists with various tasks, such as in 'Star Trek' where there are female - looking android assistants.
Another role is as an antagonist. In horror or thriller fictions set underwater, octopuses can be the source of fear. Their alien - like appearance and the fact that they live in the often - feared deep sea can make them perfect for creating a sense of dread. They can use their tentacles to attack and their ability to hide in small spaces can add to the suspense.
Typically, they play the role of nurses. They are in the thick of things, dealing with the wounded and the dying. It's a role that shows their compassion and ability to handle the chaos of war.
In crime fiction, female victims are often portrayed as vulnerable. They are frequently depicted as being in the wrong place at the wrong time. For example, in many classic detective stories, a female victim might be found alone in a dark alley or an isolated place, which makes her an easy target for the criminal. This portrayal sometimes reinforces gender stereotypes of women as being less able to defend themselves.
Gods in fantasy fiction also act as sources of conflict. Their rivalries and power struggles can spill over into the mortal realm, causing wars and chaos among humans, elves, dwarves, etc. For example, if two gods are fighting for control over a particular region, their followers will also be at odds.
They can be protectors. For instance, a dragon might guard a magical or important place in a science - fiction world.