A common theme is self - sacrifice. Characters with hero syndrome often put themselves in danger to save others. For example, in many such novels, the protagonist will jump into a fight against powerful enemies to protect the weak.
Power and responsibility is also a major theme. The characters with hero syndrome usually gain some sort of power, be it physical strength, magical abilities or strategic knowledge. And with that power comes the responsibility to use it for the greater good. They can't just sit back and watch chaos unfold. They feel compelled to act, like in a light novel where a character discovers he has the power to heal others in a post - apocalyptic world. He has to decide how to use this power, whether to hide it or use it to save as many people as possible, which is a classic hero syndrome - related theme.
Another theme is the search for identity. These heroes usually start as ordinary people but through their heroic deeds, they discover who they really are. They might question their own motives and abilities at first, but as they face challenges, they grow into their heroic roles. For instance, a character might start as a shy gamer in a virtual world - based light novel but gradually becomes a leader and a hero as the story progresses. It's all about how they evolve and find their place in the world, whether it's a real or virtual one.
One common theme is redemption. The hero often not only seeks revenge but also to redeem themselves in some way, like proving their worth after being wronged. For example, in 'The Rising of the Shield Hero', the hero has to redeem his name in addition to getting revenge.
One of the main themes is adaptation. The heroes are summoned from their normal lives to a completely different world, so they have to adapt to new cultures, magic systems, and social structures. Also, friendship and camaraderie are important themes. They often form teams or groups with other characters and rely on each other to overcome difficulties. In addition, the theme of power and its abuse or proper use is often explored as the heroes gain more and more power in the new world.
The theme of sacrifice is also quite common. The hero may have to sacrifice something, like a relationship or a part of their power, to defeat the archenemy. In addition, the exploration of different worlds or settings is a theme. Many 'archenemy and hero light novels' are set in fantasy worlds, and the hero and archenemy's interactions are influenced by the unique rules and cultures of those worlds. This can range from a medieval - like fantasy world to a post - apocalyptic world.
One common theme is the idea of the underdog. Orc heroes are often underestimated in their worlds, but they rise above it. For example, in many novels, orc heroes face discrimination from other races but prove their worth through heroic deeds.
Betrayal is a common theme. The hero is often betrayed by those they trust, like friends or allies, which leads to their abandonment. Another theme is redemption. The hero tries to redeem themselves or prove their worth after being abandoned.
One common theme is the struggle to adapt to normal life. After being a hero with a lot of action and excitement, the retired hero often finds it hard to fit into a normal, quiet life.
One common theme is redemption. The fallen hero often has to find a way to make up for their past mistakes or misdeeds. Another theme is the loss of innocence. They have typically gone through some kind of trauma or made a bad choice that led them to fall from grace. Moral ambiguity is also a big one, as they may not be completely good or bad anymore.
Love and self - discovery are common themes. The characters often find themselves while falling in love with another man.
Self - discovery is also a key theme. The anti - heroes usually start with a certain view of themselves and the world, but as the story progresses, they change. In 'Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash', the characters learn more about their own capabilities and limitations as they face different challenges, which is part of their self - discovery journey in this new world.
A prevalent theme is redemption. Sometimes, the demon king may not be entirely evil, and there could be a chance for him to be redeemed, or the hero may have to struggle with his own dark side. Also, friendship and loyalty play a part. The hero often has comrades who support him, and the demon king may have his own followers. Their relationships within their respective groups are important aspects. In addition, the theme of sacrifice is often seen. The hero may have to sacrifice something precious to defeat the demon king or vice versa.