A major theme is the struggle between the self and the new form. Take 'The Little Mermaid' for instance. When she gets legs, she has to deal with the pain and the new way of moving. It's about her internal self adjusting to this new external body. Another common theme is the reaction of others. In many body transformation stories, the people around the transformed character either fear or are intrigued by the change. And then there's the theme of sacrifice. In some cases, like in 'The Little Mermaid', the transformation comes with a price, a sacrifice of something precious.
One common theme is self - discovery. Characters often find out new things about themselves during their transformation. For instance, in stories like 'Beauty and the Beast', Belle discovers her inner strength and kindness while also seeing the Beast transform. Another theme is the struggle against odds. Characters usually have to overcome difficulties while changing. In 'Cinderella', she has to endure the mistreatment of her stepmother and sisters before her transformation. And finally, growth is a key theme. Characters grow in various aspects such as maturity, strength, and intelligence during their body transformation.
The theme of acceptance is also prevalent. In many transformation stories, the characters around the transformed one need to accept the change. In 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', the other characters have to accept Bottom's strange new appearance. And finally, the theme of the unknown. Transformation often brings the unknown into the story, as the characters don't know what will happen next or how long the transformation will last.
Self - discovery is a common theme. Characters often start off feeling out of place with their assigned gender and through their transformation journey, they learn more about their true selves. For example, in many stories, the protagonist might have always felt more comfortable in the clothing or activities associated with the opposite gender.
One common theme is the struggle between human and animal nature. When a character transforms into a wolf, they often have to deal with their new instincts while still holding on to their human self.
One common theme is confinement. The character in a body cast is physically restricted, which can lead to feelings of isolation and a struggle for freedom.
The exploration of society's reaction is also prevalent. In many body modification fiction stories, society may either ostracize or idolize those with modifications. This can show how society views differences and the power dynamics involved.
Recovery is a common theme. When a character is in a body cast, there's often a journey of physical and sometimes mental recovery. It shows their struggle to get back to normal.
One common theme is identity exploration. When a boy is transformed into a girl, he has to figure out who he is in this new form. Another theme is dealing with different social expectations. Girls and boys are often treated differently in society, so the transformed character has to navigate this new set of rules. Also, relationships are a big theme. How does the transformed boy interact with friends, family, and potential romantic interests as a girl?
Love and relationships also play a role. For example, a character who was in a relationship before the transformation may have to reevaluate their feelings and the nature of their relationship. Sometimes, new relationships form in unexpected ways because of the change in gender. It's also about breaking gender norms. These stories often challenge the traditional ideas of what it means to be male or female.
A frequent theme is the exploration of gender roles. As the male - to - female transformation occurs, the character may experience how society views and treats women differently. Also, the theme of love and relationships often changes. In many such stories, the character's relationships, be it romantic or platonic, are altered as they transform. For instance, in some stories, a male - turned - female character may find new forms of love and friendship that were not available to them before.