One common element is a connection to nature. For example, many goddesses are associated with the moon like Artemis in Greek mythology. Another is their role in creation. In some origin stories, goddesses are the ones who give birth to the world or elements within it. Also, a lot of goddess origin stories involve a special power or gift that the goddess possesses, which often defines her role in the mythological world.
Well, often there's a supernatural or divine birth in goddess origin stories. Take Athena in Greek mythology. She sprang fully formed from Zeus' head. And then there's the aspect of their domain. Goddesses usually have a particular area they preside over, like Aphrodite and love. Their origin stories are sometimes intertwined with the origin of that domain. They might be created to fulfill a specific need in the cosmos, such as bringing order or beauty.
In goddess origin stories, there can be elements of transformation. For instance, some goddesses start as ordinary beings and are transformed into deities through a series of events. Their origin stories also frequently involve relationships with other gods or mortals. These relationships can shape their identity and their story. For example, Demeter's relationship with her daughter Persephone is central to her origin story and her role as a goddess of the harvest.
Dark and gloomy settings are very common. Whether it's a mist - covered cemetery or a dilapidated old mansion, these places set the mood for horror. Supernatural elements are also prevalent. Be it demons, vampires, or witches, they bring an element of otherworldliness. Moreover, there is usually a protagonist who is either drawn into the horror against their will or is trying to fight against it. In many horror origin stories, this protagonist is an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary and terrifying situations.
One common element is the connection to the land. Tribal origin stories often explain how their people came to be in a particular place and have a special relationship with that land. For example, a story might say that the tribe was created by the spirits of the mountains and valleys in that area.
Well, many aboriginal origin stories have elements of spiritual guidance. The stories are not just about how things came to be but also about how people should live. For instance, they might tell of a great ancestor who taught important values like respect for elders and sharing. Also, the element of transformation is common. Beings could transform from one form to another, which often has significance in terms of the cycle of life and nature.
Another common element is the use of symbols. These symbols can be animals, plants or natural phenomena. They are used to convey important messages about the origin of the people. For example, a particular animal might represent a clan within the Aboriginal community and be part of the story of how that clan came to be.
Common elements often include a moral or ethical lesson. Take the Hindu origin stories, they teach about dharma, the right way of living. Miracles are also quite common. In the Buddhist origin story, Gautama Buddha's enlightenment under the Bodhi tree can be seen as a kind of miracle. And then there is the idea of a chosen people or a special prophet. In Judaism, the Israelites are considered God's chosen people, and Moses is an important prophet.
One common element is a troubled childhood. Many serial killers had experiences like abuse, either physical or mental, at a young age. For example, Jeffrey Dahmer had a very dysfunctional family environment which might have contributed to his later actions. Another element can be social isolation. They often find it hard to form normal relationships with others, so they retreat into their own dark worlds.
Well, in many magical girl origin stories, there's usually a mentor figure. This could be an animal, like in the case of Cardcaptor Sakura where Keroberos helps Sakura understand her powers. Family can also play a role. Sometimes, a magical girl might inherit her powers from a family member. And then there's the encounter with the source of evil. This is what makes the magical girl realize she has to use her powers to fight, like Madoka in 'Puella Magi Madoka Magica' when she learns about the witches.
Well, in many magical girl origin stories, there's the idea of a calling. The girl feels drawn to something extraordinary. In some cases, it could be a family heirloom or a place that has a special connection to magic. For instance, in Cardcaptor Sakura, Sakura finds the Clow Cards and is then thrust into the role of a Cardcaptor. And then there's the aspect of friendship. Magical girls often form strong bonds with other girls who might also be magical girls or just normal friends that support them through their magical adventures.
One common element is the presence of a heroic figure. For example, in the founding myth of Rome, Romulus is seen as a heroic founder. Another element can be a divine intervention. Many origin stories involve gods or supernatural beings guiding the creation of a nation or community. Also, a significant event like a great battle or a natural disaster often plays a role in shaping the founding myth origin story.
One common element is often the harshness of the North. Many origin stories depict the North as a place of extreme cold and difficult living conditions. This harshness is used to explain how the people who originated from or lived in the North developed their unique survival skills.