In many of these fanfictions, the theme of inheritance is prominent. Merlin may inherit not just a title but also Uther's legacy, which includes both the good and the bad. There's also the theme of acceptance, as Merlin has to be accepted by the court and the people of Camelot as Uther's son, and Uther has to accept Merlin as his own, which can be a complex and drawn - out process.
Power dynamics is a major theme. As Merlin is Uther's son, it affects his standing in Camelot, both in terms of political power and magical power. Also, redemption is a theme sometimes. Uther was not always kind to magic - users, and this relationship can lead to a path of redemption for him in some fanfictions.
One common theme is power dynamics. Given Uther's position as king and Merlin's as his servant, there's often exploration of how power affects their relationship. Another theme is secrecy, as Merlin has to hide his magic from Uther.
One popular 'Uther Merlin father' fanfiction is 'The King's Secret Son'. It delves into the idea of Uther secretly being Merlin's father and how that changes the dynamic in Camelot. It has great character development and interesting plot twists.
One common theme is redemption. Uther has been so against magic, but in these fanfics, he often has to face his prejudices when it comes to Merlin. For example, he might realize that not all magic is evil through Merlin's actions.
One common theme is identity crisis. Merlin has to come to terms with being the son of a man who has persecuted his kind (magic users). Another theme is family secrets. The fact that this truth has been hidden for so long creates a lot of drama.
The theme of sacrifice is also quite prevalent. In many fanfictions, Merlin's father has made sacrifices for Merlin's future, which Merlin discovers as the story progresses. It gives a deeper understanding of their relationship.
One great Merlin Uther fanfiction is 'The King's Regret'. It delves into the complex relationship between Merlin and Uther. It shows how Uther might have reacted differently to Merlin's magic if he had known the truth earlier. Another is 'Uther's Hidden Affection', which explores a more emotional side of Uther towards Merlin, a side that was perhaps masked by his hatred for magic in the original series.
It would be very complex. Initially, Uther would be in shock. He has been hunting magic - users, and now his son is one. But he might also feel a sense of protectiveness. Merlin, on the other hand, would be confused and angry at being lied to about his identity. Eventually, they might start to understand each other more. Uther could see the good in Merlin's magic and Merlin could see the reasons behind Uther's actions, even if he doesn't agree with them all.
Maybe in the fanfiction, Uther discovers the creativity and the different perspectives on his world and characters, and he sees value in it. He might be a more open - minded version of himself in the fan - created stories.
Well, it could be a culmination of events. Uther's growing distrust of those around him, combined with Merlin's secretive nature about his magic. Merlin might be caught in the middle of a power struggle or a plot against Uther, and Uther, in his quest to protect his throne and Camelot, decides to eliminate Merlin without fully understanding the consequences. This would also create a great deal of drama and conflict for the other characters in the story, which is something fanfiction writers often strive for.
It could mean that in the context of the Merlin fandom, Uther's character is being depicted in a way in fanfiction that is acceptable or even favored by some fans. Maybe the fanfiction shows a different side of Uther that makes his actions more understandable or redeemable, and thus it is seen as approved within the fan community.