In human into monster transformation stories, a prevalent theme is the power that comes with the transformation. Some stories show how the character gains superhuman strength or abilities as a monster but at the cost of their normal life. Another theme is the fear of the unknown. The transformation is something that is not understood by the character or those around them, leading to a sense of mystery and horror. Also, there's the theme of transformation as a form of evolution, where the character is evolving into a different form, whether it's for better or worse.
There's 'Beauty and the Beast' in a way. The prince is transformed into a beast as a punishment. It shows his inner state of being cold - hearted before. Also, the 'Ancient Greek myth of Lycaon' where Lycaon is turned into a wolf. It was a story of divine punishment for his impiety. These stories all explore different aspects of human into monster transformation.
Identity crisis. The transformation makes the character question who they are. Are they still the same person inside? In 'Overlord', Momonga has to deal with his new identity as a powerful being in a game world and how that differs from his human self. He has to adapt to the moral and ethical implications of his new form and power.
One popular 'human to monster transformation' light novel is 'Overlord'. In it, the main character Momonga is trapped in a virtual game world and gradually transforms in a sense into a more monstrous and powerful being as he rules over his new domain. He has to deal with various races and challenges in the game world which he now dominates.
There are many monster transformation stories. For example, in Japanese mythology, there are tales of kitsune (fox spirits) that can transform into humans or other forms. They often use this transformation to play tricks on humans or to experience human life. In some Slavic folklore, there are stories of people being turned into vampires, which is also a form of monster transformation. These stories usually involve a curse or some dark magic that causes the transformation.
One common motif is the loss of human speech. When a human transforms into an animal, they usually lose the ability to communicate in human languages. This emphasizes the separation from human society and the entry into a more primitive state. Another motif is the change in physical abilities. For instance, if a human turns into a bird, they gain the ability to fly, which represents a new form of freedom but also a new set of challenges.
In literature, human - animal transformation stories often carry deep symbolic meanings. For example, in 'The Metamorphosis' by Kafka, Gregor's transformation into an insect represents his alienation in society. It shows how society can make a person feel like an outcast, like a non - human being. These stories can also explore themes of identity and the loss of it. When a human turns into an animal, they lose their human identity which they have been accustomed to, and they have to face a new form of existence.
In a slime monster transformation story, the transformation could be triggered by a variety of factors. For starters, a diet change might lead to transformation. If the slime monster starts consuming a new type of substance, it could affect its body composition and lead to a change in form. Additionally, environmental factors play a role. For instance, if it moves from a wet, swampy area to a dry, desert - like place, its slime might harden and transform it. Emotional factors can also be involved. If the slime monster experiences extreme emotions like anger or fear, it could cause internal changes that result in a transformation.
A common element is often a trigger. In many stories, it's a bite, like in 'Spider - Man'. Another is the change in physical abilities. Usually, the transformed being gains abilities related to spiders, such as climbing walls or producing webs. Also, there is often a change in appearance, with the character taking on spider - like features like multiple eyes or hairy limbs.
A theme of self - discovery is also quite prevalent. Through the transformation, the character discovers new aspects of themselves, both good and bad. They might find that they have new powers or abilities that they didn't know about before. Also, the theme of acceptance, either by themselves or by others, is often explored. Some characters struggle to accept what they have become, while others around them may have a hard time accepting the new, monstrous version of their friend or family member.