The "chosen one" trope is a popular and enduring element in urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and romantic fantasy literature. It typically features a protagonist destined for greatness, often bearing unique powers or a special lineage. This trope captivates readers with its blend of destiny, adventure, and romance, and offers writers a rich vein of narrative possibilities.
Here are ten ways the chosen one trope is used in these genres:
1. Hidden Lineage Revelation
In many stories, the protagonist starts as an ordinary individual, only to discover they are the descendant of a powerful lineage. This revelation often occurs in urban fantasy settings, where the juxtaposition of the mundane and the magical heightens the surprise and drama.
Example: In Dark Lover by J.R. Ward, Beth Randall discovers her hidden lineage as a half-vampire, which draws her into the world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood and reveals her destined role within the vampire society.
2. Prophetic Destinies
Prophecies play a crucial role in defining the chosen one's journey. In paranormal romance, the protagonist might be destined to unite warring supernatural factions, often intertwining their fate with a romantic interest from an opposing side, adding layers of tension and intrigue.
Example: In A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness, Diana Bishop learns that she is part of an ancient prophecy that could change the balance of power among witches, vampires, and demons, intertwining her fate with Matthew Clairmont.
3. Unique Abilities
The chosen one often possesses unique abilities that set them apart. In romantic fantasy, these powers are not only a source of conflict and challenge but also an attraction for love interests, creating a dynamic interplay between personal growth and romantic development.
Example: In Moon Called by Patricia Briggs, Mercy Thompson discovers unique abilities tied to her coyote shapeshifter heritage, which become crucial as she navigates conflicts within the supernatural community and her relationship with Adam Hauptman.
4. Reluctant Heroes
A common variation is the reluctant hero, who initially resists their destiny. This reluctance adds depth to the character, as seen in urban fantasy where the protagonist grapples with accepting their role in a hidden magical world while maintaining a semblance of normal life.
Example: In Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost, Cat Crawfield initially resists her role as a vampire hunter, but she embraces her destiny through her partnership with Bones, which complicates their romantic relationship.
5. Training and Mentorship
Mentorship is a staple in the chosen one narrative. In paranormal romance, a mentor figure often helps the protagonist hone their powers, leading to intense training scenes that build tension and facilitate deepening romantic bonds.
Example: In Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews, Kate Daniels undergoes training and mentorship to harness her magical abilities, which deepens her connection with Curran, the Beast Lord.
6. Romantic Entanglements
Romantic entanglements are central in the chosen one story within romantic fantasy. The protagonist's journey is frequently complicated by love triangles or star-crossed lovers, where their destiny draws them together and pushes them apart.
Example: In Archangel's Blood by Nalini Singh, Elena Deveraux's relationship with Archangel Raphael is marked by romantic tension and conflict, complicated by her role as a hunter and her connection to the angelic world.
7. Sacrificial Themes
The chosen one often faces sacrifices. In urban fantasy, this might involve giving up a normal life to save the world, adding emotional depth and highlighting the stakes of their journey.
Example: In Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison, Rachel Morgan often sacrifices her safety and personal desires to protect her friends and uphold justice in a dangerous magical society, affecting her relationships with Ivy and others.
8. Hidden Enemies
The protagonist's path is frequently littered with hidden enemies, including betrayers within their close circle. In paranormal romance, this can heighten the suspense and challenge the protagonist's trust, impacting their romantic relationships and adding layers of mystery.
Example: In City of Bones by Cassandra Clare (Mortal Instruments), Clary Fray faces hidden enemies within the Shadowhunter world, impacting her trust and her romantic relationships with Jace and others.
9. Climactic Battles
Climactic battles are a hallmark of the chosen one narrative. In romantic fantasy, these battles often symbolize the ultimate test of the protagonist's powers and resolve, with their romantic interest typically playing a crucial role in the outcome.
Example: In Burn for Me by Ilona Andrews, Nevada Baylor engages in climactic battles that test her magical abilities and resolve, with her relationship with Rogan playing a key role in the resolution.
10. Legacy and Future
Chosen one stories often conclude with a focus on legacy and the future. In urban fantasy, the protagonist might establish a new order or pave the way for future heroes, leaving readers with a sense of continuity and hope.
Example: In American Gods by Neil Gaiman, Shadow Moon's journey shapes the future of the old and new gods, leaving a legacy that influences the balance of power and belief in the modern world.
Considerations
For readers and writers alike, understanding the chosen one trope involves exploring these elements to craft compelling narratives and engage audiences with the timeless allure of destiny and love.
By incorporating these aspects of the chosen one trope, writers can create rich, immersive stories that resonate with readers, while readers can appreciate the depth and complexity that this beloved trope brings to their favorite genres.