Unpredictable and Predictable Werewolf Plots: Examining Common Themes in Literature

Werewolf stories have endured for centuries, captivating readers with their blend of mystery, suspense, and supernatural elements. These tales often evoke both fear and fascination, exploring the psychology of a person transforming into a ferocious creature of the night. While some werewolf narratives that predictably follow certain trends, there is still plenty of room for unpredictability. In this article, we will delve into some of the most predicted and least predicted werewolf plots in literature, examining why they work and what makes them special.

Predictable Werewolf Plots

While werewolves have endless possibilities, certain plotlines in werewolf literature tend to be more predictable. These include:

The Am I Monster Plot

The most common and enduring werewolf narrative involves characters who struggle with their double life. This often culminates in internal conflict, a dark transformation, and the realization of one's true nature. As werewolves, these characters must navigate the challenge of balancing their human and animal sides. Writers like Robert McCammon, best known for his novel Stinger, and Kelley Armstrong, famous for Bitten, captivate readers by portraying this internal struggle.

The Fated Mate Plot

Another recurring theme in werewolf literature is the fated mate narrative. These characters are often driven by a destiny that requires them to either die or find their mate to break the curse. Publishers and readers in the last two decades have found this genre particularly appealing as Werewolf/Paranormal Romance novels steadily gained popularity. The Paranormal Romance (PNR) genre, for instance, has enriched the werewolf literature spectrum, with numerous authors exploring this theme, such as Christine Feehan with her Shadowscape series.

Kill the Monster

While this plotline may seem less common, certain werewolf narratives still follow a killer monster theme. This classic narrative involves a lycanthrope that terrorizes a small town, and the human protagonist must track down and destroy the curse or the werewolf. This subgenre has been explored in works like Under a Crow Black Moon by Sharon Shinn.

The Vampire vs Werewolf Plot

The werewolf-vampire dynamic is another recurrent theme in werewolf literature. These narratives typically pit both creatures against each other, exploring the conflict and competition between these supernatural beings. This can be seen in various horror novels and Paranormal Romance (PNR) works where both beings vie for power and supremacy. Such plots are both thrilling and engaging, often featuring intense action and intricate plotting.

Exploring Less Predictable Werewolf Plots

While werewolf literature is replete with predictable narratives, there are also exciting and unique werewolf stories that defy the norm. These works often push the boundaries of the traditional werewolf genre, providing fresh and innovative storytelling experiences:

Breaking the Curse

One unique and less predictable werewolf narrative involves characters who seek to break the curse that has affected their family for generations. These stories often explore themes of family, tradition, and the desire to change one's fate. Bestselling author Ilona Andrews delves into this theme in her Mercy Thompson series, where characters attempt to rid their family of their lycanthropic nature.

Werewolf and Human Love

Another surprising and less common werewolf plotline involves characters who explore a romantic relationship between a werewolf and a human. These narratives challenge the typical werewolf stories that often perpetuate the idea of the werewolf as a cursed beast. Authors like Christine Feehan in The Dragon () Protocol have succeeded in creating compelling stories that highlight the love and acceptance between werewolves and humans, thus breaking away from the typical narrative.

Psychological Depth

Werewolf literature with a deeper psychological exploration offers a fresh take on the werewolf genre. These stories delve into the mental and emotional struggles faced by lycanthropes, often mirroring the psychological turmoil experienced by any human in a crisis. The novel The Wolf Among Us by Orson Scott Card provides a deeply introspective look into the mind of a werewolf, exploring themes of identity and revenge.

Conclusion

Werewolf literature, much like any other genre, has its predictable plotlines and groundbreaking new narratives. While certain themes like the fated mate and vampire vs werewolf war are well-established, there is still much room for innovation and creativity. By examining both the predictable and unpredictable werewolf plots, we not only gain insight into the enduring appeal of this fascinating genre but also understand how authors continue to push the boundaries of storytelling.

Whether you're a fan of the familiar werewolf stories or are looking to dive into something new and unexpected, there is always something to love in the diverse landscape of werewolf literature. So, pick up your book, snuggle up, and let the mystery and magic of the werewolf world transport you to another realm.