One common theme is the mystery. For example, in 'Ghost Hunt', the mystery of what is really haunting a place and how to deal with it. Another theme is the coexistence or conflict between the living and the dead, like in 'Natsume's Book of Friends' where Natsume has to navigate his relationship with the yokai.
The theme of the past haunting the present is quite common. In many ghost anime stories, something from the past, like a tragic event or an unfulfilled wish, causes the ghosts to linger in the present world. This can be seen in various anime where the main characters have to uncover the past to solve the problem with the ghosts.
Isolation is another theme. The characters might be isolated from the normal world because they are the only ones who can see the ghosts or they are in a haunted place. In 'Ghost Hunt', the investigators are often in spooky locations cut off from the outside world while dealing with ghosts.
The theme of lost love is also quite prevalent. A ghost may be lingering because of unfulfilled love or a broken promise. This can create a very emotional and poignant story. Also, there's the theme of the unknown and the fear it brings. The viewers are often left in suspense as the characters in the anime try to figure out the nature of the ghostly presence.
The themes of ghost stories can include lost love. A ghost might be lingering because of unfulfilled love or a broken heart. Haunted places are another theme. Abandoned houses, old castles, or desolate cemeteries are often settings in ghost stories. And then there's the theme of the afterlife. Ghost stories sometimes explore what might happen after death, whether it's a peaceful transition or a state of unrest.
Another theme is transformation. Whether it's a physical transformation like in 'Ranma 1/2' or a more psychological and social transformation in terms of how a character is perceived, this change often drives the story forward and allows for character growth and exploration of different aspects of the self.
One common theme is acceptance. The stepmom figure often has to be accepted by the family members, especially the children. For example, in many anime, the new stepmom has to prove herself worthy of being part of the family.
One common theme is unrequited love. In many anime, a character loves someone who doesn't initially return those feelings, like in 'Kimi ni Todoke'. Another theme is sacrifice. Characters might sacrifice their own desires or even safety for the sake of their loved ones. Also, growth through love is common. As the characters fall in love, they grow as individuals, like learning to be more confident or understanding in 'Lovely★Complex' where the two main characters with height differences grow together in their relationship.
Well, the theme of redemption can be quite common. For example, in cases where a character was once a tool for the possessing evil force but then tries to break free and redeem themselves. In 'Inuyasha', some characters who were influenced by the dark powers try to find a way back to the light. Another theme is the exploration of human nature. Possession often reveals different aspects of human nature, whether it's the will to survive against a possessing entity as in 'Tokyo Ghoul' or the capacity for change when dealing with an inner possession like in 'Soul Eater'. And then there's the theme of friendship and support. Friends often play a crucial role in helping the possessed character, like in 'Naruto' where his friends support him in dealing with the Nine - Tails.
Innocence is also a big theme. The state of being in diapers can symbolize a pure and untainted state. In anime, characters may start off with this kind of innocence and then face challenges that test or change it. For instance, in some slice - of - life anime, the main character is naive at first and gradually becomes more worldly - wise.
Another theme is the power of love to transform. For example, in 'Fruits Basket', Tohru Honda's love and kindness gradually change the Sohma family members who are cursed. Her relationships with Kyo and Yuki are filled with love that helps them overcome their insecurities and the family curse.
Love is a very common theme. For example, in 'The Garden of Words', there is a kind of unspoken love between the two main characters. Another common theme is friendship, like in some short stories of 'One Piece' where the characters' friendships are emphasized.