Power and growth are common themes. When a character is reincarnated as a demon or in a world with demons, they often have to gain power to survive. For example, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', the slime protagonist gradually becomes stronger. Another theme is identity. The reincarnated character may struggle with their new demonic identity or how they fit into the world of demons.
One common theme is the clash between good and evil. In many 'demon reincarnation light novels', the reincarnated character, even if they are a demon, may have a sense of justice or be forced to choose sides. In 'The Devil is a Part - Timer!', Satan has to deal with the idea of being a 'devil' in a human world. Also, the theme of redemption can be present. A demon - reincarnated character may try to atone for past sins or change the perception of demons in the world they are in.
Power. Usually, the reincarnated demon king has some form of great power from their past life that they can tap into. This power often makes them stand out in the new world they are in.
Power acquisition is a common theme. When a character is reincarnated as a noble, they often start from a position of relative power and then seek to expand it. For example, in many novels, they might gain new magical abilities or political influence.
Common themes include growth and development. The reincarnated protagonist usually starts from a weak or clueless state and grows in knowledge, power, and maturity within the school - like environment of the new world. Love and relationships also play a part. Characters may develop romantic feelings for their peers or mentors in the new world. In 'The Rising of the Shield Hero', the main character has relationships that develop over time within the context of the new world which has elements of a school in terms of learning and growth. Another theme is the clash of old and new values. The reincarnated character brings their old - world values and has to reconcile them with the values of the new world, which is often explored through the school - like institutions in these novels.
Power acquisition. In these novels, the reincarnated character, usually as a dragon, often has to gain power in order to survive in the new world. For example, they might have to learn new magic or combat skills.
The theme of relationships is also quite common. In these novels, the reincarnated characters form new relationships with various beings in the new world. In 'The Rising of the Shield Hero', Naofumi has to deal with complex relationships with his companions and the people in the new world. These relationships can be positive, negative, or a mix of both and play an important role in the development of the story.
One common theme is self - discovery. When the protagonist is reincarnated, they often have to figure out their new identity and abilities. For example, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', Rimuru has to learn about his slime powers and how to use them in this new world. Another theme is power - building. The reincarnated character usually starts from a weak state and gradually becomes stronger, like in 'The Rising of the Shield Hero' where the Shield Hero has to build his reputation and strength after being wronged. Also, many reincarnation light novels have the theme of friendship or comradeship. Characters form bonds with others in the new world, as seen in 'Konosuba' where the main character and his party members grow closer through their adventures.
Survival is a very common theme. Since the protagonist is often reincarnated as a relatively weak monster at first, they have to find ways to survive in a world full of threats. For example, in 'So I'm a Spider, So What?', the spider has to constantly hunt for food and avoid being killed by other stronger creatures.
Another theme is discovery. Since they are in a new form in a new world, there is a lot to discover. This could include new magical abilities, different races of creatures, and secrets about the world they are in. In many such novels, the reincarnated character stumbles upon ancient ruins or meets wise old dragons that help them uncover these secrets.
Love and relationships are often explored. The changed gender can bring new perspectives on love. A character who was male in a past life might now experience love as a female in the new world, and this can lead to complex and interesting relationship dynamics. There could be challenges in finding acceptance in relationships due to the reincarnation and gender - bender aspects.
Survival in a hostile world. Whether it's the demon lord against other powerful entities in the magical world or adapting to a modern world like in 'The Devil is a Part - Timer!', the theme of survival is quite common. The demon lord has to use their wits and powers to stay alive and relevant.