One common theme is isolation. Merlin often feels alone with his traumas, as he can't fully share them with others in the story. Another theme is self - blame. He tends to blame himself for things that have happened, even if they were out of his control. For example, if someone gets hurt while he was trying to protect them, he might think it was his fault.
A theme that often shows up is the struggle to trust again. After experiencing trauma, Merlin may find it difficult to trust new people or even those he was once close to. Also, the theme of PTSD - like symptoms is common. Flashbacks and nightmares are frequently depicted in these fanfictions, which really show the impact of the trauma on Merlin.
One common theme is self - discovery. Bella often has to figure out who she is after the trauma. Another theme is the impact on relationships. Her relationships with friends, family, and love interests can change significantly. For example, she may become more withdrawn from Edward in some fanfics.
One common theme could be the long - lasting effects of the battles and losses in the original series on the characters. For example, a fanfiction might explore how Neville Longbottom still has nightmares about the war at Hogwarts years later.
Well, 'Shadows of the Past' is a really good one too. It shows Merlin haunted by past traumas that keep resurfacing. The story has a great plotline that weaves in elements from the original series and adds new, darker aspects related to Merlin's trauma. It's full of twists and turns that keep you hooked.
One common theme is the clash of different magical systems. Merlin has his druidic magic and Loki has his Asgardian magic, so a lot of fanfics explore how these two types of magic interact. For example, in some stories, they might try to combine their powers to defeat a common enemy.
In sub Merlin fanfiction, a major theme is secrecy. Given Merlin's sub position, he must keep his magic a secret, and this secrecy drives a lot of the plot. Another theme is growth. He grows as a person and as a magic - user while being in a sub role. It's about how he overcomes the limitations of his position. Additionally, the theme of sacrifice is common. Merlin is often in situations where, because of his sub role, he has to sacrifice something for the greater good, whether it's his own safety or his relationships.
The theme of sacrifice is also quite prevalent. In many fanfictions, Merlin's father has made sacrifices for Merlin's future, which Merlin discovers as the story progresses. It gives a deeper understanding of their relationship.
In Merlin vampire fanfiction, the theme of acceptance is quite common. Whether it's Merlin accepting the existence of vampires or the vampires accepting Merlin's power. Another is the theme of transformation. Merlin might transform in some way due to his encounters with vampires, or the vampires themselves may transform, either physically or in their attitudes. And the theme of forbidden knowledge often pops up, as the vampires may possess knowledge that is both dangerous and alluring to Merlin.
Another theme is friendship. The neckerchief can be a focal point for the relationships Merlin has with Arthur, Gwen, and the other characters. For example, it might be a gift from a friend that holds special meaning.
Another theme is self - discovery. When Merlin crossdresses, he often discovers new aspects of himself or how others perceive him differently. For instance, he might learn that he can be more confident in a different guise. Also, it can be about breaking gender norms. In these fanfictions, Merlin challenges the traditional gender roles of the Camelot society, which adds an interesting layer to the story.
One common theme is the shock and disbelief among the characters. Given Merlin is male in the original series, his pregnancy is quite unexpected, so characters often struggle to come to terms with it.