The chosen one

Definition

The chosen one is a common trope in storytelling where a character is selected or destined to fulfill a significant purpose, often involving heroic acts, saving others, or bringing about change. This concept typically signifies a departure from the ordinary, placing the character in extraordinary circumstances that test their abilities and resolve, while also exploring themes of destiny, sacrifice, and identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The chosen one trope is prevalent across various genres, including fantasy, science fiction, and mythology, serving as a way to create relatable heroes who rise above their circumstances.
2. Many narratives using this trope emphasize a struggle with self-doubt and personal growth, allowing the chosen one to undergo a transformation that enhances their ability to fulfill their destiny.
3. The chosen one often possesses unique abilities or qualities that set them apart from others, making them suitable for their destined role in the story.
4. This trope can also challenge traditional notions of heroism by including elements of sacrifice, moral ambiguity, and the weight of responsibility that comes with being 'chosen.'
5. Subversions of the chosen one trope have emerged in contemporary storytelling, where characters may reject their destinies or question the societal expectations placed upon them.

Review Questions

• How does the chosen one trope contribute to character development in narratives?
  • The chosen one trope significantly contributes to character development by presenting characters with extraordinary challenges that force them to grow and evolve. As they grapple with self-doubt, responsibility, and the pressure to succeed, these characters often undergo profound transformations. This journey not only makes them relatable to audiences but also emphasizes themes such as resilience and self-discovery.
• In what ways does the use of prophecy enhance the narrative surrounding the chosen one?
  • Prophecy enhances narratives involving the chosen one by adding layers of intrigue and inevitability to the storyline. It creates tension as characters may strive to fulfill or defy these predictions, leading to complex interactions and plot twists. The foretelling of a character's destiny can also impact their relationships with others, either inspiring loyalty or inciting jealousy and conflict.
• Evaluate the impact of subverting the chosen one trope on audience expectations and narrative conventions.
  • Subverting the chosen one trope challenges traditional audience expectations by introducing complexity and unpredictability into storytelling. When characters reject their roles as 'chosen ones,' it prompts viewers to reconsider notions of destiny and heroism. This shift can lead to more nuanced narratives that reflect real-world dilemmas, allowing for deeper engagement with themes of agency, choice, and moral ambiguity in character arcs.

Related terms

Hero's Journey: A narrative structure that outlines the typical adventure of the archetype known as 'the hero,' emphasizing their transformation and growth through trials and challenges.

Prophecy: A prediction or declaration about a future event, often central to the narrative that supports the idea of a character being 'chosen' for a specific role or mission.

Messiah Complex: A psychological state where an individual believes they are destined to be a savior or deliverer, often seen in characters who embody the chosen one trope.