One common theme is the power of magic in a military setting. Merlin's magic often provides an edge in battles or helps solve military - related problems.
The theme of secrecy is also prevalent. Merlin has to keep his magic a secret from most of the soldiers at first. This creates a lot of suspense as he tries to use his magic without being discovered. Also, the discovery of his magic by some soldiers can lead to different reactions, from fear to acceptance, which further adds to the complexity of the stories.
Another theme is friendship and loyalty. Merlin forms strong bonds with the soldiers he meets. For example, he might save a soldier's life, and in return, the soldier becomes a loyal friend and protector. There are also themes of sacrifice, where Merlin or the soldiers might sacrifice themselves for the greater good.
One common theme is the struggle between Merlin's magic and the military structure. In most of these fanfictions, Merlin has to keep his magic a secret among the soldiers who may not be accepting of it. Another theme is loyalty. Whether it's his loyalty to his comrades as a soldier or his loyalty to his true self as a sorcerer. And of course, heroism. Merlin often becomes a hero in these stories, using his magic to save the day in the military situations.
One common theme could be loyalty. Merlin, being a soldier, would show loyalty to his comrades, his cause, or his kingdom. Another theme might be sacrifice. Soldiers often have to make sacrifices, and in a Merlin - as - a - soldier fanfiction, he might sacrifice his personal desires for the greater good. Also, the theme of honor could be prominent. He would strive to uphold his honor in battle and in his interactions with others.
One big theme is the exploration of magic. In many Merlin female fanfictions, the female characters are either learning magic, or have a special connection to magic that is different from the male characters. For instance, a female character might have a more intuitive approach to magic. Also, the theme of friendship is present. A female character could form a strong friendship with Merlin or other characters like Guinevere, and this friendship is crucial in their adventures.
Power and responsibility are common themes. As Merlin becomes king, he has to handle the power he's gained while being responsible for his kingdom. Another theme is magic and its role in ruling. Since Merlin is a powerful sorcerer, fanfictions often explore how his magic affects his kingship, whether it's for protection or for the betterment of the kingdom.
One common theme is the loss of hope. As Camelot collapses, the characters often struggle with losing their faith in the future. Another theme is the test of loyalty. Friends may turn against each other in the face of chaos.
Another theme is the empowerment of female characters. In these fanfictions, the female characters usually break free from the traditional roles and show great strength and independence, especially in the context of their relationships.
A prevalent theme is the exploration of magic itself. How the magic in the Harry Potter universe and that in the Merlin universe are related or different. Also, destiny plays a role. Fanfictions often explore how their destinies are intertwined, whether it was meant to be that they meet and change the course of events in both their worlds.
One of the main themes is the conflict between Merlin's secret magic and the public perception in the royal court. There's also the theme of destiny. Merlin is often seen as having a great destiny in relation to the royalty. And love, whether it be platonic or romantic between Merlin and the royal characters, is a frequent theme. For example, in many fanfictions, Merlin forms a deep bond of friendship with Arthur that is almost like a brotherly love. His loyalty to Arthur and the kingdom is constantly tested by his need to hide his magic.
Magic is a very common theme. Since it's about Merlin's ritual, magic is at the core. It often shows how powerful Merlin's magic was through the ritual.
One common theme is the display of friendship. When Merlin has a fever, his friends, especially Arthur, often show deep concern and loyalty. Another theme is the exploration of Merlin's magic. Sometimes the fever is related to his magic in some way, like it being a side - effect of using a powerful spell.