romance metamorphosis

     While reading through many of the stories on our reading list, I have noted that the characters go though a metamorphosis. They seem to cycle between being happy on their own, then miserable as they long for the one they love, there is a trial, and only then they find their way back to happiness. It seems love is more of a cruel trap which entangles the characters, wearing on them, confusing them and making them miserable. At this point, they are not ready for their true love. First terrible occurrences rip the lovers from each other's arms. This does not stop them if anything, having to deal with loss and hardship makes tempers their love into something strong enough to last. The key, in my opinion, is that the first stage is not love, but desire. The second is a test of their feelings. The third is true love. Northrop Frye notes, "...most romances exhibit a cyclical movement of descent into a night world and return to the idyllic world, or to some symbol of it like a marriage..."(Frye 54). While this is part of it, the issue I am concerned with at this point is the metamorphosis of the character.
    During the experience of descent and return, the characters evolve from just pretty or strong into someone who is ready for the love and commitment of marriage. Even if they never see each other again, they are also stronger as individuals. There is a parting from the safety of their childhood and a journey which makes them adults. This is something they must experience on their own. I feel part of the excitement of these stories is watching these characters develop. It is a bit like watching a child grow up. I would like to reach into the story and help them advance, but like raising a child, it is impossible to help them through all the hardships and still expect them to grow. The story would not be as valuable or exciting if this were possible either. It is not the beginning or end of the story that tends to be exciting, it is the middle; at least for me. I often forget how the tale began or ended, but even if I forget some details, I keep the excitement of the journey with me.