Person:
* Definition: A human being, often an ordinary individual thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
* Characteristics: Limited by human abilities, emotions, and vulnerabilities.
* Motivation: Driven by personal desires, survival instincts, or a sense of duty.
Supernatural:
* Definition: Anything that transcends the natural laws of the universe, defying scientific explanation. This includes:
* Deities and Demigods: Gods, goddesses, and other powerful beings who possess divine powers.
* Monsters and Creatures: Creatures that defy biological laws and possess supernatural abilities, like vampires, werewolves, and ghosts.
* Magic and Sorcery: The use of occult powers to manipulate reality.
* Spiritual Entities: Ghosts, spirits, and other disembodied beings.
The Conflict:
The conflict arises when the "person" encounters the "supernatural" and must contend with its power. This leads to a struggle where:
* The person's limitations are challenged: They must find ways to overcome their inherent weaknesses against a superior force.
* The supernatural's motivations are questioned: Why is the supernatural entity attacking, interfering, or interacting with the person?
* The person's values are tested: Facing the unknown and the unknowable forces them to confront their own beliefs and morality.
Examples in Literature and Film:
* Mythology: The stories of heroes battling monsters, gods, or demons (e.g., Heracles, Beowulf)
* Horror: Characters facing off against ghosts, vampires, or demonic forces (e.g., "Dracula," "The Exorcist")
* Fantasy: Protagonists confronting mythical creatures, magic users, or other fantastical beings (e.g., "Lord of the Rings," "Harry Potter")
Themes Explored:
* Fear of the unknown: The unknown nature of the supernatural creates a sense of dread and uncertainty.
* Human resilience: The person's ability to confront and overcome overwhelming odds demonstrates the strength of the human spirit.
* The search for meaning: The encounter with the supernatural can prompt existential questions about life, death, and the nature of reality.
In essence, "person vs. supernatural" is a timeless theme that explores the clash between the human and the divine, the natural and the fantastical. It taps into our primal fears, our desire for meaning, and our fascination with the unknown.