Transformation and its Role in the Fandom

By Chase the Skunk

IntroductionWhat do skunks have to do with transformation? See this: http://www.firstpeople.us/FP-Html-Legends/ChiCaGo-

Ojibwa.html

TransformationDefinition: The act of changing one’s outward form or appearance

Art credit: Akireru on DeviantArt

Transformation● The earliest known instance of

transformation is in the Epic of Gilgamesh.

● Common theme in shamanism.

● Occurs often in mythology.

Transformation in Mythology● Most transformations done via

divine intervention or magic

● Common themes are:○ Punishment○ Escape

○ Deceit

● First tales of werewolves

Transformation in Folklore● Nearly all folktales involve witches,

wizards, or some form of magic

● Some had magic creatures that could willingly shapeshift

● Fairy tales expanded the themes○ The Chase○ Epiphany○ Love Conquers All

Transformation in Modern Media● Retellings of old stories

● More recent themes include:○ Coming-of-age○ Special Powers

○ Sci-fi

● Explored A LOT in all forms of media

Transformation in Modern MediaMovies

Transformation in Modern MediaCartoons

Transformation in Modern MediaAnime

Transformation in Modern MediaVideo Games

Transformation in the FandomFans of transformation are known as TF Fans, but not all of them are furries.

FurryFandom

TFFandom

Transformation in the Fandom● A niche part of the furry fandom

● Themes uncommon to mainstream:○ Costume○ Possession○ Inflation, taurs, etc.

Popular Transformation Archetypes#1 - Caused by Magic(Art by Betsy Beaver)

Popular Transformation Archetypes#2 - Male to female / Transgender

(Art by Betsy Beaver)

Popular Transformation Archetypes#3 - Clothes Ripping, Tearing, or Shredding

(Art by Flinters)

Popular Transformation ArchetypesMost Common Species

Wolf Dragon Dog

by Chase by Betsy by Ed

Transformation Art Sites

Transformation Stories

Transformation Comics

http://addictivescience.katbox.net/comic/page-1/

http://www.catomix.com/utc/comic/cover1

http://www.cansofbeans.com/comics/september

http://www.egscomics.com/

References● http://www.native-languages.org/legends-skunk.htm● http://www.merriam-webster.com/● http://www.werewolves.com/gilgamesh/● http://www.ancient.eu/gilgamesh● http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/totems-to-turquoise/native-american-

cosmology/transformation-and-shamanism● http://wikipedia.org● http://www.sf-encyclopedia.com/entry/shapeshifters● http://tvtropes.org●

References● http://www.transfur.com/● http://www.wikifur.org/●