Predatory seduction: Scenting as a catalyst for power hierarchy in omegaverse fan fiction

Authors

  • Kelsey Entrikin University of Strathclyde

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3983/twc.2023.2035

Keywords:

Power dynamics, Social hierarchy, Teen Wolf

Abstract

This article expands on previous scholarship on the subject of social power in the Omegaverse fan fiction genre and how its often unequal distribution can be used as a metric for the various community perspectives on power. I examine how the wolfish trait of scenting (produced by extra olfactory glands) can be read to reinforce roles of predator and prey within the genre using examples from the popular Teen Wolf fandom. While some Omegaverse fics might use the animal traits, such as scenting, to manufacture predatory relationships for purposes beyond social commentary, there is overwhelming evidence in the more popular fics to support a more critical examination within the community of the power hierarchies they interact with.

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Published

2023-09-14

Issue

Vol. 40 (2023): General

Section

Article

License

Copyright (c) 2023 Kelsey Morgan Entrikin

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