Fictional love: The tales of love beyond reality

Have you ever felt a spark of attraction towards a fictional character? Perhaps it’s the dashing hero from your beloved romance novel or the charismatic lead from your go-to movie or TV series. If so, take comfort in the fact that you are not alone. At some point in our lives, each of us has experienced the enchantment of a fictional character. It’s a perfectly normal and human response to the captivating world of fiction. 

It’s not uncommon for people to develop feelings for fictional characters. These characters are designed to be relatable and attractive, drawing us into their world. When we feel a connection with a character, we can't help but become emotionally invested, sometimes even developing romantic feelings. This is a testament to the power of storytelling and its impact on our emotions.

There are many reasons for people to fall in love with fictional characters. Sometimes, it’s because the character personifies qualities we admire and wish to have ourselves. 

They are part of a story that relates to our personal life. Moreover, in a fictional world, everything is created with absolute perfection, so it feels like a safe place to explore our emotions. 

Moreover, falling in love with a fictional character can be a form of escapism that offers a reprieve from the complexities and challenges of real-life relationships. 

It allows us to immerse ourselves in a world where everything seems perfect, providing a sense of relief and comfort in the face of the uncertainties of the real world. 

Aysha Tofayel, a Mass Communication and Journalism student at Dhaka University, is a passionate reader of fiction who has found herself enchanted by the character 'Ryle Kincaid' from the famous romantic novel 'It Ends with Us.' She fell in love with the charming qualities of the book's male lead and fantasized about a romantic relationship with him. She often emerges in her imagination of their imaginary interactions and feels a sense of longing whenever she reads the book. 

For the past decade, we have observed a trend where women are really into K-drama protagonists and often fantasize about them as their beloved fictional characters. They like those characters not in terms of good looks but in how they treat and interact with the female characters in those dramas. Their respectful and considerate behaviour towards every female character looks appealing to most female viewers. 

They love how Korean heroes are often portrayed as gentle characters towards the women they love. Women are drawn to Korean heroes as their beloved fictional characters due to the attractive and desirable traits they personify, which match the qualities women seek in their romantic partners. Korean heroes are often seen as supportive characters who support their partners and provide encouragement to pursue their dreams. They listen to their opinions, treat them equally and protect them from harm. 

Nabilah Islam, a student of Islamic University who is an avid fan of K-drama, stated that she had been deeply moved by the male characters of K-drama not for their looks but for the delicate and respectful behaviour they show. 

She thinks Korean heroes are known for their unwavering devotion and loyalty towards their loved ones and are perfect role models for healthy relationships. 

These lovely gestures allow women to fall in love with them.

While it's natural to feel a deep connection with a fictional character, it’s crucial to remember the distinction between fantasy and reality. 

These characters are meticulously crafted, and their qualities are scripted. Becoming too invested in a fictional relationship can lead to disappointment and a skewed perception of real-life love. Maintaining a healthy perspective and recognising fictional romance's limitations is essential.

But, despite these limitations, I was never afraid to embrace the experience of loving someone from the book's pages. After all, love knows no bounds, not even those of fiction. 

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