What Does Uke Mean In Wattpad?
If you’re an avid Wattpad reader, you might have come across the term “uke” or “seme” in some of the stories you’ve read. These terms originated from the Japanese yaoi genre, which refers to romantic relationships between male characters.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of “uke” in Wattpad and how it relates to the yaoi genre. We’ll also discuss the various tropes and character archetypes associated with uke characters in Wattpad stories.
What is Yaoi?
Yaoi is a Japanese term that refers to fictional media, such as manga, anime, and novels, that features romantic and sexual relationships between male characters. The genre is often associated with the terms “boys’ love” or BL.
Yaoi gained popularity in the 1970s and 80s in Japan and has since spread to other countries. The genre has a dedicated fan base and has given rise to numerous sub-genres and tropes.
What is an Uke?
In the context of yaoi, “uke” refers to the submissive partner in a male-male relationship. The uke character is typically depicted as smaller and more feminine than their counterpart, the “seme.”
The uke is often portrayed as physically weaker and more emotionally vulnerable than the seme. They are typically the more passive partner in the relationship and rely on their partner for protection and emotional support.
While uke characters are often portrayed as vulnerable, they are not necessarily weak. Many uke characters display strength and resilience in the face of adversity, and their vulnerability can make them more relatable to readers.
Uke Tropes and Archetypes
In Wattpad stories, uke characters are often associated with various tropes and character archetypes. Some common uke tropes include the “cute and innocent” uke, the “bad boy” uke, and the “tsundere” uke.
The “cute and innocent” uke is a popular trope in yaoi and is characterized by their childlike appearance and innocent demeanor. The “bad boy” uke, on the other hand, is typically more rebellious and rough around the edges. The “tsundere” uke is a character who starts off cold and aloof but gradually warms up to their partner over time.
In addition to these tropes, there are also various archetypes associated with uke characters. These include the “femme” uke, who is portrayed as more feminine and delicate than other uke characters, and the “uke-hero,” who saves the day despite being the more submissive partner in the relationship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “uke” is a term used in Wattpad stories to refer to the submissive partner in a male-male relationship. The uke character is often portrayed as smaller and more feminine than their counterpart, the seme, and is associated with various tropes and archetypes.
While uke characters are often vulnerable and reliant on their partners, they are not necessarily weak. Many uke characters display strength and resilience in the face of adversity, making them relatable and compelling to readers.
We hope this article has shed some light on the meaning of “uke” in Wattpad and the yaoi genre. Whether you’re a fan of yaoi or just curious about the genre, understanding the various tropes and archetypes associated with uke characters can enhance your reading experience.
