As a paranormal romance, the central conflicts of Breaking Dawn (and the Twilight series as a whole) are rooted in the love the characters feel or don’t feel for each other. The paranormal genre elements create heightened stakes around that love that include threats of violence, domination, and death, forcing the characters to grapple with the sacrifices their love requires of them. Breaking Dawn explores the interplay between these two elements, examining the ways the characters are willing to give up parts of themselves—and even their lives—for the ones they love.

Meyer repeatedly emphasizes Bella’s love and devotion to others as her defining character trait. From the moment that she falls in love with Edward in Twilight, an immortal life with him becomes her all-encompassing desire. In Breaking Dawn, Bella is willing to sacrifice her humanity to be with Edward forever. Giving up her humanity requires her to give up her friendship with Jacob, her relationship with her family, and her ability to age, choosing instead to remain 18 forever to build a life with Edward. As a vampire, this human devotion is heightened into a supernatural ability to project a shield that protects those around her from the Volturi’s mental attacks.