The phrase identifies a specific intersection of legal terminology and a popular fanfiction archive. It refers to stories published on Archive of Our Own (AO3) that explore the legal reasons or justifications characters might use to legally dissolve a marriage. The stories might delve into infidelity, abuse (physical or emotional), abandonment, irreconcilable differences, or other circumstances recognized by law as sufficient cause for ending a marital union. A fictional example might feature a character citing spousal neglect or a pattern of controlling behavior as contributing factors in a divorce case within the narrative.
The popularity of this theme on AO3 speaks to a desire to explore the complexities of relationships, particularly within established fictional universes or character pairings. This area allows authors to delve into the darker or more emotionally charged aspects of relationships, often providing opportunities for character development and explorations of legal or societal frameworks in unique and creative settings. Historically, divorce has been a subject of significant legal and social change, and fictional portrayals on platforms like AO3 often reflect these shifts in attitudes and legal standards.
