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I have a story outline that involves a werewolf, but the change is mental and spiritual rather than physical, "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" rather than Lon Cheney. In effect, it is a magically induced PCP high that removes inhibitions, helps with focus and allows the practitioner to perform feats of great strength and endurance while making them immune to pain or fear.
There are two problems with "releasing the beast," however. First, the transformation allows one to shed negative feelings and insecurities like a ratty old coat, and even well adjusted humans carry around a lot of negative feelings and insecurity. Brain activity in the cortex is slightly suppressed, with a corresponding higher activity in the more primitive areas of the brain, particularly the pleasure centers and the limbic system, which regulates emotions. In short, the transformation is very addictive on both a physical and a psychological level.
Second, the beast never quite goes back into the cage. Each transformation takes the practitioner further into his bestial nature, and each return restores less humanity. Gradually, the beast becomes dominant and the person becomes psychotic. In fact, many cases of extreme psychosis are the result of were magic.
I agree about the physical transformation, but I think a magical -- or maybe it is just chemical after all? -- transformation of the mind and personality fits perfectly with much of the real life (sic) lore on werewolves.
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