There is a deep-seated human desire to be "chosen" by a mentor. Being the "favorite student" is a powerful ego boost; being the "beloved" is the ultimate version of that validation. The Evolution of the Trope and Professional Boundaries
Authors love exploring the shift in power. As the student grows older or more capable, the dynamic shifts, creating a "tug-of-war" that keeps readers engaged.
Would there be interest in exploring how this trope is handled in a specific genre, such as historical fiction or academic satire?
For many, a teacher is the first adult outside of the family who provides validation, inspiration, and undivided attention. This creates a natural breeding ground for "limerence"—that intense, often one-sided infatuation.