Book Series:
* Elena: While Damon has a history of manipulating and using Elena, he genuinely cares for her. He returns to Mystic Falls in *The Vampire Diaries* after a century of absence, largely due to his growing feelings for her and a desire to protect her.
* Family: Damon's deep-rooted connection to his family, especially his brother Stefan, is another driving force. He wants to reconnect with Stefan and potentially mend their strained relationship.
* Redemption: Though initially portrayed as a ruthless and selfish vampire, Damon experiences a shift in the books. He starts to question his actions and seeks a path towards redemption. Mystic Falls, the location of his past mistakes, represents an opportunity for him to atone.
TV Show:
* Elena: Similar to the books, Damon's feelings for Elena are a major motivator. He's drawn back to her, even when it means facing his past and confronting the demons that haunt him.
* Stefan: The show explores Damon's complicated relationship with Stefan, showcasing their shared history and deep bond. He comes back to Mystic Falls, hoping to find peace and rebuild their brotherhood.
* The Originals: The introduction of the Mikaelson family and their ancient feud with the Salvatore brothers adds another layer to Damon's motivations. He returns to Mystic Falls to confront the past and fight for his family's legacy.
* Self-Destruction: Damon's impulsive and self-destructive tendencies often lead him back to Mystic Falls. He's drawn to the drama and conflict, even when it brings him pain and suffering.
Key Differences:
* Damon's Relationship with Elena: In the show, Damon's love for Elena is more passionate and intense, while in the books, his feelings develop gradually.
* The Originals: This major plot element is exclusive to the TV show, adding complexity to Damon's motivations and expanding the scope of the story.
* Redemption: While both versions explore Damon's potential for redemption, the show focuses on his ongoing struggle with his darker impulses and his constant desire to prove himself worthy of Elena's love.
In summary, Damon returns to Mystic Falls driven by complex emotions, a desire to connect with his brother, and a yearning for redemption. Both the book series and the TV show explore these themes, offering different interpretations and nuances to his character.