The first book presents direct and simple examples of shapeshifting, as well as the ease in which people (and lifeforms) can move between the worlds.
With Platform 9 3/4, it provides a superb example of how things can exist in the human/Middle/Muggle world, without people seeing them, or at least being consciously aware of what's right there.
Words and Phrases
The terminology in the book is generally accurate, with only one significant problem:
In real life, male witches are still called witches. Or you can use the term wizards, which has a slightly different meaning.
However, the term warlock comes from an early Scottish expression, generally interpreted as "traitor."
Lesser differences of opinion concern the characteristics of the faeries, including trolls and boggarts. However, we will discuss those in future articles.
Worth reading?
In general, the Harry Potter books are entertaining and helpful reading for adults and children alike.
From a strictly literary viewpoint, the first book is fun and a good introduction to the concepts and history of Harry Potter's world.
The second book is vastly better than the first, in depth of character and plot, and use of vivid imagery.
The third steps into more tangled and dark concepts, but also enriches the continuing story.
And, from a spiritual standpoint, the Harry Potter books are an important, non-academic way to explain the shades of grey when dealing with magick and the Otherworld.
Snape is menacing, but appears to have inner conflicts and some scruples. (I won't reveal important plot turns.) Characters are not wholly good, strong, or even evil. The Dark Arts exist, and there are some limitations on defenses against them, but we don't pretend the Otherworld and magick are all dazzle and happy fantasies.
I am delighted with this book series and its popularity, on many levels.
But mostly, I'm thrilled to see "thick" books that children delight in reading, that present a generally balanced and well-grounded interpretation of what's real and what isn't.
More about Harry Potter's world?
In future article, we'll discuss trolls, boggarts, and other "magical creatures" in fiction, including the Harry Potter books, books by Edward Eagar, and Tolkien's Lord of the Rings.
Links
- harrypotter.com, the Official Harry Potter site, from Warner Bros.
- Harry Potter Books from Bloomsbury, the UK publisher, including adult editions, a newsletter, and more.
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