So I know I'm a little late to the party, but I've just started reading the Harry Potter series for the first time. I started reading "Prisoner of Azkaban" last night and am intrigued to say the least. I haven't even seen the movies so this is all new to my Muggle brain! =)
I don't want to use this blogging format to stir up controversy, but there has been a lot of discussion over the last 12 years regarding this series. And I'd like to know your thoughts (in a completely respectful and gracious manner to all other opinions). The main thrust of the controversy is over now (since most of it has been aimed at the Twilight series), but likely the vast majority have read the books or at least seen the movies.
As for my two cents, there is a clear picture of good vs. evil theme throughout the book and evil is depicted by greed, pride, selfishness and control whereas good is depicted as loyalty, honesty, working towards something greater than your own means, and risking your own life for the people you care about. These are universal themes of goodness that are simply set in a backdrop of wizardry.
So, what are ya'll's thoughts on the Harry Potter franchise? Good/bad/indifferent? No spoilers!!!
6 comments:
like the movies; not interested in the books. too long and i have other things to do. BUT i have seen all the movies, most of them even in the theatres at $8 a pop.
I prefer the books to the movies but that's because the books contain everything and the movies contain what they can fit in for a 2.5 hour movie. Still good though!
I think that most of the people who are against the books haven't read them and won't read them therefore their judgment is not valid.
While I in no way, shape, or form support the actual practice of wizardry and witchcaft, I think these books are great. They have gotten kids to read and get out from in front of the TV for a little while. They show the importance of friendship and getting an education. And, I agree with you, that there is clearly a good vs. evil thing going on in the books where good wins everytime. The books may have a wizard/witchcraft background, but from my recollection, no spells or ingredients to potions are mentioned, and even if I have forgotten and they were mentioned, they are IMAGINARY.
I am sad that the series is over and sad that I have no time to read the books again.
Happy reading!
Love,
Roommate
I love them. All of them.
Ok, not so much the second one, but still. I think they're great and actually gave people something to sit down and read and enjoy.
Yeah, they talk about magic, but the Bible talks about cutting up prostitutes and washing feet in the blood of the wicked. If we have to have a sit down talk about literature, we might best be looking at our own first. ;)
SINNER. those books turn kids into witches.
ok. not really. I love the books and the movies. I have no problem with the books, my problem came from people saying horrible things about the books without ever having read them. :)
My beef with HP is the consistent disrespect for authority. Harry and the gang always disregard the rules and the adults who make them, yet rarely suffer any consequences. The author seems to justify this theme with the idea that Harry is acting for a greater good. Since he is not acting out for fun or acting out because he thinks he can get away with it, his lack of regard for rules and for authority is accepted and even praised. But I still think it's wrong.
Stephen, I totally agree. The kid wouldn't have 1/2 as many problems as he does if he'd just go to Dumbledore. Seriously. But then, I suppose that Rowlings wouldn't have much to write about if there were no conflict. Ron's by FAR my favorite character. Followed closely by Hagrid. Harry Potter himself? meh...
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