Harry Potter is very refreshing after reading the Wizard of Earthsea. While fantasy is all about exploring fictional worlds, I feel that there needs to be at least something within that fictional world the reader can identify with. If there is nothing to be identified with in the fictional world, there should be an “examination” of reality by the author, as done by Rowling when she begins each book in the Muggle world. In the Wizard of Earthsea, it is difficult to form a relationship with Ged, because I feel as if his goal is to be as far from human as possible. In Harry Potter, Harry accepts that he is a human like the rest of us, but just with wizardly powers. Other than having these powers and unique adventures, he represents the qualities you would find in an everyday person. He goes to school (wizard school, but the idea is similar to school we attend), he has two best friends, he has enemies, and he plays sports. The reader is able to form a relationship with Harry, Ron, Hermione, and all the other characters, whether liked or disliked by those three main characters because of these human qualities they all have. Not only do we become involved in examining Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s friendship, but we also become a part of that friendship. I felt myself becoming angry when Harry wouldn’t listen to Hermione or when Ron and Hermione were fighting over something ridiculous. Their friendship is portrayed so well that readers know the characters need each other and it’s frustrating to us to see strife arise between them. Their friendship gets them through each book, just like the reader’s involvement in the lives of these fictional characters carries him or her through the series.
Purpose for Imaginative Literature
14 years ago
Hi Lauren, I really like what you said about the "examination" of reality that Rowling gives us in every book. I have often been annoyed at the Dursley section of each book, but what you have said helps me see the value in that section for better understanding the fantasy that Rowling creates.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree with you more Lauren. I love Hermione, maybe because I wish I was brilliant like she is, but also because she is a voice of reason for Harry. The relationship of the three kids is so relatable to our closest friendships. Not only can we relate, but we feel as if we are apart of their group. Harry Potter is not only an enjoyable read, it is a journey of growing up.
ReplyDeleteI agree 100% with you Lauren! I also had trouble connecting with Ged in A Wizard of Earthsea. Because Harry was introduced to us in his "muggle" world, we are able to relate to him on a more personal level. Also, the relationship Harry has with his two best friends is extremely important. A lot of times, Harry would have been in deep trouble if it weren't for his friends being by his side. This also allows me to relate to Harry and his friends on a more personal level, which is another reason I really enjoyed this novel!
ReplyDeleteI like how your views on the two books revolved around humanistic traits. Harry is perceived to be one of us, and I do believe this is why the books were so successful. On the other hand Ged was not lovable because he was not one of us. Everyone in the class loved Harry (even the little child) but no one liked get. Rowling knew what she was doing when she wrote these books. This is how she developed such a strong following.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree ... I feel that, as a reader, we grow with Harry and his friends. It's nice to read a book and have it hold a mirror to real life. I feel it's like a second chance to step back and observe our childhood experiences...
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you Lauren on Harry having more humanistic traits than Ged. But as to whether or not Ged was meant to seem less human I do not agree. I believe Ged is a different type of human, one more difficult to understand and relate too. I believe that even though he is distant and he lacks overall traits of a typical, likable hero, he is still a hero. Perhaps it is this factor that makes him more stoic and timeless than Harry, though I much prefer Harry to Ged any day!
ReplyDeleteGreat blog, Lauren! I agree with all of your points. I feel that I did grow up with Harry, Ron and Hermoine. I think that Rowling stresses the importance of friendship and having a support system so much in the Harry potter series. That's one of the reasons I love them so much. The characters are so relatable and they all had more humanistic traits than Ged.
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