From Rowling Pulls It Off:

It has been widely observed that J.K. Rowling owes a creative debt to Christian fantasists J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis (apart from their fondness for initials). It's odd now to remember that, at the same time, some parents have objected to the magic depicted in the Harry Potter books as a glorification of satanic practices. For "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" confirms something else apart from the well-thought-out-ness of Ms. Rowling's moral universe: It is subtly but unmistakably Christian.

The principal Hogwarts holidays have always been Christmas and Easter, but it took five books before Ms. Rowling really began tipping her hand. In Book Six, "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince," she addressed concepts of free will, the power of love, and the sanctity of the soul. But in the final volume she gently lays it all out. The preciousness of each human life; bodily resurrection after death; mercy, forgiveness and redemption; sacrificial love overcoming the powers of evil--strip away the elves, goblins, broomsticks and magic wands and these are the concepts that underpin the marvelously intricate world of Harry Potter.

Actually the series has always addressed the concepts of love and free will in a way consistent with Christianity. But the Christian imagery was definitely strongest in the seventh book, and quite unmistakable - including imagery of the cross, quotation of scripture, and a Christ-like death and resurrection. Neville Longbottom also reminded me of David in some ways - the gentle boy who was willing to face the greatest evil. Other characters show true regret and remorse for their previous actions, and others reveal a capacity for total forgiveness.

While it would be hard to beat the level of Christian imagery in the Chronicles of Narnia, I do think the Christian imagery is probably as strong (or stronger) in Harry Potter than it is in Lord of the Rings. Christians should re-think their stance on Harry Potter.

Labels: books, movies