Rowling's muggles

[E S]

No: HPFGUIDX 30990

This is something that has been bothering me for a while.  It relates to the 
recent discussions about wizard attitudes to muggles.

Does anyone else find themselves somewhat perturbed by the depiction of 
muggles in Rowlings world?  Their most prevalent representatives are the 
odious Dursleys and even in minor appearances, such as Mr Roberts at the 
Quidditch World Cup, muggles are portrayed as ignorant and idiotic and 
somewhat of a nuisance.  Professor McGonagall uses the phrase "the worst 
kind of muggles" and Hagrid says "a great muggle like you" as an insult.  
The general consensus seems to be wizards good, muggles bad.

Yet on the other hand we are asked to be appalled by the attitudes of 
wizards like Lucius Malfoy.  Now, while I am by no means saying that I find 
myself sympathising with Lucius et al, I know I wouldnt be too upset if 
Voldemort knocked off the Durselys and I cannot help but feel as though the 
idea of muggle protection has more in common with animal welfare than 
human rights.

Does anyone else wish we could have a prominent and sympathetic muggle 
character? I know we have the muggle borns, like Hermione or Lily, but even 
that seems to have an attitude like "you dont have to be ashamed of your 
muggle heritage - youre still a real witch no matter what your parents 
were."

Perhaps Hermiones parents could play a bigger role (incidentally, am I the 
only one who *really* wants Hermiones mum to be called Helen?!).  They are 
obviously intelligent (with a daughter like Hermione, what else could they 
be) and judging by their willingness to go shopping in Diagon Alley they 
have no problem with the magical community - it would be nice to see their 
perspective.  Who knows, perhaps Hermione even has a heretofore unmentioned 
sibling.  Lets face it, we know such a little about her family life beyond 
the fact that her parents are dentists that anything is possible.

We have Lupin to show us that not all werewolves are bad, Hagrid and Madame 
Maxime promote the nicer side of giants  the muggles need someone too!

Anyone agree, or am I all by myself here?

- Emily.


"I just met a wonderful new man. He's fictional, but you can't have 
everything." ~ The Purple Rose of Cairo


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