[HPforGrownups] Harry Potter?A Worthwhile series??

[Allen, Rebecca]

No: HPFGUIDX 33586

<long analysis on HP ethics vs. Narnia/Hobbit snipped>

Isn't this the thing about the HP series that makes it so engrossing, that the kids do not have good and evil laid out for them in pure black and white, so they *have to* make ethical decisions for themselves (like breaking the rules to save an innocent character)? Good and evil are sometimes a little fuzzy, and all of the characters (children and adults) have flaws and vulnerabilities -- just like real life. That's why it's so compelling! Perhaps this is why it appeals to adults more often than the Narnia series, in which some of us find the morality a little too heavy handed. But I think HP must also appeal to parents who want their children to learn how to weigh out ethical decisions so they can grow up to think for themselves. When I eventually have kids, that's how I plan to present this to them.

The Hobbit is actually a little more complex than the preceding analysis, e.g. Bilbo's theft of the Arkenstone wound up being the best thing he did, even if he originally did it for questionable reasons. Plus his adventure sets him at odds with his conservative community after his return -- but this isn't a Hobbit discussion list. ;-)

Sorry folks if you've discussed this topic ad infinitum over the years; I'm still a little new to the list, but I just had to reply.

Still if this topic suits people, I can recommend an article:
http://www.decentfilms.com/commentary/magic.html
I disagree 100% with this fellow's conclusions (I happen to like my authority decentralized), but his analysis is pretty accurate.

/Rebecca


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