"Sorcerer's"/Philosophers (WAS Bellatrix as Bella)

[Kirstini]

No: HPFGUIDX 69293

 
Terry wrote:> Speaking of PS/SS--in OOP, US version, when the group 
is thinking of forming their own DADA class, Neville says that 
Harry "saved that Sorcerous stone."  Hermione hisses, "Sorcerer's!"  
and Neville agrees.  Is that bit of dialogue in the UK version?  And 
if so, why? Does it make sense, since that wasn't the original title 
there?  > 

Me (Kirstini):
I hadn't realised until now that "Sorcerer's Stone" was used 
throughout the American editions. I'd assumed it was just the title, 
and that Nicholas Flamel was still allowed to be "the only known 
maker of the Philosopher's Stone".  The Philosopher's Stone is an 
ancient legend within alchemical lore, isn't it (I will willingly 
bow to superior judgement here, but I think I'd heard of it pre-PS)? 
I've always wondered if American listies didn't feel a bit 
patronised by the name-change, as not only does it alter the entire 
historical context of the books (see Hans' excellent posts on 
alchemy, as well as all Stoned!Harry TBAY posts, for some very 
wonderful alchemical debate), but we have been frequently informed 
on the news in Britain (both when the book and the film came out) 
that the name change was because Americans wouldn't understand the 
word "philosopher". (This was usually tacked on as a comedy item, 
equal to with Bungy the water-ski-ing budgie.) I hadn't realised 
that the switch had been as absolute as this.

Kirstini