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

[strom5150]

No: HPFGUIDX 69311


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,

I've been lurking for awhile, but this is my first post. I was the 
opposite - I didn't realize that it was "Philosopher's Stone" in 
Britain until after having read the book (and perhaps the next few).

My understanding of the reason was not that the American publishers 
felt that we wouldn't understand the word "Philosopher," but that we 
would not be *excited* enough by it to buy the book. It was too 
intellectual for us. (You know, we have such short attention spans, 
crave reality TV over books, etc., etc.) :-)

So, yes, I did feel patronized when I found how different the 
editions are in regards to the Philosopher's Stone.

Danielle (Proud-to-be-a-nice-Slytherin)