what kind of story is HP? (was:Re: Who will betray the order)

[jwcpgh]

No: HPFGUIDX 82942

 Laura:
will there be a betrayal at all, and if so, why?

 Kneasy
> 
> I'm obviously looking at potential plot developments from a very
> different angle from your own viewing stance.
> 
> Why must everything be a learning experience for Harry? This isn't
> Pilgrim's Progress, you know. Or at least I hope it isn't. I've 
been looking forward to each new book as an exciting addition to an
> epic tale, not as a sociological study in juvenile emotional 
growth. Sure, we are  watching Harry grow up, but IMO that is to 
providesome continuity to the tale, not an end in itself.

Laura again:

You raise an interesting question-are the HP books a personal saga 
or an epic of a world in crisis?  Can they be both?  Given that JKR 
has titled the books around her central character, I'd argue that 
she sees them as being primarily about him. Since she places him in 
a world of her own creation, we inevitably learn a lot about that 
world and its situation, especially since Harry's personal 
challenges are reflected in those confronting the larger WW.  But 
I'd contrast JKR's aims with those of, say, Tolkein, who wanted to 
create a true epic and didn't focus on any one character in 
particular.  

Of course, then the question arises, how should JKR proceed if the 
books are a personal saga vs what she should do if they're an epic 
about the WW?  For one thing, I suppose if they were the latter, she 
could kill off Harry...but I sure hope she doesn't.