The Hidden Key to Harry Potter (Was Four Books)

[Goddlefrood]

No: HPFGUIDX 143705

"Bruce Alan Wilson" asked whether anyone had read specifically four 
books listed in the thread starting post.

I have read none of them, however I did read some years ago (prior 
to OotP) "The Hidden Key to Harry Potter" by John Granger, one of 
the authors on Bruce's list. I take it this was an earlier 
incarnation of the book mentioned by Bruce.

The basic thesis of the Hidden Key is that the Harry Potter series 
is a Christian series of books with an important message to those of 
that faith. Somewhat in the manner of Tolkien and Lewis in fact and 
there are strong parallels drawn by Mr. Granger with the Middle 
Earth novels and the Narnia Chronicles.

As with many analysyts Mr. Granger appears to have a propensity for 
over interpretation, but his basic theory is sound and argued 
convincingly.

That Mr. Granger declares himself to be a strong believer himself is 
a credit to him and it is from that viewpoint that he argues his 
case. The danger with this approach is that he starts with pre-
conceptions about how the HP books are formulated and he has little 
evidence, other than to say that JKR is herself a Christian, to 
support his thesis.

I am well aware of the arguments that the HP books are in some way 
rather moral and have strong underlying values in them. That they 
appeal to a broad spectrum of races and religions is no mistake as 
there are many elements of several religions and what are often 
described as pre-religions (mythology).

In all the major religions there is conflict between good and evil 
and figures who are notorious on both sides (think of the multiple 
names of God and the Devil as examples).

My conclusion would be to suggest that rather than take other's 
views on the HP books one should form one's own opinion.

Goddlefrood (hoping this makes sense to list members)