Looking Back Question...

[Jim Ferer]

No: HPFGUIDX 182051

Geoff: "Although I agree with you in much of what you say, I would not
compare Harry with Aslan. C.S.Lewis intended Aslan represent Christ in
a children's tale designed to introduce them to the truth of
Christianity, so he is a Christ figure."

I don't want to run afoul of the restrictions on religious discussion
here, but I've always felt Lewis, who wanted Aslan to stand for
Christ, succeeded in making Aslan stand for all martyrs. Many had done
what Aslan did: give themselves up for others. Harry was certain he
would die and let Voldemort "kill" him to protect his friends and
fellow students.  And while I know Harry didn't in the event die, he
freely accepted death for the sake of others and didn't even know he
wasn't dead for a while. The comparison with Aslan doesn't have to be
perfect to be fair.

So we're really not far apart in this interpretation. Any differences
in opinion don't change the power of love as a theme that runs all
through the tale.

Jim Ferer