Abstract of Paper to be Presented at Accio 2005

Harry Potter and the Bible

Lisa Cherrett

Starting from C.S. Lewis's observation that much of the best secular literature includes what he called "sub-Christian values", this paper explores some of those values that might be found in Harry Potter. While claiming no allegorical intent by J.K. Rowling, it proposes that the warnings against judging character by surface appearance, the consequence of personal choices between "what is right and what is easy", the contrast between Voldemort's and Dumbledore's attitudes to power, Fawkes's role as encourager, and the significance of Harry's refuge in his mother's blood, all reflect important aspects of biblical Christian belief. It therefore refutes the accusation by some sectors of the church that Harry Potter is in any way anti-Christian.

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