In the Words of a Fellow Muggle: Why Does the Spell of "Harry Potter" Continue to Draw in Readers?

An Overview of "Harry Potter"

Faye Meadows
The fantastic world of "Harry Potter" continues to amaze fans by combining wizardry, magic, and relatable characters into a fascinating story. However, the question of why the "Harry Potter" books are such a global phenomenon still comes to mind for many individuals. From muggle to muggle, hopefully, I can help shine some light on why fans are so hooked on J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter".

Story. In the beginning, we are first introduced to a young boy named Harry Potter. Unfortunately, we soon discover that our young protagonist lives a very unhappy life with his relatives the Dursleys. Seen as being nothing more than a burden and nuisance, Harry is constantly treated cruelly and unfairly. That is, however, until Harry is invited to join the magical world of wizards and attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Through this fascinating world, we follow Harry as he discovers magical spells, fantastic creatures, the sport of Quidditch, unique teachers, friends, and himself. Learning about his cruel past and potential fate, however, is truly a test of Harry's character and whether he is strong enough to face his nemesis Lord Voldemort. Is Harry capable of destroying Voldemort at last, or will Harry's anger blur his judgment and lead to his own demise instead?

Characters. The main character of this fantasy styled story is our young hero Harry Potter. Occasionally driven by his emotions, Harry strives to protect his friends and family as embarks on his adventures of the wizardry world with his best friends Ron and Hermione. A somewhat clumsy, but hilarious character, Ron Weasley is one of Harry's closest friends. Hermione Granger, another one of Harry's best friends, is one of the main female characters in the "Harry Potter" series. Intellectual and studious, Hermione is definitely a character whose strongest strength is her mind. Students, teachers, and numerous other characters also inhabit the halls of Hogwarts. Another interesting and unique character is the lead wizard of Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore. Wise and kind, this wizard may appear to be lacking in strength, but is indeed one of the strongest wizards in the wizardry world. The main villain of this fascinating series is, of course, the evil Lord Voldemort. Thirsting for power and immortality, the devious Voldemort is an excellent character that truly embodies the antagonist role. Although there are several characters, each character has their own personality that adds to the uniqueness of the "Harry Potter" novels.

Atmosphere. Humorous and light hearted, the first few novels in the "Harry Potter" are quite enjoyable. As you progress from novel to novel, you soon discover that the storyline begins to embrace a much darker side, especially after the introduction of monstrous Death Eaters. With each novel, new developments are made, and new darker elements are introduced that eventually add to the mysterious atmosphere of the "Harry Potter" series.

Themes. One of the most prominent themes that fill the pages of the "Harry Potter" books is the heart warming idea of friendship. Through trust and teamwork, Harry, Ron, and Hermione seem to overcome some of the most impossible situations that arise in the wizardry world. Another interesting theme is the troubles and tribulations that young people often experience in school. Whether it is finishing school work, earning the respect of teachers, arguing with friends, or overcoming romantic crushes, the concept of school related elements seems to be a major theme throughout the "Harry Potter" novels.

Connecting With Fans. The idea of connecting with readers is an excellent concept that has been well demonstrated in the "Harry Potter" franchise. Showing the flaws of characters, the trouble of relationships, and discovering the difficulties of adolescence and school are only a few ways that have added to the likability factor of this magnificent series. Although the majority of the story is fantasy based, the idea of using relatable elements in such a magical world lets readers escape into a fascinating story while still embracing realistic concepts. Because of this connection, readers continually find themselves drawn back in order to read and discover more about their favorite characters.

With its' mixture of fantasy, adventure, romance, and ability to connect with fans, the magical world of "Harry Potter" has grabbed the hearts of millions of readers across the world. Whether a child or adult, the "Harry Potter" novels have caused both hardcore readers and beginners to pick up a book and explore the amazing pages of the wizardry world. Where J.K. Rowling will take us next in the final installment of "Harry Potter" that goes on sale July 21st still remains a mystery. However, you can bet that fans across the world will wait be waiting in line to finally read the climax and fate of the young Harry Potter.

Published by Faye Meadows

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