Harry Potter and the Deadly Socialists
I just finished reading the final book in the Harry Potter series. I noticed a couple of things. First, early in the book, Harry considers his Uncle Vernon’s trust in “the establishment,” even the establishment of the wizarding world (which he usually despises all things concerning), and is not surprised. Harry’s uncle, aunt, and cousin are in danger and it is this establishment, Vernon believes, that should do something. It is a clear dig at socialists who believe government is the answer to every problem.
Secondly, and repeatedly, J.K. Rowling brings up “the greater good” as it relates to not only Lord Voldemort’s plans but even revealing that, in his youth, the wise and kindly Albus Dumbledore once subscribed to the idea of pursuing the greater good, despite the costs to the freedom, even lives, of the few. Of course, Dumbledore eventually realized the mistake in his thinking.
I won’t reveal any more than that for those that may as yet not have completed the book. But it’s in there; Voldemort and his followers are a mixture of Nazi’s and communists.
August 14th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
Interesting thoughts on the book. It sure makes one look beyond just the fantasy story.