Harry Potter: Meek?

Jun 17, 2004

Posted by: KristinTLC

Uncategorized

James Cook University PhD student Natasha Giardina says most modern children’s literature promotes the idea that kids should listen to their elders, and be “meek, mild and obedient”:
On the surface the text seems to say, ‘Look kids! This is your culture. We’re on your side, especially against adult authority figures.’ But a closer analysis demonstrates that the writer is merely using this strategy to sell adult ideas such as: ‘adults know best’, and, ‘parents are a source of security when things get tough’.

Ms Giardina looked at fantasy fiction stories written from 1900 to 1997, which included Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, by CS Lewis.





The Leaky Cauldron is not associated with J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros., or any of the individuals or companies associated with producing and publishing Harry Potter books and films.