Why does the religious right in the US condemn fantasy, according to Cockrell (2004)? On what grounds does Cockrell defend fantasy literature using Harry Potter as an example?
The religious right in the US condemns fantasy because it is directly associated with the devil (Cockrell, 2004). It is believed to “indoctrinate our children in witchcraft and satanism” (Brooks, 2001) among other frowned up consequences. Shores (2005) supports this by suggesting that “Harry Potter books encourage children to rebel against their parents... and to assume power for themselves” which is frightening for any parent, especially a fundamentalist Christian one. Last Trumpet Ministries International (2005) highlights the deadly reality that this form of entertainment is in fact a well disguised witchcraft handbook. In addition, because Harry Potter is a low fantasy narrative, his living in our world combined with his endless popularity with children is harmful to their spiritual wellbeing (Cockrell, 2004). However, Cockrell (2004) defends fantasy literature through Harry Potter on the grounds that the magic there is no different to that found in Cinderella, The Wizard of Oz and The Lord of the Rings. This is a real wonder because fantasy is a major part of modern children’s literature, yet Harry Potter is set aside as an evil art.
Brooks, W. Letter to the Editor. (2001, December 9). The Roanoke, p.2
Cockrell, A. (2004). Harry Potter and the Witch Hunters: a social context for the attacks on Harry Potter. The Journal of American Culture, Vol 29, No 1
Last Trumpet Ministries International. (2005). Wiccan Witchcraft. Retrieved August 12, 2011, from http://64.233.161.104/search?q=cache00jacpwxizgJ:www.demonbuster.com/wiccan.html+demonbuster+Harry+Potter&hl=en
Shores, L. T. (2005). Harry Potter, A New Twist to Witchcraft. Retrieved August 12, 2011, from http://www.exposingsatanism.org/harrypotter2.htm
A bit extreme dont you think? there really is no difference between the Wizard of OZ and Harry Potter (there is but it isn't drastic). Its like blaming the story "The Little Digger" for encouraging children to drop out of school and become construction workers. The bible can be interpreted in many ways, plus if you actually read it, it covers some pretty seemingly anti-christian stuff. Water being turned into wine? if i was to take a similar viewpoint to that which is used in this argument, id say that right there is encouraging alcoholism. Therefore, all drink driving and alcohol related crimes can be blamed on God. Thanks God :P
ReplyDeleteWow Tristan that's something I never actually thought about before. You're right, there actually are references made in regards to alcohol. It really makes you think outside the square and actually see things differently. Also to add to the extreme part, there are a lot of people who will go to such lengths as to have Harry Potter material removed; other ridiculous attempts will involve groups in parts of the world dedicating time, money and energy to do unnecessary things. Who knows, maybe its just my opinion but it is pretty ridiculous don't you think?
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