Mythical Rudiments and Prototypes in the Potter Series and its Cinematic Adaptation

Abstract

Mythic themes and epitomes are present in the Potter series (Mills 7-8; Ramaswamy 127-221). Sorcerer’s Stone familiarizes us to the hero, known as The Boy Who Lived and later, The Chosen One. Harry is the child, a naive and orphan; many tales have a child brought up by individuals who do not love him or her. Vernon is a shadow father, Aunt Petunia is a terrible mother (as is Aunt Marge), and Dudley and associates are bullies. Professor McGonegal serves as nurturing mother figure, wise woman, and unattached maiden. Dumbledore, as wise old man and mentor, always knows what is best. Rowling’s characters fit other epitomes. The Weasleys fill the role of surrogate family; Mrs. Weasley is the good mother and Mr. Weasley is the stern but loving father figure. We meet the tricksters, Fred and George, and Ron who will become the loyal companion. Ginny Weasley develops from a damsel in distress in Chamber of Secrets to a shield maiden in Order of the Phoenix. In Diagon Alley and on the Hogwarts Express, Draco Malfoy is set as a rival and bully, along with Crabbe and Goyle. Hermione is a mixture of wise woman, loyal companion, and shield maiden who helps in the mission and battles. Neville Longbottom and Luna Lovegood are scapegoats. Most Hogwarts scholars are either on the side of good or evil, shown through the individuality of the four houses and the sorting. Adult characters fit inside recognized categories also. Professor Lupin is a shapeshifter and scapegoat, as is Sirius. They serve up as father figures and mentors to Harry. Tonks is one more shield maiden, prepared to fight not only dark magic but civilization for her love for Lupin. Rita Skeeter is a gossip, spoil the truth. Cho Chang is the temptress, even traitor. Lily is cast as holy mother who puts aside Harry by her love. Mrs. Black is another terrible mother, as are childless surrogates Bellatrix Lestrange and Dolores Umbridge. Peter Pettigrew is the final traitor; his actions resulted in the death of Harry’s parents and the return of Voldemort.