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?
In Cockrell (2004), she pointed out an argument that is Harry Potter a literature or a manual for the evil arts? The most noticeable reason of the religious right in the US condemns fantasy is the content of fantasy literatures is not exactly follow the scripture. Although “not reality, doesn’t diminish its power to change beliefs and values” (Kjospa.5-6), besides even we both know those fantasy stories are not real, the setting in Harry Potter’s world is too close to our life. He somehow is living in where we live. In other way, the target audiences of most fantasy literatures are kids or teenagers, they haven’t got their own norm, value and beliefs. So in this case, not only the religious right in the US but also the parents think these are some pitfalls there may lead some serious problems.
Using Harry Potter as an example, at begin of the article Cockrell defines that Harry Potter is just like the other popular literature like the lord of the ring, most famous Cinderella and so on. She thinks the reason why there is so many detractor out there because firstly Harry Potter is too popular, and detract Harry Porter can be a business, especially for those fans websites.
Reference
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
Kjos, Berit, “Twelve Reason Not to See the Harry Potter Movie.” 16 Nov. 2001. AFA online. American Family Association. 13July 2005. (http://www.afa.net/culture/bk111601.asp)
I think you want to say that the conservative Christian families worry that Harry Potter will take their children away into the fantasy world. As a result, the disapproval of it is understandable. However, it's not because of it didn't follow the Scripture I assume.
ReplyDeleteI don't think the parents are worried that they will go into a fantasy world i think they are worried about their children reading the potter books because they are about witches, wizards and magic. Witchcraft has always been disproved upon among christian people and this is why they condemn the potter books.
ReplyDeleteHaha, true enough, even some portion of the Eastern family didn't actually encourage their children to read those about witchcraft. However, Cockrell also mentions about the parody of the 'muggle' try to prevent Harry (a child) to be invited into the wizard world (fantasy world).
ReplyDeleteActually, I do think that conservative Chinese families are similar with conservative Christian families. Both of them worry about Harry Potter will take their children away into the fantasy world.
ReplyDeleteAdd a short words is that I agree with Simon's thoughts.
ReplyDelete