Harry Potter and Christianity

[Mickey]

There's a little bit of a debate going on at a homeschooling board I visit--someone raved about the Harry Potter movie, saying why they loved it. Then several Christians posted about how evil it is and how anyone who is a Christian or believes in the Bible shouldn't be reading the books to their kids or taking them to see the movie.

I've never read any of the books, nor have I seen the movie, but I was wondering what you thought about this.

Here's a link one of the Christian's posted, btw:
http://www.worthynews.com/news-features-2/harry-potter-movie.html

[JeffP/MN]

I am Christian, but I don't see what the fuss is about. There are so many movies with some element of the supernatural-Cinderella, Snow White, Star Wars to name just a few-do those parents outlaw all of those movies? For that matter, I suppose trick or treating at Halloween is out as well.

Certainly their right as parents, but I disagree that it is the right approach. I would rather take an active role with the kids and watch a questionable movie with them and then talk about the points I was bothered by or disagree with.

Jeff

[AnnW]

I did read all the books when all the fuss first started up, and was surprised by how much I liked them (that subject isn't usually my cup of tea). I am a Christian and have no problem with the subject matter either. I do think that we have to be careful about allowing evil into our homes and around our children, I just don't think this qualifies as evil. I think if someone has strong feelings against it, they shouldn't take their kids, but I will decide for my family what they will and will not see.

[KarlaB]

I haven't read the books yet, but plan to. ( I also didn't read the link yet.) Just wanted to say that when my fil was sick this topic came up when we were hanging out at the hospital and I remember my fil's Methodist pastor saying she read the books and discussed them with kids at her church....she had no problem with the books............

[coulie]

I'm so glad someone brought this up because I just saw the movie. My dh and my two boys read all the books. I did not so when I went to the movie I had no idea what to expect. I very much enjoyed it.
The thing that came up for me, however, was that I have been surprised at the lack of response from fundamentalist Christians.
I am not a fundamentalist but I have a nieghbor ( whom I very much adore) who is and she does not even let her kids go trick or treating.
I saw her just today and asked her if she would let her kids see the movie. She said she didn't really know what it was about. I explained to her that while it was about sorcery and wizardry I thought it was more about fantasy. I suppose that explains the widespread appeal.
I told her I loved it but I thought about her while I was watching it. I was thinking, most definitely, that she would be very upset if she brought her kids.
I am pleasantly surprised by the responses here from Christians.
I wouldn't bring a small child to it though. It has some very scary scenes for little ones.

Coulie

[KathyT]

The underlying theme of the book is good vs evil, and in the end, good wins. Isn't that what we all want our children to believe? It is fantasy, just like The Lord of the Rings, Willow, or any of those other books/movies that deal with wizardry. I have no problem exposing my dks to the books and/or the movie. It gets them reading, which is a positive thing, and it is something we as a family have enjoyed immensely.

My only concern is for younger children. While the books are intense, you can put them down and take a break. The movie does have some very scary scenes, but it is rated PG so I guess parents have to assess that for their own children.

[AnnW]

Originally posted by KathyT

My only concern is for younger children. While the books are intense, you can put them down and take a break. The movie does have some very scary scenes, but it is rated PG so I guess parents have to assess that for their own children.


Kathy..I am really concerned about the scariness (is that a word?? LOL) and dd. She gets spooked very easily, but is DYING to see it. She is even wanting to try to read the books. Is it really that intense?

[Diane]

Originally posted by AnnW
Kathy..I am really concerned about the scariness (is that a word?? LOL) and dd. She gets spooked very easily, but is DYING to see it. She is even wanting to try to read the books. Is it really that intense?

I have never read the books nor have I seen the movie but I was talking to one of our neighbor's the other day and he mentioned how they had gone to see the movie and how they had to leave because their dd got too scared. I have no clue what the scary parts were all about but... this kid is usually pretty tough so I was surprised. I guess it depends upon your kids and what you think they can/can't handle.

Diane... :wave:

[Brichard]

I think that my ds is too young at 5 and definitely think dd is too young at 3. However, I agree with the sentiment on the board. I've heard all the arguments about not trick or treating, not celebrating Santa Claus, and avoiding all films with questionable content.

I just feel sorry for the kids who don't get to experience any of that. One of the coolest things about being a kid is your uninhibited imagination.

[Mickey]

Like I said, I haven't read the book or seen the movie, but I do know it's about wizardry and witchcraft. Saw an interesting program about it on PBS and it took things from the book/movie and showed the real life relationship. Referenced gods in mythology, castles in Scotland, etc. They even interviewed a male witch who discussed choosing the correct wood for a wand and how pointed hats originated. But, I digress...I just have a clue about it and I happen to agree that it's no big deal. Fun and fantasy. I can see where those who fear that kind of influence would have a problem with it, though, and I respect that--even if I disagree with it.

Do these Christians just take the Bible quotes too literally? I don't understand it, to be honest...never have.

[KathyT]

Is your dd familiar with the story? Has she read the books or have you read them to her?

The scary parts are very must like the book. Snape is spooky (loved him!), Filch is very very creepy and the scene with the invisibility cloak was equally creepy, and the scene in the forbidden forest is also dark and scary. But the ending is by far the most intense part. Voldemort is awful to look at. The whole ending is non-stop, just like the book.

We have now seen the movie twice, and dd2, who is also 7, has not seen the ending yet! She chooses to cover her eyes and just listen, and that is fine. Kinda cute actually. I thought for sure the second time she would peek, but not a chance.

[AnnW]

Kathy..no she hasn't, and to be honest, I really think she wants to see it cause 'everyone is talking' about it. Will have to sit her down before we go, and talk some more. Thanks.

[RCT]

Originally posted by Mickey

Do these Christians just take the Bible quotes too literally? I don't understand it, to be honest...never have.


exactly....;)