Does Harry defeat Voldemort? Yes. Does Harry die? Yes. And no.

Christian Literature?

In a previous Townhall column, Harry Potter and the Charmed Christians, I wrote about Christian-themed elements in the series (and touched on the occult controversy surrounding the books). Influenced by the work of John Granger, an Orthodox Christian, homeschooling father, college professor, blogger, and author of Looking for God in Harry Potter, I began to see these themes more clearly.

Rowling’s use of Christian themes and symbols across the series has been subtle, compared to how she uses them in the final book. Referring to earlier books, Granger writes, “Harry always dies a figurative death and is saved by love in the presence of a Christological symbol. The resurrection at story’s end each year is the culmination of that year’s cycle and transformation.” Rowling’s use of this imagery “marks her as a writer in the English traditions of writing faith edifying literature, what is often called ‘baptizing the imagination’ or ‘smuggling the gospel.’”

In Deathly Hallows, Harry’s death and resurrection are more than figurative. A strong theme in the series is substitutionary sacrifice, laying down one’s life to save others. In the final book, Harry believes he must die, so he willingly goes to his “death.” His willingness to die for others saves him, and he’s resurrected, in a sense. Harry’s sacrificial death defeated death.

And Christian readers can’t miss the symbolism of the Deathly Hallows themselves, three objects that conquer death.

Across the series, wizards celebrate and observe Christmas and Easter and sing carols, but in Deathly Hallows, we learn that wizards are buried in a churchyard in Godric’s Hollow. On Harry’s parents’ headstone is the Bible verse, “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death” (1 Corinthians 15:26). The headstone of late headmaster Albus Dumbledore’s mother and sister reads, “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:21)

I suspect the series will become a classic, and future generations will discover its treasures. As John Granger explains, the series is so popular because it contains “themes, imagery, and engaging stories that echo the Great Story we are wired to receive and respond to.”

Rowling may not have had such elevated intentions, but something in her stories resonates with millions all over the world. And it’s not Quidditch.