Use of Imagery and Symbolism in J.K. Rowling’s Works (Essay Sample)

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29 September 2017
Use of imagery and symbolism in J.K. Rowling’s works
J.K. Rowling is indeed one of the most successful authors of our time. Harry Potter series; which comprises some of the most sold literary works in the world, is undoubtedly her magnum opus. Mastery, creativity and ability to narrate mystical stories in an enthralling manner have endeared her to a broad audience; especially young readers. Other than Harry Potter series, she has authored more than twenty literary works; ranging from short stories to non-fictions. Most of her works are centered on themes such as death, magical realism, supernaturalism, friendship and evil (Black 237-247). Symbolism and imagery; as literary devices, have been ubiquitously employed by the author in her works; and few examples being The Mirror of Erised, Harry Potter’s scar, wands, Quidditch, the Leaky Cauldron and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
Magic and wizardry are dominant in all Harry Potters stories. Symbolism and imagery of the two have been manifested multiple times through usage of ordinary things. Most of these ordinary things play a critical role in bridging the mysterious world of magic and wizardry with real life of the readers. Other than magic and wizardry, imagery and symbolism advances themes and motifs such as friendship, struggles, evil, death and love. To start with the wands, they are symbolic to a person’s character and personality. All the characters in Harry Potter series have unique wands. Harry Potter spent a lot of time at the shop of Mr. Ollivander trying to find a wand which could fit him well. This can only mean that all the characters in the series have unique personalities that are symbolized by the wands.
Harry Potter’s Scar; which has a shape of lightning, is another major form of symbolism and imagery. It brings out the qualities of determination and perseverance. By getting a scar while Voldemont was trying to kill him, Potter is everlastingly tied to past struggles─ which somehow have enormous influence in his future life. The scar also mirror’s Harry Potter’s destiny. It can be argued that the lightning-shaped scar shows that he is not an ordinary child; but rather a person with supernatural powers. In addition, the scar enables the reader to understand the softer side of Harry Potter. Whenever he is faced with hatred, the scar hurts him. This symbolism and imagery can be used to show that despite having supernatural powers, Potter still exhibits emotional attributes such as love, hatred, fear and happiness; which are often associated with ordinary people.
At one point in J.K. Rowling series, Harry Potter comes across the Mirror of Erised. This mirror has magical powers which enabled Potter to look into it and determined what he wanted in life. This symbolizes his personal growth. Previously, he had never taken a moment to figure what he want in life; but when he encounters the mirror, he gets an opportunity to figure out those desires. From what we learn, his greatest desire i...