And why?
2007-05-11 10:09:43 · 9 answers · asked by Atticus Finch 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I asked only Protestants because they're the ones who complain about Harry Potter being the work of the devil. And J.R.R. Tolkien was Catholic which explains why the Lord of the Rings books are a subtle description of the end.
2007-05-11 10:56:06 · update #1
Lord of the Rings has more magic in it than Harry Potter. I was curious why Protestants are so active against Harry Potter which was written by a Protestant rather than L.O.T.R. which was written by a Catholic and has a lot more magic included than Harry Potter.
2007-05-11 10:58:56 · update #2
I reserve final judgment until I've read the last Harry Potter book but... I love Lord of the Rings more than I love Harry Potter, but only if you include The Hobitt with the Lord of the Rings.
Why do *some* Christians complain about finding magic in a work of FICTION? Gasp! I still haven't figured that out. But I think there are some very subtle Christian truths in both the Lord of the Rings and in Harry Potter, particularly in the way that they deal with magic. In both series, magic is a simple extension of the individual's will upon the world around them. It is the way in which they use their will that determines whether their magic is specifically good or evil.
Also, I think the Harry Potter books provide a nice literary means of teaching the 7 Heavenly Virtues (Temperance, Prudence, Justice, Courage, Faith, Hope and Love). See the link below for an essay if you're interested.
2007-05-11 12:07:35 · answer #1 · answered by dreamed1 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Just interested to know... how come you only asked protestants? (I'm LDS).
I think Lord of the Rings is "worse" because it would be scarier for children, as the bad guys seem to be more powerful, and the consequences to the world (if they win) more disastrous.
On the other hand, Lord of the Rings is a struggle between good and evil, showing an inspiring story of courage and co-operation... and the good does triumph in the end. It makes me feel like I must keep struggling on against the opposition life gives, because it is important for people's welfare that I never give up hope. My family and friends - and anyone who might become my friend/family in the future - depend on me to be a force for good in their lives.
My kids play Harry Potter on the computer (Goblet of Fire, and Prisoner of Askaban). I'm not sure whether or not this is a good thing. I used to be against it... but I guess the whole issue with Harry Potter gives me an opportunity to explain some truths to the kids, ie, like the concepts of make-believe vs reality, and how Jesus' power is a bit like magic, but not quite... and then explain to them how God's power works, and how that is different to the "magic" or Harry Potter - which is just a nice fantasy.
I was inspired by images of G-Force (ie Battle of the Planets) and He-Man when I was a kid - super heros who could fly and were strong and courageous. It never made me believe it was really possible, but it gave my heart and dreams a boost... made me want to try harder to be someone special. I think maybe Harry Potter will be like that for my kids.
2007-05-11 17:23:18 · answer #2 · answered by MumOf5 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I am a Christian and I love the Lord with all of my heart...He is my whole world. That being said, I enjoy the story line of both Harry Potter and the Lord of the Rings. I think they are both very original and unique...but they are only stories to enjoy. Another movie that people never seem to throw into the mix is Star Wars. I think that one is the worst of all, because either Anakin or Luke (I don't remember which one) was said to have been born of a virgin.
I think that Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings are equal in their portrayal of magic and sorcery, however. Hope this all makes sense!
2007-05-11 17:15:52 · answer #3 · answered by misskatiemichelle 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I've enjoyed both of them.
Harry Potter is a great coming of age story - teen years, boys and girls and confusion, trying to find out who you are, school angst, etc. It's got it all, plus some magic (good vs. evil) thrown in for some fun!
Lord of the Rings - great characters, wonderful writing, trials and tribulations, good vs. evil, etc.
2007-05-11 17:19:04 · answer #4 · answered by usafbrat64 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I like them both. However, J.R.R. Tolkien was actually a Christian and LOTR is actually supposed to have a very subtle Christian theme. Apparently it's more evident in the book than the movies.
2007-05-11 17:14:53 · answer #5 · answered by David 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
harry potter never like lord of the rings why didnt you not ask catholics this
2007-05-11 17:17:42 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Harry Potter does more to glorify witchcraft. lord of the rings is a timeless story of good versus evil. it was written by J.R.R. Tolken, he was a devoute presbyterian i think. anything that encourages the practice of witchcraft is wrong and i dont let my daughters watch it.
2007-05-11 17:16:21 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
neither,
I like em both, but I'm not protestant
2007-05-11 17:12:42 · answer #8 · answered by danksprite420 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
why is your question aimed at Protestants?
2007-05-11 17:14:37 · answer #9 · answered by GirlUdontKnow 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋