The fear of death stems from the fear of the unknown, as no one actually knows what happens when we die. One`s religious beliefs can help with this fear, as religions put forth different beliefs of what happens when we die. The fascination or importance of wanting to know what happens is from the uncertainty of one`s life and the comfort one feels in knowing “life” extends beyond death. Furthermore, it gives comfort to those who have lost loved ones, as one wants to think their loved ones are in a better place where they are no longer suffering and not simply in a coffin in the ground. J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series deals predominantly with the theme of death and the obsession it can render. The series do not talk explicitly about what happens after life but the desire for immorality is central to the books. For example, Lord Voldemort seeks immorality by attempting to steal the philosopher’s stone that allows the possessor to live forever. In addition, Lord Voldemort separates his soul into seven Horcruxes therefore if one dies than one can be brought back to life. The phenomena of death is marked by traditions within society and religious institutions, the unknown and therefore a fear of death and the desire to seek comfort in one's belief of what happens after death.
Resources:
Rowling, J.K. “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.” London: Bloomsbury, 1997.
Simpson, A. “Face to Face with J.K. Rowling: Casting a Spell over Young Minds.” The Herald. SMG Newspapers Ltd, 07 Dec. 1998. http://www.accio-quote.org/articles/1998/1298-herald-simpson.html
Image sources:
No comments:
Post a Comment