Here are some aspects of British culture that readers can learn or observe through the books and movies:
- Language and Humor:
- The books are filled with British English, providing readers with exposure to the language, including colloquialisms and expressions commonly used in the UK.
- The series incorporates British humor, wit, and wordplay, which can give readers insights into the cultural nuances of comedy.
- School System:
- Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry reflects certain aspects of the British boarding school system. The houses, uniforms, and school traditions are reminiscent of real-life British educational institutions.
- Sports and Leisure:
- Quidditch, a popular sport in the wizarding world, mirrors the importance of sports in British culture. The excitement and fervor surrounding Quidditch matches are akin to the passion for sports like football (soccer), rugby, and cricket in the UK.
- Tea Culture:
- The British love for tea is subtly present in the series. Characters often have tea in various situations, reflecting the cultural significance of tea-drinking in the UK.
- Architecture and Landscape:
- Descriptions of magical locations, such as Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, draw inspiration from traditional British architecture. The depiction of the countryside and the magical creatures also reflects the rich folklore and natural beauty of Britain.
- Government and Politics:
- The Ministry of Magic represents a magical government structure, and its bureaucratic nature echoes elements of British governance. The presence of the Minister of Magic and the Wizengamot reflects aspects of political systems found in the UK.
- Cultural Celebrations:
- The series includes magical celebrations and events such as the Yule Ball and the Triwizard Tournament. These events parallel real-world British festivities and celebrations.
- Values and Morality:
- Themes of bravery, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil are universal, but they resonate with certain cultural values that are often associated with British literature and storytelling.
While «Harry Potter» is a work of fantasy, its roots in British culture are evident throughout the series. Readers can gain a sense of the cultural backdrop that influenced the creation of the magical world, offering a unique and entertaining way to explore various aspects of British life and traditions.
When the books were made into movies, everyone wanted to become a witch or wizard, go to Hogwarts school or even just visit Platform 9 ¾ (Kings Cross Railway station in London.) These are also some amazing locations used during the Harry Potter movies:
Images courtesy of Harry Potter Movie Locations in the UK – Follow Harry, Ron and Hermione (jurajmicka.com),
- Oxford University and Christ Church College were host to various scenes filmed at Hogwarts school.
- Alnwick Castle was the inspiration for the exterior of Hogwarts School.
- The Jacobite Express railway journeys through the dramatic Scottish countryside.
- You can visit these locations on guided tours and take a ride on the Hogwarts Express. The Warner Bros studio tour near London lets you experience some of the film sets, see the costumes created, and watch how they filmed the special effects. We have students who visited this attraction while in England on their summer school experience.
Are you a Harry Potter fan? See how many you can guess (answers below) :
- What is a MUGGLE?
a. A witch or wizard
b. A teacher at Hogwarts
c. A non-magical person
2. How many copies of the first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, sold worldwide?
a. 12 million
b. 50 million
c. 120 million
3. Who is Tom Riddle?
a. Harry Potter’s father
b. Voldemort
c. Headteacher at Hogwarts
4. In which city can you find Warner Bros Harry Potter studios?
a. London
b. Birmingham
c. Edinburgh
d. Glasgow
How did you do with your Harry Potter knowledge?
Answers:
1.c
2. c
3. b
4. a
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