Scholars have long recognized that popular culture shapes our social and political
lives. Popular culture’s depictions of people, social relationships, and political issues
affect how fans imagine themselves and the world around them (Enstad, 1999; Hunting,
2012; Jenkins, 1992; Palczewski, 2005; Radway, 1991). Indeed, the bestselling
Harry Potter books are no different. The story of Harry’s defense against the evil wizard,
Lord Voldemort, depicts a range of social and political issues.