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. For example, the
books depict young people as capable and empowered: Harry and his friends regularly
succeed at protecting the school and defeating Lord Voldemort when the adults
around them fail to take action.The books also depict a commitment to equality.The
villains in the books are wizards who aim to disenfranchise any nonwizard magical
creatures and any wizards born to nonmagical parents. However, Harry, the hero of
the books, befriendsHagrid, a half-giant,Hermione, a witchwith nonmagical parents,
and Ron, a wizard who comes from a poor family. Popular culture like Harry Potter
influences our discourses on social and political issues such as equality and gives fans
an opportunity to reimagine themselves and others.