J.K. Rowling’s Efforts to Make Characters in Harry Potter More Diverse: A Retrospective Analysis

J.K. Rowling’s Efforts to Make Characters in Harry Potter More Diverse: A Retrospective Analysis

Over the years, debates about the diversity of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series have been frequent. Critics argue that while the series does feature a few minority characters, these characters can often appear superficial or lack significant depth. A notable example is the addition of a black Hermione in Cursed Child, which some argue was merely an accident. In this article, we explore whether Rowling has retroactively made characters in Harry Potter more diverse.

The Argument Against New Diversity

Some critics contend that additions like a black Hermione in Cursed Child are merely superficial changes that don’t contribute much to the overall diversity in the wizarding world. This is evident in the fact that to make room for a potentially black Hermione as Minister for Magic, J.K. Rowling had to remove the established, fully-developed black character, Kingsley Shacklebolt, who was a more suitable choice. Shacklebolt’s removal suggests that the black Hermione may have been added as an afterthought, rather than an intentional effort to enhance diversity.

The Existing Diversity in the Series

On the other hand, it can be argued that the Harry Potter series was already quite diverse when it was first published. The series, which began in the 1990s, features a selection of minority characters that contribute to the depth and authenticity of the world Rowling created. For instance, characters such as Kingsley Shacklebolt, a member of the Order of the Phoenix and eventual Minister for Magic, bring a rich layer of diversity to the series. He is a highly respected and well-regarded character with significant background in the wizarding world.

Other Minorities Featured in the Series

Angelina Johnson, another prominent character from Cursed Child, is a talented Quidditch player, known for her skills as a Chaser. This character adds another layer of diversity and strength to the series. In addition, there is Lee Jordan, a funny and indispensable member of the Gryffindor team, who also exemplifies a different kind of Slytherin, showcasing a range of traits not typically associated with that house.

Moreover, the series features Blaise Zabini, a handsome and aloof Slytherin who, despite fitting the usual profile of a Slytherin, brings a unique perspective to the story. Additionally, there are Asian origin students, such as Cho Chang, who becomes a prominent character in the series, and characters like Cho’s friends, who bring their own cultural backgrounds and perspectives to the series.

Conclusion

While debates about the diversity in the Harry Potter series will likely continue, it is evident that the series already features a range of minority characters that contribute to its richness and depth. J.K. Rowling has made genuine efforts to include minoritised characters, each with their own unique background and personality. Whether these additions are perceived as retroactive or not, they serve to enrich the world of the Harry Potter series and demonstrate Rowling’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive fantasy world.

Keywords: Harry Potter diversity, J.K. Rowling, character diversity in literature