The Mysterious Choir Song in Harry Potter: Unraveling the Magic
Many fans of the Harry Potter series might have wondered about the choir's song mentioned in the books and movies. The song in question, which appears in a scene where a choir of minor characters gathers to sing, is actually a famous excerpt from Shakespeare's Macbeth.
Shakespeare's Influence in Harry Potter
It is well-known that J.K. Rowling was a huge admirer of William Shakespeare. Her works often draw inspiration from his plays, and it's not surprising that she chose to include a reference to one of Shakespeare's most renowned scenes in her magical universe. The choir's song, 'Double double toil and trouble,' is taken from Macbeth, Act IV, Scene I. This particular scene, known as the Witches' Chant, plays a crucial role in the play and adds a layer of mystery and magic to the narrative.
The Text of the Witches' Song
The song goes:
Double double toil and trouble
Fire burn and caldron bubble.
Fillet of a fenny snake
In the caldron boil and bake.
Eye of newt and toe of frog
Wool of bat and tongue of dog
Adders' fork and blind-worms sting
Lizards' leg and howlets' wing
For a charm of powerful trouble
Like a hell-broth boil and bubble.Double double toil and trouble
Fire burn and caldron bubble.
Cool it with a baboon's blood
Then the charm is firm and good.
The repetition of the phrase 'Double double toil and trouble' adds a rhythmic and mystical quality to the chant, enhancing its spell-like nature.
The Significance in the Story
In Macbeth, the witches' chant is a powerful incantation that serves as one of the play's most memorable and iconic scenes. It is used to create a sense of foreboding and supernatural intrigue, driving the story forward and setting the tone for the dark and tumultuous events that follow. In the Harry Potter series, the inclusion of this song in a minor scene serves to add a touch of Shakespearean elegance and depth to the story, acknowledging J.K. Rowling's profound literary influences.
Conclusion
The choir's song in Harry Potter is not just a simple musical aggregation but a deliberate literary choice that pays homage to Shakespeare's timeless work. This inclusion not only adds to the richness of the narrative but also serves as a delightful Easter egg for Shakespeare enthusiasts and Harry Potter fans alike. By integrating this famous chant, J.K. Rowling has crafted a Harry Potter-Shakespeare crossover that transcends boundaries and celebrates the magic of literature.
Keywords: Harry Potter choir, Shakespeare songs, Macbeth witches' song