When Comparing J.K. Rowling’s novel “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” with other works of literature such as “The Secret Garden” or “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” we can identify influences that may have contributed to the popularity of the Harry Potter series.
All of these three books chronicle the adventures of a lonely child who finds happiness (and challenges!) through magical or imaginary worlds. About his secret world Harry states, "It was a dreamI dreamed a giant called Hagrid came to tell me I was going to a school for wizards. When I open my eyes I'll be at home in my cupboard."(Rowling) Much like the character of Harry, the characters Mary and Dorothy are both orphans (Burnett). All three are unhappy with their life and feel neglected by their caretakers. The transportation into these new “worlds” offers them the opportunity to make friends and gain new understanding of the world (Rowling).
These three children also become heroes in their own right. Before they were also considered weak and had very low self-esteem (Rowling). Throughout the course of the novels they discover their own inner strength to become heroes to those around them. The wisdom gained changes who they are. Hagrid gives a great pearl of wisdom when he states, "Everyone starts at the beginningJust be yerself. I know it's hardBut yeh'll have a great time." (Rowling ). All three characters are also innately good. They have a strong sense of morality and desire to help others.
In conclusion, “The Secret Garden” and “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” all contain elements that influence “Harry Potter and he Philosopher’s Stone.” The idea that a lonely orphan can find a place of happiness remains a key theme throughout literature.
Works Cited:
Baum, F. The wonderful Wizard of Oz. Project Gutenberg , Print.
Burnett, F. The Secret Garden. Project Gutenberg , Print.
Rowling, J.K. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone . Raincoast Books, 2002. Print.
