The "Alohomora" of Latin
"Harry Potter and the Linguistic The Innovator" focuses on the widespread use of Latin in the Harry Potter Films. Though other languages were infused within Rowling's text, Latin plays a huge role as the basis of the spells, names, and species within the novel series. Harry's precious prize from the sixth film "Felix Felicis" for example, originates from the latin word "felix" meaning lucky, fortunate, or happy.
J.K. Rowling weaves ancient culture, Latin, and literary techniques such as assonance and alliteration into her books to fabricate components of her writings as simple as the name "Severus" (alluding to the Severan Dynasty of Rome). The use of this dead language which is generally unknown by the public makes her world appear more realistic; the language of topic indeed exists but remains hidden through its lack of use in modern society – much like the magical world remains hidden from Muggles sworld in Harry Potter.
Rowling's use of Latin only fortifys the realm she creates for her readers. Her generous use of allusions to Latin/Greek Mythology, history, culture, and especially language add an undeniable magic to the sort already ever-present in her books. The fact that there's more to every little detail than meets the eye is mystifying. As an avid enthusiast of Harry Potter, re-reading the series after learning a bit of Latin was eye-opening. The novel became twice as interesting (if that's even imaginable) with the newly gained background knowledge of Rowling's creations. Her use of Latin, the supposed dead language, brought the book to life for me.
The Harry Potter series has become a trademark of popular readings across the nation. Do you believe that any of the books' success is based on Rowling's use of the Latin Language? If so, how much? If you were in her position, how would you have approached the topic of language for such a story?
Pulford, A. (2011, July 13th) Harry Potter and the Linguistic Inovator
. OxfordWord. Retrieved February 26, 2012. [http://blog.oxforddictionaries.com/2011/07/harry-potter-linguistic-innovator/]
I do agree Latin is used in Harry Potter, but I also do disagree that Latin is a language that is considered "alive." Although we use it as roots in everyday language, we don't use it exactly how it is. For example, you wouldn't hear someone at a gas station or mall, saying "Erismus.."
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