Harry Potter and the Controversy in Africa

Harry Potter and the Controversy in AfricaHarry Potter is one of the world's most popular books. But where is Africa's version of Hogwarts, and why does this mean criticism in Africa?

by Francois Jansen

20-02-2024 21:29

in Culture

Daniel Radcliffe. Image via Twitter @ScreenRant

Harry Potter is one of the world's most popular books.

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The series captivated millions of readers, starting with the Philosopher's Stone in 1997. JK Rowling is one of the world's richest authors thanks to its success.

Unfortunately, the series is also controversial at times.

A Wizarding World addition brought Harry Potter and the Controversy in Africa.

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Here's how the series writer drew criticism for creating Africa's Hogwarts.

Harry Potter and the Controversy in Africa Hogwarts is the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, according to the series.

Readers might know that it's not the only one, joining schools like Beauxbeatons located across the world.

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What about Africa's Wizarding School?

The Wizarding World answers this question.

Uagadou, found in Uganda.

There are also other African schools, according to the Wizarding World. Why is this bad? Uganda links to many superstitions about witches, and often real-life witch hunts.

Harry Potter: Uagadou Wizarding School Uganda might have seemed a good place for Africa's Wizarding School.

Unfortunately, this is also a place where superstition about witches are very real. Considered part of everyday life, many innocent people have been accused of witchcraft - and harmed or killed.

JK Rowling drew reader critique for putting Uagadou Wizarding School in Uganda.

ALSO READ: Witchcraft in South Africa: Is gogo bewitched or ill?

Many readers feel that she simply shouldn't have done it.

JK Rowling and other controversies Rowling has also drawn previous criticism for her comments about trans-women.

Harry Potter has also been under the spotlight for promoting witchcraft', according to some religious groups who are against it.

Has she gone too far?

Tell us your thoughts Tell us your thoughts. Should Africa's Wizarding School be anywhere else? Let us know what you think with an email to info@thesouthafrican.com.

READ MORE ARTICLES BY FRANCOIS JANSEN (ALEX J COYNE)

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