Extra Credit Blog Post

2. Write a response to one of the critical accusations that has been made against Rowling for certain choices she made, such as those relating to gender, ethnicity, sexuality and sexual orientation, or religion. For example, some argue (in certain cases, vehemently and angrily) that Hermione is the true hero, not Harry. Other pieces argue Rowling’s (and/or the films’) portrayal of Cho is based on unfair Asian stereotypes. There has also been much commentary about Dumbledore’s sexual orientation. The list is extensive, and we have posted a couple of articles about some of these, though, by all means, if you know of one we haven’t posted, please share. Choose one particular piece, not just a general topic. Do you agree with the piece you chose? Disagree? Something in between? Why? Be thoughtful, analytical, detailed, and specific.

A topic that has caused much uproar in the Harry Potter world is the sexual orientation of Albus Dumbledore. Although it is not specifically addressed in the books themselves, J.K. Rowling has made it very clear that Dumbledore is in fact gay. Some fans are thrilled, however, per usual of this specific topic, many are very upset and disappointed. There have been “fans” (that is what they call themselves at least) that have stopped following the series due to Dumbledore’s sexual orientation.

If you ask me, I find this to be insane. First of all, if you are a true fan of the series, the sexual orientation of a character, big or small, should not be a reason to change that. No matter if you learn of this orientation before you read, during your time reading, or after reading- it should not matter!

Homosexuality is a very controversial topic that gets much attention in this day in age. It is an up and coming norm- whether everyone agrees with it or not. So, why would an amazing author not implement it, if she is for it, in one of the most popular and well-written series of time?! I think it was a phenomenal idea to implement the idea of homosexuality into the series in some way. Not only is it implemented, but also it is implemented through of one of the most powerful, loved, selfless, amazing characters in the series- being Dumbledore!

An interesting thing that Heather pointed out to me was a tweet from JKR herself. A reader had verbalized that she didn’t really “see” Dumbledore as gay. Rowling responded, with the most awesome eight-word answer that was a total shut down… “Maybe because gay people look just like… people?” She didn’t have to get nasty, use any harsh language, or hurtful words. She instead makes it very sweet and simple, by stating that gay people look just like anyone else. This is huge and I have so much respect for her in this specific regard.

You can see the actual tweet here: http://hellogiggles.com/jk-rowling-just-schooled-twitter-lbgt-equality-dumbledore/.