Did J.R.R. Tolkien Ever Read the Harry Potter Series?

Did J.R.R. Tolkien ever read the Harry Potter series? The answer, for any fact-checker reading this, is an unambiguous no. However, let’s explore the fascinating overlap between these two literary giants and the sad reality of their lives.

The Times They Were Different

J.R.R. Tolkien, cherished for his beloved works such as The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, lived from 1892 to 1973. On the other hand, J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, was born in 1965. Thus, if we consider the chronology, Tolkien had already passed away before the first Harry Potter book was even published in 1997. This time gap makes it conclusively impossible for Tolkien to have read any part of the Harry Potter series.

Emerging Fascination: Did Rowling Ever Read Tolkien?

What about J.K. Rowling? Did she ever read Tolkien's works? The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, J.K. Rowling was heavily influenced by Tolkien. She has mentioned that when she was a young girl, she would spend her summers in the Avon Gorge, which is where she) grew up. Even as a child, she would immerse herself in Tolkien's books, recognizing the profound influence they had on her own literary creativity. She has acknowledged that Tolkien provided a model for her writing, particularly in the realm of creating rich, fantastical worlds.

Legacy and Influence

Both Tolkien and Rowling share a common thematic characteristic: the creation of detailed, immersive worlds where their characters can navigate complex plots filled with magic, danger, and heroism. While Tolkien's Middle-earth is known for its epic battles and mythological underpinnings, Rowling's wizarding world is characterized by its intricate bureaucracy, school life, and the subtle interplay of narratives.

Moreover, the structure of the high fantasy genre, with its emphasis on creating a compelling world with its own rules and lore, can be directly traced back to Tolkien. This approach was both a source of inspiration for Rowling and a significant point of divergence. While the Harry Potter series delved into the modern world's systems—from the educational to the bureaucratic—Tolkien's works were more rooted in ancient, mythological tales.

Conclusion

The inability of J.R.R. Tolkien to read the Harry Potter series is a poignant testament to the temporal and historical divides between these two literary giants. However, the enduring influence of Tolkien on subsequent fantasy authors, including J.K. Rowling, highlights the cyclical nature of literary influence and the power of great storytelling. Reading about Tolkien in the context of the Harry Potter series also enriches our understanding of the complexities and continuities in the evolution of the fantasy genre.