Why Americans Are Not Central in the Harry Potter Universe

While J.K. Rowling's magical universe is filled with elaborate details and diverse characters, one question often lingers among fans: why aren't Americans more prominently featured in the Harry Potter series?

Cultural Focus

The primary setting of the Harry Potter series, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is in Scotland and part of the British magical world. Hogwarts is a reflection of British educational institutions and societal norms, where themes such as class prejudice and identity are explored. The extensive use of British folklore and historical context further cements the cultural focus on the United Kingdom. This choice is not arbitrary but a deliberate narrative strategy to immerse readers in a world that feels authentically British.

World-Building

Rowling's world-building is intricate and detailed. While she hints at the existence of wizarding communities in other countries, the depth of the British wizarding world is unparalleled. By focusing on the British magic community, Rowling can provide a rich and comprehensive narrative. The themes, characters, and societal structures in the British magic world are more thoroughly developed, allowing for a richer storyline and more in-depth exploration.

Historical Context

The series is a reflection of a specific time and place, and the British setting serves as a grounding factor. The historical context of the British Empire, the monarchy, and the societal norms of 1990s Britain are woven into the fabric of the story. The absence of American characters aligns with this historical and cultural grounding, ensuring that the narrative remains true to its British roots.

The Expansion of the Wizarding World

The Fantastic Beasts film series introduces more diverse settings, including the United States. One of the notable additions is the American magical school, Ilvermorny. This school, along with the Magical Congress of the United States of America (MACUSA) and the Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, provides a glimpse into the American wizarding world. Though these additions offer a new context, they are not central to the original Harry Potter narrative.

The Role of Ilvermorny

Ilvermorny, a hidden school of witchcraft and wizardry, is one of the key additions to the Harry Potter universe. It is located in America, representing a unique and distinct magical community. The history of Ilvermorny, including its own house system and its role in the American magical world, is detailed in Pottermore. Newt Scamander, a British wizard who authored Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, visits New York as part of the original film's narrative, connecting the British and American magical worlds.

Collaboration and International Magic

The British and American magical worlds do collaborate in certain instances. For example, the Ministry of Magic in the United Kingdom occasionally works with its European counterparts, as seen in the Goblet of Fire where the Bulgarian Prime Minister attended the Quidditch World Cup alongside the British Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge. Similarly, international wizarding schools like Beauxbatons (France) and Durmstrang (Eastern Europe) are also depicted.

Conclusion

While the American wizarding world is not central to the main narrative of the Harry Potter series, it is an integral part of the extended universe. The introduction of Ilvermorny and MACUSA in the Fantastic Beasts franchise highlights the growing diversity within the magical world. Fans interested in learning more about the American wizarding scene can explore Pottermore for detailed histories and stories.