The Christian "magic" controversy

[robbedvoter]

2) The Christian 'Magic' Controversy: The few stories in the popular press and broadcast media that do not focus on the Cinderella story are usually about the 'magic' controversy. Several Christian groups and individuals have branded the Harry Potter books as satanic and gateways to the occult because of their magical milieu. This wrong- headed interpretation, almost 180 degrees off, remains an albatross around Ms. Rowling's neck. The thought that she is writing edifying Christian fiction is about as believable to most as the possibility that Osama bin Laden has been horribly misrepresented and is actually a Baptist minister living in Cherryville, North Carolina.
http://www.ev90481.dial.pipex.com/harry_potter_granger.htm


When the first movie came out - about the same time as Lord of the Rings, I was talking with another mother about kids movies. She was enthusiastic about this extraordinary upcoming event. I was totally ignorant of both so I innocently asked: "Harry Potter?"
Her face went literally white. It took her a moment to recollect, then she finally blurted: "I meant LOTR". I know the family is devout cathilics and the exchange woke my interest into why one is good, one is bad. (both use pagan myth - wizards trolls and elves - but the "bad" one is about a school, while the "good" one is about countless wars.
Best explanation I got here: LOTR takes place BEFORE their mythology - therefore they see no conflict (I bet them wars are a plus too).
Anyway, I thought it's a rich conversation theme, have at it.