ipl-logo

Ethics In The Prisoner Of Azkaban

793 Words4 Pages
The final lens of analysis is the ethical lens. Fantasy as a genre is a useful tool to help people learn and understand morality and ethics. The audience can place themselves in the position of Harry and observe fear, the moral dilemmas, and spiritual growth that he does whilst remaining in an emotional safe state (Strimel). The Prisoner of Azkaban implores the audience to evaluate their own conscience and capacity for mercy. The first lapse in Harry’s ethics and morality occurs at the beginning of the film. Harry’s Aunt Marge is visiting the Dursely’s, and during dinner, Marge insults Harry’s parents and his “bad blood”. Harry lashes out and uses magic to turn her into a balloon. Though Marge was not justified in her mocking, Harry is not justified in abusing his magic in this way either. He has not tempered his anger, nor has he found the truth about his parents (Granger 83). This is a catalyzing event in The Prisoner of Azkaban that muddles the line between good and evil. Both Marge and Harry have sinned in different ways, Harry’s spiritual journey from then on is focusing on restorative justice and searching for the truth throughout the film.
Harry learns more about his parents and compassion through Lupin. Professor Lupin is one of the strongest connectors to Harry’s parents, through the dementor and boggart attacks, Harry re-experiences his parent’s death, but Harry experiences “mini-deaths” himself. The cycle of birth and rebirth allow for him to be reflective grow
Open Document