Session Information
HPEF - Prophecy 2007 Conference
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The Horcrux of the Matter: External Souls in Folk Tales, and their Reflections in the Harry Potter Novels
Track : August 4, 2007
Program Code: 380
Date: Saturday, August 4, 2007
Time: 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM  EST
Location: Lower Concourse Grand Ballroom West
PANELIST (S):   Click the plus sign to see more detailed information about each speaker.
Description
This panel examines "Pros and Cons" of Horcruxes: Throughout folklore, the evilest witches cannot be killed because their hearts and magical powers are hidden far away, under guard. The hero must battle all sorts of traps and guardians in order to reach the source of the evil person's power. While this protection of one's soul seems practical on the surface, dangers abound. A magical focus augments one's power, but foci often shatter or betray one at a critical moment. Characters likewise can place part of their souls into animals—perilous if the animal or person dies during the connection. Mythology and folklore echoes this theme, as people's souls are often trapped in objects, from slaves of magic mirrors to slaves of lamps. As we explore these legends, the audience is encouraged to share folktales, myths, and fantasy that feature elements similar to Horcruxes or the nature and ramifications of soul-splitting.