Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter Podcast Professor Julian Wamble
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Instead of seeing criticism as an indication of not liking something, Critical Magic Theory invites listeners to explore the things about the characters, plot points, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter broadly that have always given them pause or made them smile without knowing why. It is in this navigation of the positive and the negative aspects of a world that we find the true magic.
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Draco Malfoy: Misunderstood, Maligned, or Merely A Malfoy?
Is Draco Malfoy misunderstood or just a product of his environment? Join us for a compelling discussion as we celebrate Draco's birthday and kick off our two-part series dedicated to this enigmatic character. With the insightful Eve Medina from our Patreon community, we unpack Draco's upbringing, his complex relationships with his parents, and the pressures he faces to uphold the Malfoy name. Why is the fandom so invested in his redemption? We explore this and much more in an engaging convers...
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Lucius Malfoy's Path to Power (& Flawless Hair)
Could Lucius Malfoy's impeccable hair be the only redeeming quality of this notorious antagonist from the Harry Potter series? Join us as we peel back the layers of Lucius's character, questioning his loyalties and unveiling the roots of his bitter rivalry with Arthur Weasley. We weave critical thinking with a touch of humor, contrasting Lucius's villainous traits with those of Narcissa. In a world where pureblood status can dictate one's place in society, Lucius Malfoy stands as a complex fi...
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Narcissa Malfoy: The Villain, The Mom, & the Hero?
Can the matriarch of the Malfoy family be seen in a different light? Unravel the complexities of Narcissa Malfoy's character with me, Professor Julian Wamble, as we dissect her life's choices, from the fierce protection of her son to her covert defiance. Our discussion probes the depths of her role as a pureblood within the Malfoy legacy, considering how her actions may reflect on the entire Slytherin house. This character study invites you to question the thin line between victim and a...
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The Best and the Worst of the Weasleys
Embrace the charm and complexity of the Weasley family with Professor Julian Wamble as we traverse the intriguing landscape of family dynamics in the wizarding world. Prepare to engage with the characters you thought you knew, as we assign whimsical superlatives and reveal surprising poll results about the most admired Weasley. From Ginny's triumphs to Percy's pitfalls, this episode promises to reshape your perceptions of what it means to be part of this magical clan. Doubling as a reflection...
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Maybe she's born with "it." Maybe she's Ginny Weasley
Have you ever considered the intricate layers behind Ginny Weasley's character in the Harry Potter series? Join me, Professor Julian Wamble, as we unravel the nuances of this fierce and independent witch. Through a blend of shared traumas and her unique place as the only Weasley daughter, we explore how Ginny's experiences shape her into a formidable force within the story. Her terrifying first-year ordeal in the Chamber of Secrets sets the stage for a journey of resilience and growth, which ...
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Ronald Weasley is NOT Your Coworker
Unlock the hidden layers of loyalty and humor within the Harry Potter series' most underrated character. Joined by Ron Weasley aficionado Dani Alexander, I, Professor Julian Wamble, take you behind the spectacles of everyone's favorite ginger to discover just how his steadfast friendship and quick wit define the core of the beloved trio. We'll unravel the moments that showcase Ron's importance, from his suggestion of leg-breaking dedication to the nuances of his arguments with Hermione, provi...
Customer Reviews
This. OMG.
First off, I adore Professor Wamble. I love how he takes us deeper and makes us think about the characters that we know and love in interesting and complex ways. Harry Potter has been such an integral part of my life since the beginning and remains so (yes, I am *that* millennial), however, I fully acknowledge that there are so many problematic things within this series. Professor Wamble speaks candidly about those aspects that are problematic in meaningful ways that also fully acknowledges the humanity and complexity of the characters. As a therapist who specializes in DBT, the way he challenges us to think dialectically about this work and these characters speaks to my soul.
Loving the pod!
I am so happy to have found this podcast! Prof JW is so engaging. He gives his opinion but also allows space for discussion and debate. He’s brought a lot of new perspectives to me as an adult reading about child(ren) characters. I also really appreciate that he holds the books, and particularly JKR, accountable for the biases therein.
I love it!
I’d seen little snippets of his lectures on social and badly wished I could be a part of them. And now I can!
Such a fun and deeper way to deep dive and rethink a favorite book series. Keep in mind our childhood and our adult views of the characters.