Harry Potter: A Beginner's Guide | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

Harry Potter: A Beginner's Guide

709
Harry Potter: A Beginner's Guide

Please don't chastise me for my lack of Hogwarts' knowledge. This is a true beginner's guide, or more accurately a first impression. When I say that I'm new to the whole world of magic, I mean I didn't even know how to get onto Platform Nine and Three-Quarters at King's Cross Station. Bear with me. 

I fought this series for long enough, and it's time for me to own up to my fault. I was misled to believe that this was a story simply about wands and spells. Although I take pride in recognizing various incantations now, Harry Potter is so much more than that. I just finished watching all of the movies in quite an embarrassingly short timespan, and I can confidently say I'm a fan. 

Before anyone reading this jumps down my throat, I'm fully aware that die-hard fans will turn their noses up at me for having an opinion on this series without reading the books, but that's the point. I'm a beginner. It's honestly quite remarkable that I've barely managed to scratch the surface, and yet I feel completely overwhelmed by it.

The story is fantastic, and I'll leave it at that. With each movie, I became more invested in the characters' lives. I decided to start the series during finals week which was probably not the best idea. I'm sure this comes as no surprise, but the movies tended to take precedence over any sort of studying. 

I was hooked. I thought about it, talked about it, and even dreamt myself practicing Wingardium Leviosa (a Levitation Charm for the other beginners out there). 

As the final movie ran the ending credits, I felt a sense of loss. What now? 

I fell in love with a series that I convinced myself I was going to hate. So to all the people I looked down upon for liking a story about witches and wizards, I'm sorry. You were right. Harry Potter is a story of magic, but more importantly friendship and courage. Speaking directly to the other beginners, give it a real chance. You will be more than pleasantly surprised when you're finished. 

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

13367
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

5865
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4358
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

3843
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments