Heritage of Celtic myths, legends, traditions and rituals in Harry Potter books

Abstract

The bachelor work deals with Celtic myths, legends, traditions and rituals, analyzes their main aspects and compares them with J.K.Rowlings books about Harry Potter. The aim of the work is to prove the linkage between Celtic tradition and Rowling's books, point out their main interesting aspects and show their resemblance. The work starts with the introduction of basic terminology of myth, legend and magic. The second chapter analyzes characters from Harry Potter books, as well as animals, creatures and supernatural beings of the wizarding world, and compares them with those that occur in Celtic myths and legends. Third chapter deals with rituals, their importance and function in Celtic society, as well as in Rowling's books. The work ends with analysis of symbolism that is included in Harry Potter stories and contrasts it finds its roots in Celtic mythology.