Contemporary fantastic serpents in the HARRY POTTER series
Contemporary fantastic serpents in the HARRY POTTER series

Summary/Abstract: Serpents and other snake-like creatures, such as the Basilisk, have long been a source of fascination and fear in all the corners of the world. These reptilian creatures, often endowed with magical abilities, have one of the most inconclusive symbolic values: in some cultures, they are the creators of the universe, while in others, they bring about the end of the world. Some communities still worship them for their special medicinal powers, while most modern societies are appalled by their very existence. The fact remains that serpents and serpentine creatures can be found in mythical and folk tales, and their vast symbolism has permeated human imagination since the dawn of time. This article will comment upon the way snakes are depicted in one of the most well-known contemporary fantasy creations, J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, as well as provide a short overview of the history of the Basilisk and the Snake, from the earliest mythologies to modern-day literary and cinematic creations.

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