The Story of Good vs. Evil

Millions of people today are scooping up copies of J.K. Rowling’s latest book, “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.”

Others, however, are hanging back, asking themselves if these make-believe tales of witches and sorcerers are appropriate reading for Christians. Not all make-believe is harmless, and parents are asking how they can discern between what is playful and what is harmful.

The question is well-taken. It is the role of parents, godparents and other elders to pass on to children a perspective on how the universe works--a world view, so to speak. Without an adequate world view, life is random and meaningless.

In a meaningless world devoid of hope, one can package evil as a legitimate option or pass off evil beings as benign imaginary creatures. In a wholesome make-believe world, on the other hand, imagination and allegory are literary devices that enhance meaning or help us relate to the story. In themselves, the devices are neutral. The problem comes when lines are blurred between make-believe and real, or when the reader gives credence to the story beyond what it deserves. This applies not only to stories but also to board games, video games and movies.

As a child, I loved Superman’s ability to fly, his X-ray eyes, his weakness to kryptonite. I never gave a second thought to what made his special powers possible. I never even asked how Santa Claus put his finger to his nose, gave a nod and up the chimney arose. I was surprised to learn recently that Superman’s costume now comes with a caution that the cape does not make one able to fly. Should we label fireplaces “Not an Exit”? The discernment of young children varies, and at some stages confusion is obviously possible. It may be necessary for adults to remind children when it’s only make-believe.

What then is the compelling attraction of fantasy to children and adults of all ages? Why is this literary genre producing runaway bestsellers? In make-believe, reality has been altered so that we can explore a new realm with its own fascinations, possibilities and surprising outcomes. J.K. Rowling has mastered that technique artfully, framing her world in a picturesque English countryside dotted with magical places, charming creatures and the legendary Hogwart’s boarding school. In doing so, she speaks not only of this world and the world to come (Earth and heaven) but a third, middle world where spirits dwell and where good and evil are not just abstractions but act out a battle for humankind’s destiny.

Are we exploring a make-believe world, an allegory of our own earthly journey or something else? The reader must decide, and that decision will probably be based on the world view that has been passed down to him or her.

Society’s survival depends on a sound world view that preserves the preciousness of human life. Because of that, I contend all world views are not equal, despite the popular pluralism of our time. Nihilism is a dangerous alternative and the source of much of society’s recent disturbing acts and deep grief.

The bottom line for me is this: Acceptable stories support a clear distinction between good and evil. I shy from those that blur the two or those that ascribe to other deities only those qualities that rightfully belong to God. I do not recommend stories that legitimize power from the dark side, even when it masquerades as aiding a good purpose, for this is a form of deception. Those that make light of evil, such as casting hexes as a practical joke, model an accommodation with evil that I cannot endorse. Evil should never be glamorized.

Here’s a sampler that may help: A story of green eggs and ham is a delight. Enjoy! A make-believe story of a witch who lives in a gingerbread house and eats boys and girls is a fright. Beware! An allegory of children in a magical world of good and evil is a concern. Discern! A story in which an evil force is the sole mastermind of the universe and demands total allegiance under penalty of death is a potentially harmful nightmare. Avoid!

On Faith is a forum for Orange County clergy and others to offer their views on religious topics of general interest. Submissions, which will be published at the discretion of The Times and are subject to editing, should be delivered to Orange County religion page editor Deanne Brandon.