What Are the Archetypal Similarities Between Harry Potter and Frodo Baggins?

Proposal

Richard Barna

Everyone loves an epic heroes’ tale, whether it’s a hobbit, wizard, a Jedi, or just a really nice guy helping an old lady change a flat tire. Most people define heroes as the guy or gal who saves the day, but many fail to recognize the similarities between them. Two of the most famous heroes that have become popular culture icons are Harry Potter and Frodo Baggins. I am a fan of both literary series and I am intrigued to compare them; which is why I’ve chosen, “what are the archetypal similarities between Harry Potter and Frodo Baggins?” as my central question.

 When someone reads fictional novels, it is usually for enjoyment, and sometimes there are a number of similarities to other literary works that authors pull from to form their own works. I believe it is important to be able to identify these similarities between novels and determine the reasons behind their similarities. It is not always a case of copying or plagiarizing another’s work, there are certain roles that characters play in books, called archetypes. An archetype is a typical example of a person or recurrent symbols. I think that my research can help others realize that there is an unconscious aspect of archetypes. By presenting the similarities between Harry and Frodo students can gain a better understanding of how these characters fit into the archetypal mold; and to recognize others. This can aide in other classes, advertising, and recognizing patterns in other multimedia avenues. After such a long time as a fan of professional wrestling, I am able to recognize the traits and actions of a wrestler who is transitioning from ‘good to bad.’ Being aware of consistent traits can be beneficial in personal affairs as well. Knowing the properties of a product you use or enjoy will help you identify similar products. There are characteristics of music, movies and books that appeal to certain people; and knowing them can affect decisions in the future. In a leadership role, imitating the traits and actions of other leaders can increase your skills. Stores use similar layouts and product placement based on exhaustive research, and what has proven effective in the past by predecessors; they follow a model. Determining a major field of study is based on personal interest and that personal preference is shaped by reoccurring similarities in different classes. By comparing the two characters I hope to demonstrate the importance of inference and trying to find deeper meaning by reading beyond the words.

There are some basic, surface ideas and physical attributes between the two characters. Harry and Frodo are both males who have just come of age, 11 and 33 respectively. While both characters have been burdened with a great responsibility, Frodo’s path was a straightforward physical journey. Harry’s task is about self-discovery, and less definitive than the literalness of his literary doppelgänger. Both are aided by friends, strangers, fantasy creatures and look up to older wiser wizards. Both Harry and Frodo have magical artifacts they utilize throughout. There are also weapons that both characters need to accomplish their quests. There is also a central evil that both must combat. Harry and Frodo endure struggles and overcome trials and tribulations to accomplish their goal. Both of their parents died and they lived with relatives, Frodo his uncle, and Harry his Aunt and Uncle.

I do have some opinions on the similarities of the two characters. I believe that parallels between the two extend beyond their physical appearance; and go beyond the surface explanations in the books. Qualities such as morals, thoughts, feelings, and opinions can be explored through comparison and interaction. Although these are fictional characters, they represent characteristics many of us either possess or wish we did. I think that authors rely heavily on life experience including other forms of media such as movies, books, television, and pop culture trends. I do not believe that J.K. Rowling copied the character Harry Potter from J.R.R. Tolkien’s Frodo Baggins. I think that there are inherent traits that archetypes display throughout history. As a fan of both characters I am excited to discover the extent of their similarities.  

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