Pamela Smith

Pamela Smith, on their experience in the English Honors Program:

Although I was nervous, I'm so glad I applied and got out of my comfort zone! I started this thinking I'd never be able to reach the page minimum, but ended up writing much more. I learned that I can do so much more than I thought as long as I take the time to push myself to do it and am so proud of what I've accomplished!

Abstract: Is there Christianity in fantasy? Are children at risk of being negatively influenced? In terms of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, there has been debate on this issue, resulting in challenges and a successful book ban. The real question is, does the series have a Christian undertone or is it satanic in nature? Looking at the role fantasy plays in society, from its origins to its role in the series, this project focuses on three core Christian morals (the concepts of choice, humility, and sacrifice) that are shown within the series, specifically in my primary sources Goblet of Fire and Order of the Phoenix, as opposed to the normally addressed Sorcerer's Stone and Deathly Hallows. This provides a fresh perspective to an already much talked about subject while simultaneously arguing that Christianity and fantasy do not have to be mutually exclusive and can coexist with each other.

Pamela Smith is an English major at FAU and aspiring to become a developmental editor and author. An avid reader, she found a love of English early on and has kept that passion alive. She is currently in the process of writing her first book, has a second planned, and has written multiple short stories and poems.