Hogwart's Margin Notes

The press is buzzing about JK Rowling's recent revelation that high profile character Albus Dumbledore is homosexual. While this is never stated or even strongly implied in the book, Rowling insists that this sexual orientation was always the intention for his character.

From glancing at the coverage of this 'out of the closet' media moment, both CNN and BBC quote the Rowling's many supporters over this character choice. It is no suprise that these major news outlets do not coverage the many negative reactions, except for to say “Not everyone likes her work, Rowling said, likely referring to Christian groups that have alleged the books promote witchcraft.” While casually discounting a Christian standpoint, journalists sensationalize Rowling's choice to expose new fundamental elements of her characters.

Although Rowling created Harry Potter and the characters who compose it, is the real Dumbledore gay? This might seem like an odd question, but my implication is merely this: Are books a world unto themselves or are marginal notes legitimate additions to the already completed literature? In other words, from the Harry Potter series there is no way of knowing Dumbledore's orientation. People could make guesses, but there is not even an undeniable hint that he might be homosexual. If the reader is left to his own conclusion, then can we take Rowling's statement as an appendage to the books or merely another suggestion?

Literature is a form of art. A piece of art is often complete in itself. Some of the world's most beautiful works of art leave the viewer to discover the meaning of the painting for themselves. Just look at the Mona Lisa- generations have been pondering and guessing this mysterious woman's secret. Personally, JK Rowling's 'admission' that Dumbledore is homosexual takes away from an already complete work of art. It seems a cheap ploy for more publicity instead of a revelation that will enrich readers' experience.