If you’ve ever wondered how a Harry Potter course can be a masterclass in teaching white supremacy, systemic oppression, and feminist critique—you’re gonna love this episode. We’re joined by Professor Julian Womble, who uses the Wizarding World to help his students explore the messy intersections of identity, power, and representation. We dig into fanfiction as reclamation, Hermione’s white savior complex, Lavender Brown’s erasure, and how to love problematic art without ignoring its dangers. Come for the Draco redemption arc, stay for the discussion on teaching critical consciousness through pop culture.

Prof. Julian Wamble (Womble), he/him, is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at George Washington University, where he teaches a popular class called Harry Potter & the Politics of Social Identity. He’s also the host of Critical Magic Theory podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Teaching white supremacy using Harry Potter
Hermione’s white saviorism and gendered politics
Fanfiction as a tool for social change
The erasure and racism around Lavender Brown
The problem with redemption arcs only for male characters
Draco Malfoy as a projection for reform
Why separating art from artist is dangerous
Creating guides for conscientious readers
How fanfiction rewrites justice and inclusivity

Fanfic etiquette:

Fanfic is free; never buy or sell to protect the space and observe copyright and IP laws
Observe the authors rules regarding sharing and personal binding
We don’t rate or review fanfic; it’s a gift. If you don’t like a particular one simply DNF (do not finish) and move on
Always, always leave a kudos or comment to show appreciation for the authors effort
Don’t be an asshole.

Resources mentioned:

“James” by Percival Everett
Let the Dark In by SenLinYu
The Disappearances of Draco Malfoy by speechwriter
Manacled by SenLinYu is no longer available
Bloody, Slutty, and Pathetic by WhatMurdah
Save Me Again by wolfstarlover20 (all queer fic Taina read during Pride month)

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Harry Potter, systemic oppression, and the JK Rowling problem