However, I do think the Vatican, had they bothered to read the books (and I seriously doubt they did) would also have seen the blatant messages of anti-Nazi propaganda evident in Rowling’s writing, as well as a constant message of light over dark, hope over despair, and all those other similar dualities that send out that message that good will triumph over evil.

The series has even helped teachers form an introduction into teaching younger students about the Holocaust – the notion of Death Eaters rounding up and eliminating Muggles having clear parallels. The attire of the Death Eaters as they are portrayed in the films also has strong leanings towards images of the Klu-Klux Clan – again, another important but sometimes difficult historical topic to approach with schoolchildren.

I can’t say that I find the Potter books very original, as they clearly draw on many past children’s stories and as we can see, important historical events. However, they are told in a very engaging manner and have done a lot for the literacy, and interest in new literature, for children otherwise living in an increasingly digital age.

Anybody know how this influences the decisions that come from Rome?

I think that the seventh book helped make it easier for the Vatican to endorse the series, when the battle between good and evil became so starkly present and it became clear that magic can be good or evil and it’s about the choices you make.