The Deathly Hallows, of course, is the walloping and highly un-fun finale of J.K. Rowling’s seven-part wizarding epic. The one that starts with a heavy-duty quote from Aeschylus; the one where cutesy antics in the Gryffindor common room end and the straight-up slaying of dark wizards begins. For example, Deathly Hallows completely lacks Quidditch, Rowling’s twee but gravity-defying contribution to the imaginary sports world. Even though the Hallows movie adaptation comes in two huge installments, the golden age of cinematic Quidditch is over.
Fortunately, there is hope.
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Yes, the Muggles have taken to Quidditch. In one of the most inspiring sports-world developments since Webb Ellis allegedly picked up the ball at Rugby School in 1824, American college and high school kids have adapted Rowling’s magical game to non-magical life. Founded in 2007, the Intercollegiate Quidditch Association now stages a major (well, okay—elaborate) “World Cup” tournament every year. The game is spreading among the nation’s athletic but unselfconscious youth.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hla26NXLkQQ
While rules that require a broom between the legs at all times and allow for vicious bludger use may make this a physically risky endeavor, I personally hope terrestrial Quidditch enjoys long-term success. After all, the development of a few more sharp-eyed Seekers can only help our economy and national security.
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Let’s go, you Chudley Cannons! Bless the Children, give them triumph now!
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