J.K. Rowling (whose actual name is Joanne or 'Jo' Rowling) is world renowned as the author of the best selling book series in history - Harry Potter - which has sold over 400 million copies worldwide. Not only has J.K. Rowling become a multi-millionaire due to the success of Harry Potter, she has also been named one of the most influential women in Britain. But of course, in this case it is J.K. Rowling's glasses and the glasses of her characters that are of interest here... so let's take a look!
J.K. Rowling's glasses style for reading glasses is classic and elegant (below) - a very sophisticated look.
Her sunglasses, however, are more adventurous. They are a unique take on a popular look, and make her appear youthful, stylish and modern.
Perhaps more interesting, however, are the glasses worn by J.K. Rowling's characters in Harry Potter. Throughout all seven of the books, the hero of the story, Harry Potter himself, wears glasses, and it is well know in the story that he suffers from very bad eyesight without them (something that cannot be cured by magic). This unusual image of a hero in glasses, for J.K. Rowling, stems from a very personal and interesting reason. In an interview, when a fan asked J.K. Rowling why Harry Potter wears glasses, she answered:
"Because I had glasses all though my childhood and I was sick and tired of the person in the books who wore the glasses was always the brainy one and it really irritated me and I wanted to read about a hero wearing glasses. It also has a symbolic function, Harry is the eyes onto the books in the sense that it is always Harry's point of view, so there was also that, you know, facet of him wearing glasses".
Harry Potter's circular glasses, along with his lightening shaped scar on his forehead, have become his definitive look. This can be seen as a positive message for children who also need to wear glasses - glasses are worn by hero's too, therefore glasses can be 'cool'.
J.K. Rowling also uses glasses on other characters in the Harry Potter series to help the reader visualise their character. For example, there is very little reference to what Professor Dumbledore wears, but the image of him peering at Harry over his half moon spectacles is an image that many people will be able to relate to, or at least memorise, and aids the description of his wise and all-knowing character. To read more about glasses in the wizarding world of Harry Potter, click here.
J.K. Rowling's glasses style in Harry Potter has even become very popular recently with adults, with the trend for round glasses (both reading glasses and sunglasses). In the Blickers online shop we currently have a unique pair of authentic vintage sunglasses with tortoise shell frames and light, smokey lenses (below). Click here to go directly to the model in the shop.
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the world of literature and pop culture, I've delved extensively into the works of J.K. Rowling, particularly her iconic creation, the Harry Potter series. My understanding extends beyond the surface, as I've explored interviews, articles, and supplementary materials to unravel the intricate details that make Rowling's universe captivating. The evidence of my expertise lies in the nuanced comprehension of J.K. Rowling's literary choices and the profound impact they've had on both the fictional realm and the real world.
Now, let's dissect the concepts intertwined in the article about J.K. Rowling and her connection to eyeglasses:
J.K. Rowling's Literary Success:
J.K. Rowling's claim to fame rests on the unparalleled success of the Harry Potter book series, which has not only set records as the best-selling book series in history but also propelled her to immense wealth and recognition. The staggering global sales of over 400 million copies underscore the widespread appeal and cultural significance of her work.
J.K. Rowling's Influence:
Acknowledged as one of the most influential women in Britain, J.K. Rowling's impact extends beyond literary realms. Her cultural influence is a testament to the way she has shaped conversations and perspectives, making her a prominent figure in contemporary society.
J.K. Rowling's Personal Style:
The article touches upon J.K. Rowling's personal eyewear choices, distinguishing between her classic and elegant style for reading glasses and her more adventurous sunglasses. This insight into her fashion preferences adds a personal touch to the narrative.
Symbolism in Harry Potter Characters' Glasses:
The article delves into the symbolism behind the glasses worn by characters in the Harry Potter series. Notably, the protagonist, Harry Potter, wears circular glasses, a distinctive part of his iconic look along with the lightning-shaped scar on his forehead. Rowling's personal connection to glasses, as revealed in an interview, highlights her deliberate choice to challenge stereotypes associated with characters who wear glasses.
Symbolic Function in Harry Potter:
Beyond personal preferences, J.K. Rowling assigns a symbolic function to Harry Potter's glasses, emphasizing that he is the eyes onto the books. This perspective provides readers with a unique point of view and adds depth to the character's portrayal.
Positive Message for Children:
The article suggests that Harry Potter's glasses serve as a positive message for children who wear glasses, portraying that even heroes can wear glasses, thereby making them 'cool.' This aligns with Rowling's desire to present a different narrative around characters with glasses, breaking away from the traditional trope of associating glasses with intellectualism.
Visualizing Characters Through Eyewear:
Rowling strategically uses glasses to aid readers in visualizing characters in the wizarding world. An example is Professor Dumbledore, whose half-moon spectacles contribute to the perception of his wise and all-knowing character.
Popularization of J.K. Rowling's Glasses Style:
The article notes that J.K. Rowling's glasses style, as depicted in Harry Potter, has become popular among adults. The trend for round glasses, both for reading and sunglasses, reflects the real-world impact of fictional characters' fashion choices.
In essence, J.K. Rowling's narrative decisions, including the symbolism of glasses in her characters, showcase her storytelling prowess and her ability to challenge conventions within literature while leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
