The Meaning Behind 'Obscurus Books' in ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’

Overview: In the world of Harry Potter, the Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them textbook plays a pivotal role in the magical education of Hogwarts students. But have you ever wondered about the publishing house that brings this invaluable resource to life? Obscurus Books might be more than just a name. This article explores the potential significance of the name and the motivations behind it, combining facts from the novels and theories backed by the lore of the wizarding world.

Understanding the Name 'Obscurus Books'

The name Obscurus Books initially seems ominous, linking it to the terrifying magical phenomena known as Obscurus. However, upon closer inspection, it suggests a different narrative, one deeply rooted in the history and education practices of the wizarding community.

The Origins and Meaning of 'Obscurus'

Obscurus is a phenomenon that appears when a magical person's magic is repressed, leading to a dark and destructive force. This correlation suggests why Harold Tennant, the founder of Obscurus Books, might have chosen a name that brings to mind the very opposite of its original meaning. By naming the publishing house Obscurus Books, it’s possible that Tennant wanted to emphasize the concept of bringing light, knowledge, and understanding to magical students.

The Role of Magical Education

Magical education forms a significant part of the wizarding world. In the Harry Potter series, characters like Albus Dumbledore place immense importance on the study and practice of magic. The Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is not just a textbook but a crucial tool for students to understand and interact with magical creatures, ensuring they are well-prepared to face the challenges of the wizarding world.

Speculation on the Name

So, why might Obscurus Books be such an apt name for a publisher of school textbooks? Here are three potential reasons:

1. Embracing the Past and Present

Before the establishment of the International Confederation of Wizards (ICW) in 1918, there had not been an Obscurus among American wizards for centuries, according to MACUSA (Magical Congress of the United States of America). During this period, the term "Obscurus" likely carried a less menacing tone, closely tied to the idea of a disappointing or inadequate magical education. Over time, as the wizarding world became more regulated and structured, the term could have shifted to represent a less oppressive educational environment.

2. Encouraging Openness and Learning

By naming the publishing house Obscurus Books, Harold Tennant might have intended to encourage students to embrace and explore the full spectrum of magical knowledge, including those aspects of magic that had been repressed or marginalized. This could be seen as a subtle way of promoting a more open and inclusive approach to magical education.

3. Symbolizing the Unification of Knowledge

The use of the term "Obscurus" in the publishing house name might also symbolize the unification of various forms of knowledge, both traditional and modern, in the realm of magical education. By bringing together diverse and sometimes repressed forms of magic, Obscurus Books can be seen as a symbol of this unification and a proactive step towards ensuring that no aspect of magic is lost or forgotten.

Conclusion

While the name Obscurus Books initially seems daunting, it could be the manifestation of a rich web of intent and history. It embodies the concept of bringing light to the dark, consolidating knowledge, and promoting an inclusive form of magical education. Understanding the underlying meaning of this name provides a deeper appreciation for the complexity and depth of the world built by the author, J.K. Rowling, and opens up further avenues for discussion about the importance of magical education in the wizarding world.