History of Magic in the American Continents
written by Wayah Barry
Shamans, medicine men, magical creatures, astronomy, divination. The influence of magic had strong impact on the communities that inhabited the continent pre-Columbus and continues to effect the magic community in America today. About the author: I am Eastern Band Cherokee and grew up hearing myths and stories of my tribe. This is my attempt to creatively tie my research of Native American mythology with the Harry Potter Universe. *This is not meant to offend anyone, it is purely fictional. I will respect the spiritual practices and beliefs of Native American tribes and be as factual as I can.
Last Updated
05/31/21
Chapters
12
Reads
787
Native American Influence on Ilvermorney
Chapter 11
Although Ilvermorny was founded by an Irish witch, Isolt lived in America at a time when colonialism was just beginning in America. She encountered many magical creatures native to America, such as the Hidebehind and Pukwudgie. Pukwudgies are powerful creatures similar to European goblins in appearance, and are expert archers and use poison to hunt. They are also known to be tricksters. Isolt also formed a relationship with a Horned Serpent, since she was a Parseltongue.
The four orignial hosues of Ilvermorny were named after four magical creatures common in Native American legends and well known to the Native American magical community. The four houses therefore, are named Thunderbird, Wampus (a powerful panther-like creature), Horned Serpent, and Pukwudgie.
Two of first students of Ilvermorny were boys from the Wampanog tribe who studied wandworking with Isolt and James. In fact, by 1634, a majority of Ilvermorny's students were Native American children interested in learning more about magic. Keep in mind that these children were there by choice and it was a peaceful community (except for the occasional friendly competition between houses).
To this day the crest containing images of the four native creatures that represent the four houses of Ilvermorny is used in the sorting ceremony. Native American tradition helped build the school, which is still known today as being democratic and not elitist.
"It is sometimes said of the Ilvermorny houses that they represent the whole witch or wizard: the mind is represented by Horned Serpent; the body, Wampus; the heart, Pukwudgie and the soul, Thunderbird. Others say that Horned Serpent favours scholars, Wampus, warriors, Pukwudgie, healers and Thunderbird, adventurers." -a description of the houses from Pottermore
Although Native Americans have faced terrible persecution in America and have suffered the effects of genocide, they are still greatly represented at Ilvermorny. The demographics of America have changed drastically since Isolt and James first opened their doors to the two Wampanog boys whose names have unfortunately been lost in history, but Native American students continue to attend Ilvermorny to study magic and have a strong presence in the magic community in America.
The four orignial hosues of Ilvermorny were named after four magical creatures common in Native American legends and well known to the Native American magical community. The four houses therefore, are named Thunderbird, Wampus (a powerful panther-like creature), Horned Serpent, and Pukwudgie.
Two of first students of Ilvermorny were boys from the Wampanog tribe who studied wandworking with Isolt and James. In fact, by 1634, a majority of Ilvermorny's students were Native American children interested in learning more about magic. Keep in mind that these children were there by choice and it was a peaceful community (except for the occasional friendly competition between houses).
To this day the crest containing images of the four native creatures that represent the four houses of Ilvermorny is used in the sorting ceremony. Native American tradition helped build the school, which is still known today as being democratic and not elitist.
"It is sometimes said of the Ilvermorny houses that they represent the whole witch or wizard: the mind is represented by Horned Serpent; the body, Wampus; the heart, Pukwudgie and the soul, Thunderbird. Others say that Horned Serpent favours scholars, Wampus, warriors, Pukwudgie, healers and Thunderbird, adventurers." -a description of the houses from Pottermore
Although Native Americans have faced terrible persecution in America and have suffered the effects of genocide, they are still greatly represented at Ilvermorny. The demographics of America have changed drastically since Isolt and James first opened their doors to the two Wampanog boys whose names have unfortunately been lost in history, but Native American students continue to attend Ilvermorny to study magic and have a strong presence in the magic community in America.
