The diabolic Undeads: Why Death is Better than Immortality? An Exploration of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone & Dracula

Abstract

Human values play a crucial role in guiding individuals toward actions that contribute positively to societal progress. These values are often revealed in times of fear, adversity, or confusion, and they are foundational to human development. Among the greatest fears that individuals face is the fear of death, a force that instigates change and transformation. For those who seek power, the prospect of losing it is terrifying. However, the desire to overcome these fears, especially through immortality, leads to a loss of human values. Immortality, when sought solely for domination and control, results in a loss of empathy and a descent into cruelty. Fantasy literature, through characters such as Voldemort from Harry Potter and Dracula, exemplifies the destructive consequences of immortality. These figures, though powerful and feared, ultimately pay a heavy price for forsaking their humanity. The portrayal of their monstrous existences serves to underscore the value of death over the perils of an eternal life devoid of meaning and connection. By examining such characters, the paper emphasizes the moral lessons drawn from fantasy literature, shedding light on how human values, cultural heritage, and societal norms influence sustainable development. The analysis connects these themes to broader discussions on fostering inclusive, culturally rich, and sustainable growth.