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PODCAST

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter Podcast

Prof. Julian Wamble

Instead of seeing criticism as an indication of not liking something, Professor Julian Wamble invites listeners of Critical Magic Theory to explore the things about the characters, plot points, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter broadly that have always given them pause or made them smile without knowing why. It is in this navigation of the positive and the negative aspects of a world that we find true magic.

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All Episodes

71:49

Lord Voldemort: More Diva than Dark Lord

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/03/19

Is this an episode of Real Housewives of the Wizarding World? No, just an episode about ole Voldy V- the ultimate diva. From his obsession with power to his need for an audience at every major moment, we unpack how his insecurities, delusions, and over-the-top theatrics make him one of the most absurd villains in fiction. We revisit the iconic graveyard scene, where Voldemort finally gets his body back—only to immediately fumble his own victory. We also break down whether he was actually a good

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49:58

Prof Responds: The Power, The Pettiness, and The Pretty

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/03/12

In this lively and deeply engaging episode of Critical Magic Theory, Professor Julian Wamble responds to the fiery post-episode discussion about Tom Riddle. From dissecting the many hilarious and shady nicknames the CMT community bestowed upon Voldemort to unpacking the complexities of his insecurities, Julian dives deep into what makes Tom Riddle tick. Topics range from the imposter syndrome and theatrics that defined Voldemort’s rise to power, to his surprising nostalgia for Hogwarts, and even the

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75:40

[Tom] Riddle Me this: The origin story of a pick me

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/03/06

In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we begin our deep dive into the origins of Lord Voldemort by unpacking the complexities of Tom Riddle Jr. Professor Julian Wamble explores what made young Tom tick—his ambitions, insecurities, and relentless desire to prove himself in the Wizarding World. Was he a textbook Slytherin, or did his ego ultimately undermine his ambitions? Is he a victim of his upbringing, or was his villainy inevitable? From his desperate need for external validation to his

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29:43

PROF RESPONDS 2- PUREBLOOD SHOWDOWN

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/02/26

With chaos, controversy, and critical insight, Professor Julian Wamble dives into the passionate post-episode discussion following the Pure-Blood Showdown episode. With the fandom in an uproar over Narcissa Malfoy being crowned Best Parent, Julian unpacks the arguments from Patreon listeners, exploring the biases and dynamics at play in how fans judge “good” and “bad” parenting in the Wizarding World. The conversation extends to the contentious Worst Son designation for Barty Crouch Jr., with Julian

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78:49

It's a Pureblood Showdown: The Best, The Worst, and...

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/02/19

BUST OUT YOUR YEARBOOKS!! It's time for the best and worst of the Purebloods! In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we wrap up our epic 14-month journey through the world of pure bloods. We explore what it truly means to be a pureblood in the Wizarding World—unpacking the social constructs, privileges, and pressures that shape their identities. From the tension between external validation and unapologetic individuality to the insidious nature of pure blood supremacy, we dive deep into how these

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40:11

Prof Responds: LAVENDER BROWN

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/02/12

In this special mini-episode of Critical Magic Theory, Professor Julian Wamble introduces a new segment: Prof Responds. This segment is designed to continue the discussion from the Patreon post-episode chat, allowing deeper engagement with listeners’ comments and insights. The focus of this episode is Lavender Brown, exploring how race and gender intersect in the portrayal of her character. Professor Wamble examines the controversy surrounding Lavender’s race change in the Harry Potter films and the

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79:46

Lavender Brown: Messy? Maligned? or Misunderstood?

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/02/05

Through a mix of critical analysis, and a healthy dose of chaos, Professor Wamble and Cassie (one of the Patreon “chronic overthinkers,”) reconsider Lavender Brown’s role in the series, her legacy, and what she can teach us about gendered expectations and internalized misogyny. They deep dive deep into the misunderstood and often maligned character of Lavender Brown asking- Why has the Harry Potter fandom been so hard on her? Is she truly as clingy and annoying as we’ve been conditioned to believe,

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78:49

Merope Gaunt and the space between victimhood & villainy

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/01/22

TW: DV and SA are discussed in this episode. Can a villain also be a victim? Embark on a journey through the layered narrative of Merope Gaunt, the enigmatic mother of Voldemort, as we mark one year of Critical Magic Theory. Merope's contentious life story, shaped by a web of abuse and desperation, invites a deeper examination of the societal and family dynamics that molded her path. In this episode, we scrutinize Merope's struggle for empowerment against the backdrop of a turbulent family li...

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55:14

Poverty, Power, and the Paradox of the Gaunts

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2025/01/08

Join us as we unpack the paradoxical realities of the Gaunt family in the Harry Potter universe. Discover how Marvolo and Morfin Gaunt's fierce dedication to their bloodline leads to a toxic supremacy that survives despite their poverty and lack of societal advantages. This episode promises to uncover the complex dynamics that set the stage for Merope Gaunt's tragic story, which we will explore in the next episode.In our exploration, we contrast the Gaunts with other notable families like the...

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66:48

Luna Lovegood's Path to Authenticity, Courage, and...

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/12/11

What if you could navigate life with unapologetic authenticity? Discover how Luna Lovegood exemplifies this bold approach, as we explore her fascinating character from the Harry Potter series. In this latest episode, you'll gain insights into Luna's remarkable ability to be herself, challenging societal norms and inspiring self-acceptance. We delve into Luna's placement in Ravenclaw House and speculate on her blood status while reflecting on her role as a standout character introduced l...

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69:08

Cedric Diggory: Not a Hero, but a Champion

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/11/27

Our latest episode of Critical Magic Theory dives headlong into the enigmatic nature of Cedric Diggory from the Harry Potter series. Join us for an illuminating conversation as we dissect Cedric's brief but impactful presence and his embodiment of Hufflepuff values such as fairness, loyalty, and integrity. We explore Cedric's actions during the Triwizard Tournament, pondering whether his death was heroically tragic or emblematic of systemic failures that led to his downfall. Cedric's life as ...

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64:06

The Ministers’ Manipulative Ministrations

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/11/13

What if the key to understanding the wizarding world's political chaos lies in the flawed leadership of Cornelius Fudge and Rufus Scrimgeour? This episode of Critical Magic Theory uncovers how these Ministers of Magic, potentially products of a society favoring pureblood supremacy, navigated a complex landscape riddled with biases. By examining their decisions and interactions we ponder whether these issues stem from the individuals or the institution they represent. Through the lens of Harry...

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83:22

The Quiet Complexity and Courage of Neville Longbottom

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/10/30

What if Neville Longbottom had been the chosen one instead of Harry Potter? Join Professor Julian Wamble on Critical Magic Theory as we explore this intriguing thought and unravel Neville's heroic journey in the wizarding world. We'll dive into his evolution from a timid boy into a courageous figure, challenging traditional notions of valor and redefining what it means to be a Gryffindor. Our conversation reaffirms the importance of diverse expressions of bravery in the wizarding world and hi...

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70:01

The Duplicity of Barty Crouch Jr: Radicalized Victim...

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/10/16

What if the key to understanding one of the Harry Potter series’ most enigmatic figures lies in examining the fragile line between victimhood and villainy? On this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we unravel the complexities of Bartemius Crouch Jr., alongside Professor Charlie Hunt, a political scientist and co-host of the podcast Scandalized. We dissect Barty Jr.'s tumultuous journey, from the oppressive shadow of his authoritative father to his chilling transformation into a devoted Death ...

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73:20

The Mind Games and Mayhem of Barty Crouch, Sr.

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/10/02

What if the very officials tasked with protecting the wizarding world were its greatest threats? Join us on this episode of Critical Magic Theory as we dissect the morally ambiguous and controversial actions of Barty Crouch Sr., a high-ranking Ministry official whose decisions have left indelible marks on the Harry Potter series. We’ll scrutinize his ruthless choices, like imprisoning Sirius Black without a trial, while also reflecting on his deeply flawed family dynamics and the shocking mom...

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69:00

The Chaotic Neutrality of Horace Slughorn

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/09/18

Does Horace Slughorn's neutrality make him a hero or a coward? Join us on Critical Magic Theory as we dissect this enigmatic Potions Master from the Harry Potter series, exploring his ambiguous moral compass. Discover the depths of Slughorn's relationship with Tom Riddle, a connection that becomes a mirror reflecting his own darker ambitions. Our discussion highlights his opportunistic nature and the internal struggle he faces when confronted by Riddle—a student who embodies Slughorn's worst ...

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69:38

James Potter: Heroic Gryffindor? Privileged Bully?

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/09/04

Curious about how a childhood bully turns into a heroic figure? Join us on Critical Magic Theory as we dismantle the layers of James Potter's character from the Harry Potter series. What makes James Potter both admirable and flawed? We analyze his confrontation with Voldemort, his loyalty to friends like Sirius Black, and the ultimate betrayal by Peter Pettigrew. Through listener surveys, we dissect his transformation from a young bully to a man who bravely stands against evil. Is he a hero, ...

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92:06

The Seriously Tragic Tale of Sirius Black

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/07/31

In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we challenge the widely held perceptions of Sirius Black, diving into the depths of his character with our thoughtful Patreon contributor, Eric. Join us for a riveting exploration as we dissect some of Sirius's defining moments, drawing comparisons with other iconic Gryffindors and pure-blood characters. Discover how Sirius's blend of loyalty, recklessness, and bravery sets him apart, while also questioning whether his rebellion against the Black fami...

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74:02

Andromeda and Regulus: Pureblood Rebels with a Cause?

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/07/17

Can the enigmatic lives of Andromeda Tonks and Regulus Black offer us lessons in courage and defiance against pureblood supremacy? Join us on this episode of Critical Magic Theory as Professor Julian Wamble navigates the sparse yet captivating details about these two lesser-known Harry Potter characters. We challenge the conventional views on Regulus's heroic actions and Andromeda's radical departure from her family's toxic ideologies, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their motiv...

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80:50

The Bellatrix Paradox: "Love?" Loyalty, and Lunacy

Critical Magic Theory: An Analytical Harry Potter... ·

2024/07/03

Is Bellatrix Lestrange driven by true love for Voldemort, or is it something darker? Join me, Professor Julian Wamble, on Critical Magic Theory as we dissect the enigmatic and terrifying loyalty of one of the wizarding world's most notorious villains. We'll untangle the web of motivations behind Bellatrix's actions, questioning whether her devotion is fueled by love, a fascination with power, or simply a desire to uphold the ideals Voldemort represents. By comparing her to other pureblood wom...

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73 results

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