Welcome to Harry Potter Theory. Today we're discussing 10 iconic pieces of literature that DIRECTLY inspired the Harry Potter story. These books are the primary influences and in some instances motivators that prompted JK Rowling to create the vast Wizarding World we've all come to know so well. Some of them are quite obvious, but others are remarkably subtle.

I'll also add that Rowling herself has given acknowledgement to MOST of the influences featured on this list, however I will mention that there are a few which are simply analogues too similar to ignore- books published PRIOR to Harry Potter that contain elements which appear all too familiar.

Let's get in to it.

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