The Shakespearean Inspiration Behind a Harry Potter Scene

Article Summary

The Hogwarts choir's song, "Double Trouble," in "Harry Potter" creates a link between the depiction of witches in the song and Shakespeare's "Macbeth."

The content suggests that the Wizarding World in "Harry Potter" acknowledges and admires Shakespeare's depiction of witchcraft. The inclusion of this song at Hogwarts implies that Shakespeare's influence extends beyond just the magical realm, hinting at a profound link between the magical and non-magical societies.

William Shakespeare's works have been adapted in some of the most peculiar ways, ranging from modern retellings to The Lion King's interpretation of Hamlet. However, many of Shakespeare's phrases have become so iconic that even direct references feel natural. An instance of this can be seen in Harry Potter's allusion to Macbeth. Although the tragedy revolves around themes of royalty, ambition, and murder, which seem far removed from the world of Harry Potter, there is a common thread: witches. While the portrayal of witchcraft differs greatly, Harry Potter pays homage to the older work in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban through a song performed by the Hogwarts choir.

Under the direction of Filius Flitwick (Warwick Davis), the choir sings "Double Trouble," which incorporates lines from Shakespeare's "Song of the Witches." Interestingly, this is not the only mention of these characters, as they are sometimes referred to as the "Weird Sisters," the same name given to the band that performs at the Yule Ball in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. However, the song holds greater significance as a reference. The connection between "Song of the Witches" and Hogwarts makes sense to the audience, considering Hogwarts is renowned as a school of witchcraft and wizardry. Moreover, there are further layers to this connection. Additionally, within the Wizarding World itself, where knowledge of muggle affairs is typically scarce, there seems to be an appreciation for Shakespeare, recognizing his eerie portrayal of witchcraft despite its divergence from their own reality.

"Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" follows the journey of Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger as they embark on their third year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This year, the trio becomes entangled in a gripping mystery surrounding the escaped prisoner, Sirius Black, whose presence poses a grave danger to the young wizard.

Release Date May 31, 2004Director Alfonso CuarónCast Daniel Radcliffe, Richard Griffiths, Pam Ferris, Fiona Shaw, Harry Melling, Adrian RawlinsRating PGMain Genre Adventure

'Macbeth' and 'Harry Potter' Both Feature Witches

Image via Warner Bros

The connection is evident to anyone familiar with Macbeth. "Song of the Witches" resembles a potion, much like those concocted in Harry Potter, although the students are not compelled to recite the ingredients. The majority of the lyrics sung by the Hogwarts choir consist of verses from the "Song of the Witches," albeit in a different order. "Double Trouble" contains a single line not found in the original poem, as the children chant, "Something wicked this way comes." However, this line also originates from Macbeth and is spoken by the same characters after their incantation. Over time, it has become one of the play's most renowned phrases. While closely associated with witchcraft, it is important to note that the line sprang from Shakespeare's masterpiece, specifically from the three Witches in Macbeth.

There is a clear connection between "Song of the Witches" and the school of witchcraft. However, this small reference signifies a deeper relationship. The witches in Macbeth are a quintessential portrayal of witches, and Harry Potter is part of that legacy. Furthermore, both Macbeth and Hogwarts are set in Scotland, establishing a more subtle connection that contributes to the shared bond between these works of fiction. Nevertheless, the true significance of this reference lies in the plot of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Throughout the story, Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) encounters Professor Trelawney (Emma Thompson), a seer who foretells the escape of Peter Pettigrew (Timothy Spall), mirroring the three witches in Macbeth who prophesy the main character's ascent to power. This cleverly mirrors the plot and adds depth to the significance of the song.

Do 'Harry Potter's Characters Understand the Shakespeare Reference?

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures.

The Wizarding World, depicted in the Harry Potter series, bears enough resemblance to reality that it is plausible for renowned figures like Shakespeare and Macbeth to exist. However, the wizards portrayed in the films remain largely oblivious to muggle culture. Notably, Arthur Weasley, a fervent muggle enthusiast, struggles to comprehend the concept of rubber ducks. Wizards have their own unique set of subjects, children's stories, and music, making it unlikely for Flitwick to select a song with lyrics derived from muggle literature. The mere fact that this song is performed in front of the entire school suggests that the Wizarding World possesses knowledge of Shakespeare's works. Throughout the series, numerous historical, mythological, and literary allusions are made, to the extent of implying that King Arthur's legendary wizard, Merlin, may have been a member of the wizarding community. Furthermore, it is intriguing to note that Nicolas Flamel, the possessor of the sorcerer's stone in the first film, was indeed a real-life French scribe.

What does this mean for Shakespeare? It implies that he might be considered a member of the magical community, given his extraordinary way with words. However, this song alone does not confirm Shakespeare's status as a wizard within the wizarding world. Despite the separation between the Wizarding World and the non-magical world, there is some overlap, particularly with muggle-born and half-blood wizards. Considering the many generations that have passed since Shakespeare's time, along with the ongoing popularity of his plays, it is plausible that Shakespeare could have become a part of the Wizarding World without actually being born into it. Nevertheless, this song does reveal that the witches and wizards in the Harry Potter universe embrace the slightly ominous reputation associated with their titles among non-magical folks.

You can stream Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on Max in the U.S.

Editor's P/S

As an enthusiastic fan of both Harry Potter and Shakespeare, I find the connection between the two works fascinating. The incorporation of Shakespeare's "Song of the Witches" in the Harry Potter series, specifically in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," is a clever nod to the Bard's influence on the Wizarding World.

The song, performed by the Hogwarts choir, not only establishes a link between the depiction of witches in both works but also suggests a broader appreciation for Shakespeare within the magical realm. It is intriguing to see how the Wizarding World acknowledges and admires Shakespeare's portrayal of witchcraft, despite its differences from their own magical traditions. This reference not only enriches the Harry Potter universe but also highlights the enduring relevance and impact of Shakespeare's works across different genres and time periods.