An Immortal Science

Deathly Hallows provides a density of alchemical symbols and imagery that far outshines any of its predecessors. In fact, Rowling introduces many new alchemical symbols into the series with Hallows, and I believe she “saves the best for last” in this respect. Hallows is unique because it functions as the Rubedo novel of the Harry Potter series while also serving as a representation of the complete alchemical cycle (Nigredo, Albedo, Rubedo) within itself. This capacity makes the alchemy in Hallows more pronounced than in earlier novels. Furthermore, Hallows is the first novel in the series to feature scripture from the Bible. With a Christian thread in the narrative, Hallows provides a means of exploration for the connection between a simultaneously alchemical and Christian narrative.