The Mystical Wonders of the Unicorn

As described by J.K. Rowling in "Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire" a unicorn is a symbol of the sacred. Baby unicorns are born "pure gold" with "silvery" blood. Their coats also turn silver once they are around the age of two years, and they become "pure white" when they mature. Not usually a feared creature the unicorn is nevertheless a timid one, which isn't surprising when you discover the magical properties gathered by drinking its blood. As he-who-must-not-be-named is fully aware of, the blood of a unicorn can maintain a life even if they being is just moments from death, however the price you must pay for killing such a graceful animal is of anything far worse. A curse is brought upon the head of anyone who harms a unicorn, although we know in you-know-who's case there is sufficiant justification on why he uses the blood of a unicorn. Firenze the centaur from "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" makes us aware of the sin when he says to Harry "It is a monstrous thing to slay a unicorn."

I think Harry has always been curious about unicorns, perhaps even wanted to know if it were possible for him to keep one. The thought of riding like the wind on horseback is one thing, but on the back of a pure white unicorn could be quite something else. Perhaps later on Harry will encounter another unicorn from the Dark Forest (or as named in the movie the Forbidden Forest) and this will somehow assist in a further adventure. Surely a magnificiant creature such as the unicorn could not possibley be missed by the watchful eye of J.K Rowling. The healing properties perhaps of the horn, or the symbol of being sacred or lucky will surely be seen in a future book. The unicorn as a beautiful and magical, yet shy creature will surely become of great use to Harry later on...

By Kylie Van Eerden

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