The Unicorn: Fact and Fiction

(Yes, fact and fiction. We're at HOGWARTS right? So I hope it's okay that I wrote this like there really is a world of witches and wizards. If not, well, I guess I won't earn as many house points as I had hoped it would. )

<u>The Unicorn: Fact and Fiction</u>

The unicorn is one of the most mysterious and magical beasts known to man. This amazing animal has fascinated both Muggles and the wizarding race for thousands of years. But the real unicorn is slightly different than the one portrayed in Muggle fiction. In the Muggle world, the unicorn is a beautiful white creature used in many storybooks and fantasy ones, too. The white color is one of the only things about this fantastic creature that the Muggles have gotten correct. The non-magical population doesn’t know as much as they think they do about these wondrous animals.

The real unicorn is a born a golden color and stays golden until the age of two when it turns silver. At four years of age, the unicorn is an adult and has turned pure white, a white that makes even snow look off-white. These creatures are found in many of the forests of northern Europe. Many parts of the animal have magical properties; the horn, silvery blood and mane especially. Though very hard to catch and untamable, a witch may be allowed to approach a unicorn. But for male wizards, it would be best to stay away. Though beautiful, the unicorn can be dangerous.

The unicorn has long been a symbol of independence. In fact, James VI of Scotland added the unicorn to the British coat of arms to represent Scotland’s independent spirit when he became James I of Britain in the year 1603.

In the Old Testament, the unicorn is mentioned several times. The books of Numbers, Deuteronomy, Psalms and Job contain the word. Some scholars believe that the unicorn is a symbol used to represent Christ. But using the word “unicorn” could be a mistake. The word in the original text is better translated as “wild ox.” Translators of the time of King James I may have wanted to translate the word as “unicorn” because of the unicorn James I added to the British coat of arms.

The unicorn, though a myth to Muggles, is real in our world, the world of witches and wizards and shouldn’t be hunted. For the safety of yourself and this wonderful creature, let the unicorn continue to live in the wild and be free.

~*~

<u><i>Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire</u></i> by J. K. Rowling

<u><i>The magical Worlds of Harry Potter: A Treasury of Myths, Legends, and Fascinating Facts</u></i> by David Colbert

<u><i>Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them</u></i> by Newt Scamander

Heh, writing it the way you did is just fine and, although a bit short for my taste, it was over word count and was an interesting read, so take your 50 points.