LONDON -- Following the darker trend J.K. Rowling set in the second installment of her four-part History of Magic in North America, the Harry Potter author continues the series with another grim piece about magical segregation between wizards and muggles -- or "No-Majs", as they're known in the States.
While the first two sections of the history are clear-cut accounts that cover large periods of time, Part 3 -- released Thursday -- feels like more of a narrative story.
In piece three, uncover events that drove 18th century American wizards deeper underground: https://t.co/EEdMJDtIfA pic.twitter.com/gY5sZeajVR— Pottermore (@pottermore) March 10, 2016
The tale revolves around Dorcus, the daughter of a top MACUSA (Magical Congress of the United States of America) employee who accidentally spills a load of important secrets to the non-magical decedent of a Scourer. (You know, those nasty wizarding mercenaries from Part 2.) That inadvertently triggers a mass information leak, setting off a chain of events that end in murder plots, imprisonment and general discord between the magical and non-magical communities.
Dorcus’s indiscretions led to the introduction of Rappaport’s Law. Rappaport’s Law enforced strict segregation between the No-Maj and wizarding communities. Wizards were no longer allowed to befriend or marry No-Majs. Penalties for fraternising with No-Majs were harsh. Communication with No-Majs was limited to that necessary to perform daily activities.
The final part of the series will be released on Pottermore Friday.