Author: Shikha Choudhary, A S Rao

Abstract: The landscape of mental health research has evolved significantly, broadening its scope from a narrow focus on severe psychiatric disorders to a more comprehensive understanding of psychological well-being. This shift recognizes the cumulative impact of seemingly minor emotional challenges, which can escalate into significant mental health concerns over time. Contemporary approaches emphasize the importance of early intervention across the spectrum of psychological experiences, acknowledging that prevention and timely support are crucial for maintaining overall mental wellness. This research presents an in-depth comparative analysis of trauma representation and healing processes in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and Amish Tripathi's Shiva Trilogy. These influential works, emerging from distinct cultural backgrounds, offer complementary perspectives on trauma recovery. The study explores how these narratives employ their respective magical and mythological frameworks to convey complex psychological concepts accessibly. By examining character development, narrative structures, and cultural contexts, the research illuminates how contemporary fantasy literature serves as a powerful medium for exploring intricate psychological themes.The analysis reveals that while Harry Potter reflects a Western psychological approach emphasizing individual resilience supported by community, the Shiva Trilogy presents an Eastern paradigm integrating personal growth with societal transformation. This comparative study contributes to the growing body of literature on trauma representation in fiction, offering valuable insights for both literary analysis and practical therapeutic applications. It demonstrates how these works bridge diverse cultural approaches to healing, enriching our understanding of trauma processing and recovery across different philosophical traditions.

Keywords: trauma theory, psychological development, comparative literature, healing narratives, cultural perspectives, magical metaphors, mythological frameworks

Article Info: Received: 12 Apr 2025; Received in revised form: 09 May 2025; Accepted: 15 May 2025; Available online: 20 May 2025

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.103.27