Nobodys ideas are completely original. Just like Tolkien took his ideas from Beowulf etc Rowling probably found her ideas from lots of different sources. There are bound to be similarities, because it's the fantasy genre and lots of things relate to each other. For instance, some people say that Gandalf and Dumbledore are similar. They are just traditional images of wizards that so many people have used. Rowling is playing off the stereotypical image of wizards and witches. Except for Gandalf, Tokien doesn't. he created a totally different place from the world that Rowling created. Of course, you could argue that she copied the lesser known 'Worst Witch' books. But I think that the Harry Potter books and Lord of the Rings are very different and I like them both.
Sorry if I repeted anyones points, but I don't have time to read the whole entire topic. Just thought I'd chip in my 2 cents!
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'What news from the South, O sighing wind, do you bring to me at eve?
Where now is Boromir the Fair? He tarries and I grieve.'
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