The Issue with Julia’s Plot in The Magicians

Photo by Yeshi Kangrang on Unsplash

(Content warning: Discussion of sexual assault. Also, spoilers).

Okay, so, I’ve been catching up on The Magicians (the show, not the books. I have not read the books, so please don’t point any blame at Grossman).

And I have profound issues with Julia Wicker’s storyline. I like the show. I like the way that it points out the deep issues with Narnia. Elliot is the best character on TV since my girl Parker (Leverage).

But.

Julia Wicker’s storyline just has…issues.

(As a note, I’m behind. I just watched the episode in which they all sing “Under Pressure” and am mad that they didn’t include “Love Shack.” I may update this once I catch up).

Sexual Assault

The problem starts when Julia is raped by Reynard the Fox. I’m not going to use any euphemisms here.

She’s raped.

Now, I don’t necessarily have the issues many do with rape as a storyline, and in this case it’s not being used to motivate a man close to the victim. It’s also not gratuitous, but central to what is going on.

Her memory is wiped then restored and Revenge is on her mind. But there’s something else…