The Role Of Albus Dumbledore

1074 Words5 Pages
THE PATERNAL ROLE OF ALBUS DUMBLEDORE TOWARDS HARRY POTTER AND IT’S SIGNIFICANCE IN HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER’S STONE BY J. K. ROWLING J. K Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” amongst several themes and events, shows the relationship between Albus Dumbledore and Harry Potter. Throughout the novel, Rowling shows how Dumbledore plays a paternal role in Harry’s life. He is like a father-figure in Harry’s life because Harry looks up to him whenever he needs someone to talk to. Dumbledore’s paternal roles towards Harry that I choose to analyze are Dumbledore as Harry’s protector, guardian, and counselor, as well as its significance in Harry’s life. At the beginning of the novel, we see Dumbledore’s role as Harry’s protector. Dumbledore shows compassion and love for Harry as a baby after his encounter with Lord Voldemort, as he steps up to the role of a father-figure to Harry. As a father would wish his child to have a great future, so also is Dumbledore’s wish for Harry. After the tragic death of Harry’s parents, Dumbledore decides that Harry will live with his Muggle aunt and uncle - the Dursleys, until Harry is old enough to understand the mysteries behind his existence as “the boy who lived” (pg. 24). Although, Professor McGonagall as regards the nature of the Dursleys questioned Dumbledore’s decision, Dumbledore was firm on his decision by stating that the family is “the best place for him” (pg. 20). Dumbledore like a father would, have the well-being and safety of Harry at heart. He believes that Harry will be saved from Voldemort’s followers in their quest for revenge. Like every child, Dumbledore also wants Harry to have some childhood experience growing up. He believes that Harry’s ignorance of his powers and importance in the magical world as a growing child, “until he is ready to take it” (pg. 20), will help to undermine the tendency of
Open Document