Use of Symbolism in J.K.Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”

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Literary Analysis 25 October 2012 Word Count: 1049 Use of Symbolism in Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” by J.K.Rowling is the first in a series of seven books which chronicles the life of one Harry Potter throughout his studies at Hogwarts. As we take a look inside Hogwarts many things will not be what they appear at all. One such prop is the Sorting Hat, which will be looked at to see what role and influence it has on or reveals about Harry. As the story progresses, the strength of the Sorting Hat versus human will, and the fate of Harry as influenced by the Sorting Hat will be discussed. The symbolism Rowling captures throughout “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” is a masterpiece of imaginary creations encompassing the characters, the settings and a variety of props. Upon arrival to Hogwarts, it becomes evident that the “house” in which you are assigned is a very big deal. The manner in which you are assigned is a unique, mind boggling ceremonious affair. As Harry and his classmates were told to prepare, Professor McGonagall announced, “The Sorting Ceremony will take place in a few minutes in front of the rest of the school. I suggest you all smarten yourselves up as much as you can while you are waiting” (Rowling 114). As Harry heard this he was left in a state of confusion and shaking. To some relief however, as he looked around he saw everyone else looking terrified too. There was little known about each of the four houses, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. The only thing Harry was certain of at this point is that he did not want to be assigned to Slytherin, because this was the house “you know who” was in. You know who refers to Voldemort, the wizard responsible for the death of Harry’s parents. The comparisons and likeness between Harry and Voldemort are addressed from

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