When one is asked how they describe a hero, they state a muscular physique and a colourful costume. What one remains oblivious to is the characteristics a hero possesses. In ancient times, Greek Gods had to display certain characteristics to be classified as heroes, the following are solid examples. Harry Potter has an obscure origin, he is supplied with companions throughout his journey, and the young wizard seeks an object, which turns out to be no more than a symbol of what he actually finds. By examining the listed attributes, one must agree that Harry Potter possesses and displays the characteristics of a classic Greek hero.
First of all, Harry Potter has an obscure origin. Harry learns he is a wizard, and his mysterious past at eleven years of age. He asks Hagrid a few questions about his parents’ death, to which the half-giant replies: “You’re parents fought against him, but nobody lived once he decided to kill ‘em!” (Chris Columbus). Hagrid explains to Harry that when the young wizard is an infant his parents are killed by him, the dark Lord Voldemort. Hagrid also goes on to explain how the whole wizard world knows Harry: “You’re the boy who lived!” (Chris Columbus). Hagrid tells him how Voldemort tries to kill him as well, but fails. The young wizard is the only individual ever to survive an attack from Voldemort, but this left a thunderbolt shaped scar on his forehead. Harry has a mysterious origin and therefore possesses one of the many characteristics of a genuine hero.
Haq 2
In addition to that, Harry Potter has companions throughout his journey. Hermione Granger and Ronald Weasley accompany the young wizard on his riveting quest. Dumbeldore awards these two, for their assistance, with last-minute points for their house, Gryffindor: “To Ms. Hermione Granger, for the cool use of intellect when others were in grave peril, 50 points! Second to Mr. Ronald Weasley, for the best played game of chess that Hogwarts has seen these many years, 50 points!” (Chris Columbus). Hermione uses her cleverness and intellect to get Harry through the Devil’s Snare unharmed, and Ron uses his strategies and previous chess experience to win the breath taking life-sized chess match, which leads to the room containing the Philosopher’s Stone. Harry’s companions give him moral support throughout his journey as well, Hermione: “You’ll be okay Harry. You’re a great wizard, you really are” (Chris Columbus). Before Harry enters into the final room, he is worried, due to the fact that he has to go alone. But Hermione’s words give the young wizard more confidence in his own abilities. Without both of their talents and moral support, Harry would not have gotten close to reaching the final room. Harry Potter has companions throughout his quest, thus displaying the characteristics of a true hero.
Finally, what Harry Potter seeks is no more than a symbol of what he really achieves, growth as a person. Before going to Hogwarts, Harry is shy and unsure of his own abilities: “No, you’ve made a mistake. I can’t be a wizard. I mean I’m just Harry, just Harry” (Chris Columbus). When Hagrid reveals to Harry that he is a wizard, Harry finds it very hard to believe. This is because Harry is stripped of any privileges at the Dursleys’ house; he is not used to any individual attention. Harry, just like his companions, gains some bonus points from Dumbeldore
Haq 3 for his heroic displays: “And third to Mr. Harry Potter, for pure love and outstanding courage, I award Gryffindor house 60 points!” (Chris Columbus). After a year at Hogwarts, Harry becomes more loving, loyal and courageous. He goes from being a timid boy to a brave young wizard, who goes face-to-face with the most dangerous wizard in the world, Voldemort. Harry shows love and leadership when he instructs Hermione before entering the final room: “Take care of Ron, then go to the Owlery and send a message to Dumbeldore. Ron was right, I have to go on” (Chris Columbus). He worries about his companions, showing loyalty and compassion. He develops many qualities while at Hogwarts, which help him grow as a person. A genuine hero learns from their experiences, and matures spiritually. Harry Potter does just that, so accordingly he possesses the characteristics of a traditional hero.
By putting the aforementioned traits into consideration, one must agree that Harry Potter possesses and display’s the characteristics of a classic Greek hero. Harry has an obscure origin, he is accompanied by two fellow wizards throughout his quest, and what he seeks is no more than a symbol of what he really finds. Due to his size and age, people may think of Harry Potter as nothing more than a child. This leaves many ignorant to his abilities and accomplishments. A hero must not be determined just by their appearance, but more importantly, by their characteristics. It’s the size of the heart that matters, not the size of the body.
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