The Life of Harry Potter: The Hero's Journey Explained (Video Essay / Theory Video)

Summary

This video script explores the structure of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series through the lens of Joseph Campbell's 'Hero's Journey'. It outlines Harry's progression from his ordinary life to facing challenges and gaining allies in the Wizarding World. Key moments like receiving his Hogwarts letter, meeting Dumbledore, and overcoming internal and external conflicts are highlighted. The script also touches on Harry's ultimate sacrifice and rebirth, leading to his victory over Voldemort and a new life with his family.

Takeaways

• 📚 Harry Potter follows the 'Hero's Journey' narrative arc, a classic writing formula developed by Joseph Campbell.
• 🌐 The 'Hero's Journey' consists of twelve stages that describe the adventure of the hero, in this case, Harry Potter.
• 👶 Harry's ordinary world is the Muggle world, which sets the stage for his character and abilities.
• 📜 The call to adventure comes when Hagrid delivers Harry's Hogwarts letter, disrupting his ordinary life.
• 🤔 Harry experiences reluctance to accept his role as the hero, especially when faced with the prophecy.
• 🚪 Crossing the threshold signifies Harry's commitment to his journey as he enters the Wizarding World.
• 🧙‍♂️ Albus Dumbledore serves as Harry's mentor, providing guidance, training, and confidence throughout his journey.
• 🔮 Harry faces a series of tests, allies, and enemies, which challenge him and help him grow as a hero.
• 🏰 The approach to the inmost cave represents Harry's inner conflicts and the dangers he faces in his quest.
• 🔙 The road back signifies Harry's return to the ordinary world, now changed and ready to face his final challenges.
• 💀 The ordeal and resurrection stages reflect Harry's literal brush with death and his rebirth as a stronger hero.
• 🏆 The reward stage sees Harry emerge victorious with the Deathly Hallows, symbolizing his triumph over Voldemort.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 In the end, Harry's journey concludes with him starting a new life, having grown and learned from his experiences.

Q & A

What is the hero's journey?

The hero's journey is a twelve-stage narrative arc that describes the typical adventure of the hero, which was originally constructed by Joseph Campbell.

How does the hero's journey relate to Harry Potter?

J.K. Rowling followed the hero's journey formula in writing the Harry Potter series, which is evident in the way Harry's story unfolds across the books.

What is the ordinary world in Harry Potter?

The ordinary world in Harry Potter is the muggle world where Harry lives with the Dursleys before he receives his Hogwarts letter.

What is the call to adventure for Harry?

The call to adventure for Harry is when Hagrid arrives to deliver his Hogwarts letter, disrupting his ordinary life and presenting him with the quest to enter the Wizarding World.

What does the refusal of the call signify in Harry's journey?

The refusal of the call signifies Harry's personal doubts and fears about whether he is capable or the right person to undertake the challenges that lie ahead.

Can you explain the crossing of the threshold in Harry's story?

Crossing the threshold is when Harry decides to leave the Dursleys and the muggle world behind, entering the Wizarding World, which has unfamiliar rules and values.

Who is Harry's mentor figure in the series?

Albus Dumbledore serves as Harry's mentor, providing him with guidance, wisdom, and support throughout his journey.

What challenges does Harry face in the 'tests, allies, and enemies' stage?

Harry faces physical obstacles such as Quirrell and the basilisk, as well as internal obstacles like dealing with fame and the loss of his parents.

How does the approach to the inmost cave reflect Harry's inner conflict?

The approach to the inmost cave reflects Harry's inner conflict as he grapples with his connection to Voldemort and the fear of following a similar path.

What is the significance of the road back step in Harry's journey?

The road back signifies Harry's return to the ordinary world, in this case, going back to the Dursleys before his mission to find the Horcruxes, symbolizing the final step before his ultimate confrontation with Voldemort.

What does Harry gain from the ordeal and resurrection steps?

In the ordeal, Harry faces death and is reborn with greater power and insight, which allows him to protect his allies during the Battle of Hogwarts in the resurrection.

What is the reward Harry receives after his journey?

Harry's reward is the Deathly Hallows, which symbolize his victory over death and his growth as a hero. He becomes the master of death without taking on the mantle.

How does Harry's life change after completing his journey?

After his journey, Harry becomes an Auror, gets married to Ginny, has children, and reconciles with former enemies, showing his transformation into a changed and mature individual.