Love and Loneliness

As I continue to read the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling I come upon more and more themes. However, they always relate back to a particular subject matter, the backgrounds of the characters. In this case the theme was how did the backgrounds of the characters later affect their personality and ego. When I looked back into the books to find characters with interesting backgrounds, I wasn’t surprised how they turned out.

An interesting character with a very fascinating background was Tom Riddle who would later be known as Voldemort. Because he was seen as different by the other children at the orphanage where he spent his early childhood until he was taken to Hogwarts by Dumbledore, he was neglected and was often teased for his powers. Could it be that the taunting of Tom that turned him into a ruthless and cold-hearted killer? Or was it something deeper? Something so powerful that even a man who could kill another with the touch of his hand couldn’t live without. Could what caused Tom Riddle to become Voldemort be love?

A Leader Who's Somewhat Of A Hot-Head

As a child your parents and family have the biggest affect on your character throughout the rest of your life. They are the most influential people you will ever encounter in my opinion. However, their influence can veer your development of character in the wrong direction. Harry, in Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling grows up with his step parents and of course Dudley. Harry is neglected and is treated horribly. This turns Harry in to what he is throughout the books.

Growing up, Harry was always told he couldn't do something. He was always told to stay in the cupboard. He was always told that a pair of old and worn socks was more than enough for his birthday present. Could it be that this sparked the leader and fiery temper in the Harry Potter that we see in later years? Maybe, after so many years of being told no that this was how Harry "wiped off" his emotions and feelings. To prove to his step parents and his awful cousin that he was a leader and that he would never be told that he was wrong. Is the reason for his leadership skills and choleric self all because of the influential power of his family? What do you think?