Harry Potter: A Buildungsroman

I truly believe Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows to be a buildungsroman, simply because Harry is shown, even just in the last book, to grow exponentially- starting at a little boy with a big job to do and big shoes to fill, and ending with Harry resigning himself to his duty and perhaps to his death, and giving everything he has (granted sometimes this isn't much, but it gets the job done, no matter). He relies on his friends around him which gives him strength, but it is in his understanding of himself and his past- his parents stories, the true nature of Snape and Dumbledore- that give him the resolve and pure ability to finish off what he was put on the world to do. He takes on exactly what every adult is asked to do- their job in the world they were put on Earth to do- and yet he does it at 17. Because of this tremendous growing up and the acceptance of his mission, Harry Potter is indeed a buildungsroman, perhaps, at times, in disguise.

HarryPotter.1

I find the way in which Voldemort and Harry have a connection very interesting in regards to the development not only of Harry in his life, but of the plot as well. This connection is the epitome of good vs evil, with Harry trying all he can to get away from the evil of Voldemort, except the only thing he can actually do in order to close this connection- occlumency. He is urged by everyone around him, especially Hermione the expert, but is unable- or rather, unwilling- to practice this to save his mind. However, this is very important as very critical plot information is derived from this connection as Harry can see what Voldemort is doing and who his is doing it to. This not only gives Harry information as to the whereabouts of his foe, but also affects his mind in such a way that he is often taken aback and unable to carry on ‘normal’ daily happenings because of these distractions. This connection, an almost working together of good and evil, are the main crux of this story and it coincides with the life and previous actions of Harry himself, not one to follow the rules, however, when given the chance between right and wrong, Harry most generally chooses the choice with the best ending. In working through this connection while still allowing the information, the connection, to flow freely, Harry not only is given important information as to how to defeat Voldemort, but he is also strengthened and readied for the task ahead through the mental struggle.