The Monster/Basilisk
The basilisk (which for most of the novel is referred to simply as “the monster” because people do not know what it is) embodies two ideas: first, the harmful nature of prejudice, and second, the…
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Fawkes
Fawkes, Dumbledore’s phoenix, becomes a symbol of Harry and Dumbledore’s shared loyalty, and of how Dumbledore’s support of Harry inspires Harry’s bravery. After several mysterious attacks on students, Dumbledore is forced to leave his post…
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The Sword of Gryffindor
The Sword of Gryffindor represents Harry’s ability to choose his own identity. Throughout much of the book, Harry worries that he does not actually belong in Gryffindor because the Sorting Hat tried to put him…
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