I love your project! I really enjoy reading your analysis.
Great insight about the clocks! Just like you, I’ve read Harry Potter so many times I’ve lost count, and I never noticed that before.
I think Rowling uses clocks to highlight the differences between characters. Dumbledore’s clock with planets represents infinity and truths that ordinary people can’t access. Dudley’s clock is just an expensive gadget he demanded from his parents. Later in the series, we learn that a watch is a traditional 17th birthday gift, but Dudley’s watch had nothing to do with tradition—it was just a reflection of his unchecked ego.
And why did Harry want a watch? Because a clock gives you control, and that’s something he always lacked. Throughout the books, he often points out that his achievements weren’t really his own—they were luck or the help of others. He wants control, but he never truly has it.
That’s why The Cursed Child ties into this symbolism so well—Harry finally has the chance to take control, but he chooses not to. He’s come to terms with the fact that some things in life are simply beyond control.
This entire chapter could be named Empathy for Harry.
Even though his cousin got big ice cream, he seems happy to get lemon ice pop. He's a stoic; he is happy with what he gets. Also, reading this chapter, I don't feel he hates the Dursleys despite their abuse.
The zoo and snake scene in the movie is an improvement on the one in the book. In the book, the glass only disappears, while in the movie, Dudley is trapped in the snake's cage.
I love your project! I really enjoy reading your analysis.
Great insight about the clocks! Just like you, I’ve read Harry Potter so many times I’ve lost count, and I never noticed that before.
I think Rowling uses clocks to highlight the differences between characters. Dumbledore’s clock with planets represents infinity and truths that ordinary people can’t access. Dudley’s clock is just an expensive gadget he demanded from his parents. Later in the series, we learn that a watch is a traditional 17th birthday gift, but Dudley’s watch had nothing to do with tradition—it was just a reflection of his unchecked ego.
And why did Harry want a watch? Because a clock gives you control, and that’s something he always lacked. Throughout the books, he often points out that his achievements weren’t really his own—they were luck or the help of others. He wants control, but he never truly has it.
That’s why The Cursed Child ties into this symbolism so well—Harry finally has the chance to take control, but he chooses not to. He’s come to terms with the fact that some things in life are simply beyond control.
Thank you so much for this insightful comment. We're nearly done with the first book now. Chapter 16, Through the Trapdoor will come out this Friday!
This entire chapter could be named Empathy for Harry.
Even though his cousin got big ice cream, he seems happy to get lemon ice pop. He's a stoic; he is happy with what he gets. Also, reading this chapter, I don't feel he hates the Dursleys despite their abuse.
The zoo and snake scene in the movie is an improvement on the one in the book. In the book, the glass only disappears, while in the movie, Dudley is trapped in the snake's cage.