Thursday, February 12, 2015

Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix by: J. K. Rowling Response

          The book Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix by J. K. Rowling follows the story of 15 year old Harry during his fifth year at Hogwarts.  During his fifth year Harry has many worries weighing down his shoulders; Lord Voldemort has returned and the Ministry of Magic doesn't believe that Harry saw him.  Harry spent the entire summer with his aunt Petunia and uncle Vernon, and he spent every second of everyday wishing he were with his friends Ron and Hermione.  Harry faces many adventures and hardships during his fifth year.
J. K. Rowling expresses themes in Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix by using the character’s actions and words.  One theme in the book that Rowling portrays is freedom.  For example, Hermione fights relentlessly for the house-elf Kreacher to gain freedom.  After Kreacher makes a stride remark Hermione defends him by stating “It doesn’t matter he’s not in his right mind, he doesn't know what he’s­­-”. Hermione finds it extremely unfair that elves are enslaved by “masters”; she wishes that all elves would be freed.  Hermione even tries to convince all of those around her to campaign for the freedom of house-elves.  In other words Hermione is a strong advocate for elf rights.  Also, during Harry’s fifth year at Hogwarts, Hogwarts is under careful supervision from the Ministry of Magic.  The Ministry of Magic even enlists a member from the ministry to become a teacher at Hogwarts.  The new teacher, Dolores Umbridge, states Your previous instruction in this subject has been disturbingly uneven. But you will be pleased to know from now on, you will be following a carefully structured, Ministry-approved course of defensive magic.”  By creating an entire new curriculum for the students, the Ministry of Magic proves to Dumbledore that they have more power then he thinks and wishes.  The Ministry of Magic tries to retain their image and reputation by revoking the student’s freedom to complete simple tasks like sending owls to their loved ones.  Dolores Umbridge invades their privacy by reading each outgoing letter, and deciding whether or not they will be sent.
In conclusion, J. K. Rowling portrays the characters in certain ways to convey themes.  Throughout the book, Harry and his friends must fight for their own freedom against the Ministry of Magic and Lord Voldemort.  Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix relates to worldwide issues today.  Countries are still fighting for their own freedom and rights.  I think J.K. Rowling includes different themes that all connect to one major theme; unity.  By uniting together groups of people can accomplish anything.  In other words, asking for help of offering help should not be looked down upon; everyone needs help at one point in their life.

            

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