'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone' by JK Rowling: A Close Reading

Chapter One: The Contrast between Harry and the Dursley's

Chapter Two: Magic, Witchcraft and the Importance of Names

Chapter Three: How Does Rowling Create Tension?

Chapter Four: Conflicts and Power Struggles

Chapters Five and Six: Diagon Alley and the Symbolism of Harry's Wand

Chapters Seven and Eight: Hogwarts, the Sorting Hat, Houses and Muggles

Chapter Nine: the Forbidden Hallway and the Necessity of Rebellion

Chapter Ten: the Troll Episode and a Character Analysis of Hermione Granger

Chapter Eleven: The Quidditch Match; The Importance of Talent and Teamwork

Chapters Twelve and Thirteen: The Mirror of Erised; The Contrast between Dumbledore and Snape

Chapter Fourteen: Character Analysis of Hagrid and the Dangers of Naivety and Blind Optimism.

Chapter Fifteen: Character Analysis of Voldemort

Chapter Sixteen: How Do Harry, Hermione and Ron Use Their Skills to Overcome Obstacles?

Chapter Seventeen: Love Conquers All!

The Key Moral Lessons