Harry Potter as a Bildungsroman

Being the last of the seven series, this book reveals the transformation that takes place not only in Harry but in many other characters as well. After Dobby’s death, Harry comes to accept the fact that he was meant to know about the Hallows, but not meant to seek them. From then on, Harry dedicates himself to destroying the Horcruxes, while putting the Hallows on the back burner. By choosing one and not the other, Harry has chosen to fight evil instead of trying to attain power. He has grown into someone that is truly selfless and heroic. In addition, Ron also grows a great deal in this last installment. After rescuing Harry and destroying one of the Horcruxes, Ron realizes that he is significant to the group. He too has a role in fighting evil. He suppresses his feelings of insubordination next to Harry, and comes into his own. Hermione also reveals her growth as Beatrix was torturing her. For someone who was so emotionally weak, and cries all the time, she revealed how strong willed she could be. Through these characters and their gradual development, this book reveals the coming of age aspect that qualifies it as a bildungsroman.