After his parents (Lily and James Potter) were tragically killed, he was placed with the Dursleys, his shallow and unloving aunt and uncle who were ignorant of the wizarding world. For eleven years, he slept in a bug-filled cupboard under the stairs, was looked down upon, and was constantly lied to about his origins. However, he learns his secret past through stubborn wizarding letters arriving as his eleventh birthday approaches, and finally when Hagrid kicks down the door of the hut on a stormy night. Harry's primary function in the story is to reflect a brand-new universe (the wizarding world)—which is a great enigma even to himself—to the reader through innocent, discovering eyes. He is no ordinary hero; he is a humble chosen one, unaware of his own potential, yet destined to stand against great dark powers. On this journey toward Hogwarts, he begins to taste a sense of belonging through his new abilities, unknown wealth, and new friends (Ron Weasley).
