In the final film, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, Harry Potter is 17 years old, preparing to turn 18 shortly after the Battle of Hogwarts. This puts him right on the cusp of adulthood in both the wizarding and Muggle worlds, facing responsibilities far beyond his years.
A Closer Look at Harry’s Age in Deathly Hallows
While the final battle unfolds in May 1998, Harry’s birthday is July 31st, 1980. This timing places him at the age of 17 throughout the events of the seventh book and the corresponding two-part film adaptation. He would be turning 18 in just over two months after defeating Voldemort. This is crucial to understanding his position and the weight of his decisions during this pivotal period. The books and films are careful to emphasize the imminent nature of his adulthood, which adds to the sense of pressure and destiny that surrounds him.
The Significance of Turning 17 in the Wizarding World
In the wizarding world, 17 is a significant age. It marks the point at which a witch or wizard becomes a fully fledged adult. They are granted the right to use magic freely without parental or guardian supervision, can Apparate (though Harry had already Apparated illegally), and can purchase items restricted to those of age. However, for Harry, this milestone takes a backseat to the looming threat of Voldemort and the urgent need to save the wizarding world. His focus is solely on the task at hand, relegating celebrations and personal milestones to the background.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Harry’s Age
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding Harry Potter’s age in the final installment of the series:
When is Harry Potter’s birthday?
Harry Potter was born on July 31st, 1980. This makes him one of the youngest students in his year at Hogwarts, as the school year begins on September 1st.
What year does Deathly Hallows – Part 2 take place?
The events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 take place in 1998, primarily in May.
How old are Ron and Hermione in the last movie?
Like Harry, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger are also 17 years old during the final battle. Ron’s birthday is March 1st, 1980, making him older than Harry, while Hermione’s is September 19th, 1979, making her the oldest of the trio.
Does Harry celebrate his 18th birthday in the books or movies?
No, Harry does not explicitly celebrate his 18th birthday in either the books or the movies. The narrative focuses on the events leading up to and culminating in the defeat of Voldemort, leaving little room for personal celebrations. The epilogue jumps forward 19 years, so we don’t see Harry at 18.
How old is Harry in the epilogue?
In the epilogue, set 19 years after the Battle of Hogwarts, Harry is 37 years old. He is seen with his wife Ginny and their children at King’s Cross Station.
Is Harry Potter of legal age to vote in the Muggle world during the final movie?
No, Harry is not of legal voting age in the Muggle world during the events of Deathly Hallows – Part 2. The voting age in the UK is 18, and Harry is only 17 at the time.
How does Harry’s age influence his decisions in the final battle?
While Harry is technically still a teenager, his experiences and responsibilities have forced him to mature beyond his years. He is willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good, demonstrating a level of selflessness and courage that is remarkable for someone his age. The impending arrival of his 18th birthday arguably heightens the urgency, knowing he’s officially an adult in just a few short months.
How does Harry’s age compare to other characters fighting in the Battle of Hogwarts?
The Battle of Hogwarts sees a wide range of ages participating, from young students like Neville Longbottom to seasoned veterans like Professor McGonagall. Harry, being 17, is among the younger fighters, but his unique connection to Voldemort and his exceptional magical abilities make him a crucial participant. Many of the younger students are brave and strong too, even though they are technically children.
Were child actors used to portray characters who were 17 in the final film?
Yes, the main cast, including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson, were all teenagers themselves during the filming of Deathly Hallows – Part 2. They were age-appropriate for their roles, which contributed to the authenticity of their performances.
What are some of the coming-of-age themes explored in the final Harry Potter installment?
Deathly Hallows delves into several coming-of-age themes, including:
- Confronting mortality: Harry faces the reality of death and his own potential sacrifice.
- Taking responsibility: He accepts the burden of his destiny and makes difficult choices for the greater good.
- Defining one’s identity: Harry grapples with his connection to Voldemort and ultimately chooses his own path.
- Dealing with loss: the loss of many people close to him shapes Harry into an adult, forcing him to cope with grief and despair.
Does the storyline change based on Harry’s age?
Yes, Harry’s age heavily influences the storyline. If he was, for example, 16 or even younger, he likely wouldn’t have the maturity to make the critical decisions he makes. His impending adulthood underscores the seriousness of the situation and the weight of his choices, which adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Furthermore, being 17 means he can legally use magic, a critical element as he operates away from school.
Is Harry Potter officially considered an adult after the final movie?
Yes, both in the wizarding and (shortly thereafter) in the Muggle world, Harry Potter is considered an adult after the events of Deathly Hallows – Part 2. He takes on the responsibilities of adulthood, including becoming an Auror and starting a family. His journey from orphaned boy to savior of the wizarding world culminates in him embracing his role as a mature and responsible member of society. His transformation from boy wizard to adult hero is complete.