Iser’s argument concerning the modification of expectations in literary texts can be applied to both Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. In Sorcerer’s Stone, the reader is led to believe that Professor Snape is behind any type of dark magic or dangerous occurrences taking place within the castle. However, we find out that it is Lord Voldemort himself, acting through the completely unsuspected Professor Quirrell. Additionally, I did not expect Harry to meet Lord Voldemort so early in the series since Lord Voldemort is build up to be such a great wizard and Harry is only beginning his wizarding career and learning about his past.
In Chamber of Secrets, one could reason that the expectation is raised that Harry is the possible heir of Slytherin. Although we find out that Harry is not the heir of Slytherin, Rowling does not completely disregard this expectation because Harry does have connections to Lord Voldemort, who we find out is the true heir of Slytherin. Because of the structure of the first book, I had expectations that Harry would once again meet Lord Voldemort, however I did expect him to be in the form of Tom Riddle. By introducing Lord Voldemort to readers as Tom Riddle, Rowling conveys that there is another component to Lord Voldemort and that his days as Tom Riddle will affect and lay the foundation for his later life as Lord Voldemort.
An author’s choice to raise an expectation and then fail to fulfill it illustrates the complexity of the story. The author is suggesting to readers that many different outcomes are possible, and this keeps readers engaged with the story. This relates to Harry Potter specifically, in that Rowling is keeping story lines open in order to development them further and to eventually connect characters or plot lines that the reader might not necessary expect.
I agree when you say that Rowling conveys another element to Voldemort by introducing Tom Riddle so early in the series. Now, "You Know Who" is portrayed not only as the terrifying Lord Voldemort, but also as a teenage boy named Tom Riddle. The Chamber of Secrets reveals that Riddle already has a mischievous, unscrupulous and charismatic nature. Plus, it points out that Harry and Voldemort share many similarities, which is extremely interesting and leads you want to learn more about their connection.
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