It’s hard to think of a saga with a bigger reach and cultural impact than the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. Told over the course of seven books, the story of boy wizard Harry’s adventures and trials at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry continues to resonate with millions of fans—young and old—across the globe.
At the heart of the books is Harry Potter himself, whose unforgettable journey from orphaned outcast to hero has earned him a place among the most iconic characters of fantasy fiction.
Who is Harry Potter?
Harry Potter is a young wizard, described as a small and skinny boy with a thin face, knobbly knees, bright green eyes, jet-black hair, and a scar in the shape of a lightning bolt on his forehead.
From Chapter Two: The Vanishing Glass
Performed by Stephen Fry
In the first book of the series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, we find out that Harry is the son of Lily and James Potter. Lord Voldemort attempted to kill Harry when he was just a baby, but Harry’s parents sacrifice themselves in order to protect their young son’s life.
After losing his parents, Harry is raised by the Dursleys—his mother’s sister, Petunia, and her husband, Vernon—who mistreat Harry while spoiling their own son, Dudley.
From Chapter One: The Worst Birthday
Performed by Stephen Fry
Harry, whose room at the Dursleys is initially a cupboard under the stairs, grows into a thoughtful and inquisitive child who is often stifled by his home life. While Harry spends the first eleven years of his life oblivious of his past and identity, he is unwittingly famous in the wizarding world for surviving an attack by Lord Voldemort.
Harry’s uncle, Vernon Dursley, tries to evade multiple attempts by Hogwarts to reach his nephew through letters. But on his 11th birthday, Harry finally learns the truth: Harry is a wizard, and he has a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
From Chapter Four: The Keeper of the Keys
Performed by Stephen Fry
What house is Harry Potter in?
After some deliberation, the Sorting Hat placed Harry in Gryffindor, “where dwell the brave at heart.” Gryffindor is where Harry’s own parents, James and Lily, were sorted when they attended Hogwarts.
From Chapter Seven: The Sorting Hat
Performed by Stephen Fry
The house was founded by Godric Gryffindor and was once home to Albus Dumbledore and Minerva McGonagall. Harry’s closest friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, are also Gryffindors.
Who voices Harry Potter in audio?
The incomparable Stephen Fry lends his signature warmth and wit to his performance of the Harry Potter series. Fry brings decades of years performing on stage, screen, and beyond to his rich telling of the iconic series.
And now, there are more ways than ever to immerse yourself in the wizarding world. Pottermore Publishing and Audible collaborative full-cast editions—now available for preorder—feature both established talents and rising stars in key roles.
Who are Harry Potter’s friends and allies?
Throughout the series, Harry meets a number of fellow wizards and witches who become dear friends and chosen family. A few of his closest companions are:
Ron Weasley, a well-meaning, funny, loyal wizard from a large (somewhat chaotic) family of red-headed witches and wizards, and one of Harry’s best friends.
Hermione Granger, a confident, level-headed, whip-smart witch from a Muggle family, and one of Harry’s best friends.
Rubeus Hagrid, Hogwarts’ groundskeeper and one of Harry’s fiercest protectors.
Albus Dumbledore, Hogwarts’ headmaster and a trusted, dependable confidant to Harry.
Over the years, Harry also forms strong bonds with fellow Hogwarts students including Neville Longbottom and Luna Lovegood; the Weasley clan including parental figures Molly and Arthur; and Hogwarts staff including Professor Remus Lupin.
From Chapter Ten: Hallowe'en
Performed by Stephen Fry
Who are Harry Potter’s antagonists and enemies?
In the fight against the dark side that slowly unfolds over the course of the seven Harry Potter books, Harry also finds himself challenged by foes both purely evil and those unkind or unpleasant. A selection of the characters Harry is at odds with in the series include:
The Dursleys, Harry’s only known family—his Aunt Petunia (his mother’s sister), his Uncle Vernon, and his cousin Dudley—who mistreat and neglect him.
Draco Malfoy, who, along with a group of fellow Slytherin students including Vincent Crabbe, Gregory Goyle, and Pansy Parkington, routinely bully Harry and his friends.
Severus Snape, Hogwarts’ potions professor, who bristles at Harry’s presence and seems to have it out for him from the day of his arrival at Hogwarts.
The Death Eaters, a group of Voldemort’s sworn followers who do his terrible bidding and hide behind anonymity.
Voldemort, a powerful and universally feared dark wizard, is Harry’s ultimate enemy and most formidable foe.
From Chapter Six: The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters
Performed by Stephen Fry
Experience Harry’s world in audio
Harry and his friends go on a myriad of adventures throughout the Harry Potter series, taking them on a journey from magical, whimsical beginnings to a battle for the wizarding world and mugglekind alike. Curious about where Harry’s adventures take him? You’ll have to listen in to find out.
