Open Prompt

2008, Form B. In some works of literature, childhood and adolescence are portrayed as times graced by innocence and a sense of wonder; in other works, they are depicted as times of tribulation and terror. Focusing on a single novel or play, explain how its representation of childhood or adolescence shapes the meaning of the work as a whole.

     In the book series Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, childhood is not only portrayed as a scary place but also portrayed as innocent, showing that children can act and learn about things far beyond their age, but when it comes down to it, they are still children. This is mainly shown in the first book, The Sorcerer's Stone, where Harry is just barely eleven, and must undergo physical and mental trials not even fit for adults, while juggling a new school, friendships, and growing up, just like a "normal" child. The veiwpoint in this book of Harry's childhood pretty much sets the stage for the rest of the series- even though adolescence is a tough time, you make the best of friends, fight the worst of enemies, and learn the best of lessons as you grow up. 

     Harry's adventures start right as he turns eleven, too old to be called a child and yet too young to be called an adult. His sudden wonder and amazement at being thrust into a new and magical world symbolizes the wonder that people can feel when they suddenly start to see things in a new light-as they think they are growing up-but they're still excited kids. He's filled with so many different awesome feelings as he has a new world to explore, very much so like a child, which kind of shows us that even when you start being "older", your journey can bring out the child in you.
     When Harry was a child, he was mistreated by his Aunt and Uncle, whom he lived with. He was able to stand strong through their repeated onslaughts of cruelty, yet is watched over carefully by someone who knows what's trulyt going on. When he moves to Hogwarts, things move parallely- and admittedly, he is loved there, but he is mistreated by some students and teachers, and when he discovers that he has enemies out in the world, his new life starts to parallel his childhood. He is constantly under siege from those who wish him ill, yet is still watched over by Albus Dumbledore, who knows exactly what is going on.
     [I'm not totally sure what else to write here, but I feel I'd have to call upon the childhoods of other characters to make a point about how their arcs turn out]