Fate in Harry Potter

              Harry’s interaction with the Sorting Hat is pivotal because it tests Harry’s power over his own fate. He dreads putting on the hat because he thinks it might assign him to Slytherin: “Harry gripped the edges of the stool and thought, Not Slytherin, not Slytherin” (Rowling 121). He does not want to be associated with unlikable students like Draco Malfoy, who was assigned to Slytherin. When it is Harry’s turn to get sorted, he is nervous because he assumes that the hat has all the power and that its word is final. He does not think he has a say in determining his own future at Hogwarts. That is why he is surprised when he puts the hat on and it actually cooperates in a negotiation with Harry. “‘Not Slytherin, eh?’ said the small voice. ‘Are you sure? You could be great, you know, it’s all here in your head, and Slytherin will help you on the way to greatness, no doubt about that – no? Well, if you’re sure – better be GRYFFINDOR!’” (Rowling 121). This negotiation shows that, although much of Harry’s future and fate are already decided for him, he still has a good amount of control over what he chooses to make of his life as a wizard.

              The Sorting Hat tempts Harry with the promise of guaranteed greatness if he were to be in Slytherin, but Harry refuses and instead sets his life on the path towards fulfilling a prophecy of greatness as a Gryffindor. The hat recognizes Harry’s courage, bright mind, innate talent, and his “thirst to prove [himself]” (Rowling 121). This suggests that Harry still retains the power to choose whether to capitalize on his full potential or not. In this way he is free to make his own choices and have a say in his own fate. Harry’s interaction with the Sorting Hat demonstrates a choice between good and evil as well. The hat lets Harry express his preference for the nobler Gryffindor house over the dark and suspicious Slytherin house, which directly reflects Harry’s true character as an admirable, honorable young man. He wishes to surround himself with likeminded friends and classmates who will bring out the best in him. Even though Harry’s fate may have been handed to him from the very beginning, what he chooses to do with his life will be his own independent achievement.