Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone: Chapter 12 Summary
The Mirror of Erised
Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, titled “The Mirror of Erised” delves into the magical and emotional experiences Harry undergoes during the Christmas holidays at Hogwarts.
Researching Nicholas Flamel
Hogwarts is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with enchanted snow falling in the Great Hall and festive decorations throughout the castle.
Motivated by Hagrid’s slip about Nicholas Flamel in the previous chapter, Harry, Ron, and Hermione decide to research him in the library. They spend time searching through books but are unsuccessful in finding any information. When they question Hagrid again, he refuses to help and advices the trio to drop it.
Harry attempts to check the restricted section of the library but does not have permission to do so, and is therefore told off by Madam Pince.
Christmas at Hogwarts
Harry and Ron decide to stay at Hogwarts for the holidays, while Hermione goes home. The atmosphere is filled with excitement and holiday spirit.
On Christmas morning, Harry wakes up to find a pile of presents at the foot of his bed. Among his pile of gifts is an Invisibility Cloak that once belonged to his father. It is from an anonymous sender, accompanied by a note that says, “Use it well.”
Harry and Ron enjoy various holiday activities, including playing wizard chess, where Ron frequently wins due to his skill. The holidays are a joyful time, allowing Harry to experience a real Christmas for the first time.
The Invisibility Cloak
Harry and Ron use the Invisibility Cloak to sneak around the castle, relishing the thrill of exploring the. unseen. One night, Harry decides to explore on his own and uses the cloak to visit the restricted section of the library. While there, he accidentally triggers a magical alarm and is forced to flee.
Discovery of the Mirror of Erised
In his hurried escape, Harry stumbles upon an unused classroom where he discovers the Mirror of Erised. When he looks into the mirror, he sees his parents standing beside him.
This vision mesmerizes and saddens Harry, as it reflects his deepest desire to see his family.
Subsequent Visits to the Mirror
Harry becomes obsessed with the mirror and returns multiple times to see his parents. He brings Ron along, and when Ron looks into the mirror, he sees himself as the Head Boy and Quidditch Captain, reflecting his own deepest desires. The mirror captivates both boys, each seeing what they want most in the world.
Dumbledore’s Intervention
Eventually, Dumbledore finds Harry using the mirror. He explains to Harry that the Mirror of Erised shows the deepest desires of one’s heart.
Dumbledore warns Harry about the dangers of becoming obsessed with such visions and explains that the mirror will be moved to a new location soon to prevent further distractions.
He also advises Harry to focus on living his life rather than longing for what he cannot have.
The chapter ends with Harry leaving with a deeper understanding of the dangers of longing for what cannot be, feeling a mix of sadness and resolution.
