Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone: Chapter 17 Summary.
The Man with Two Faces
Chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, titled “The Man with Two Faces,” deals with Harry’s confrontation with the true villain seeking the Sorcerer’s Stone and the conclusion of his first year.
Entering the Final Chamber
Harry enters the final chamber and is shocked to find Professor Quirrell instead of Snape.
Quirrell explains that he has been serving Voldemort all along, while Snape is innocent. He also tells him that Snape has been trying to protect Harry all year, which surprises Harry.
Quirrel reveals that it was he who let the troll in during the feast. He also reveals that it was not Snape but himself who jinxed Harry’s broom during the Quidditch match. Snape was merely trying to protect Harry by using a countercurse.
Seeing Harry’s confusion, Quirrel clarifies that Snape does hate Harry indeed, but for different reasons. He hates Harry because his father, James Potter, was Snape’s biggest rival during his time at Hogwarts.
Quirrell also reveals the Mirror of Erised in the room, which is the key to finding the Stone. He tries to extract the stone from the mirror but seems to get nowhere.
The Mirror of Erised
Quirrel asks his ‘master’ for advice, and to Harry’s horror, a voice answers him. Although not his own, it seems to come from Quirrel himself, telling him to “Use the boy“
Quirrell forces Harry to look into the Mirror of Erised, hoping Harry can retrieve the Stone. As Harry looks into the mirror, he sees himself holding the Stone and then feels it drop into his pocket.
Harry lies to Quirrel about seeing the stone in the mirror, but the voice catches his lie.
Encounter with Voldemort
Unwrapping his turban, Quirrell reveals Voldemort’s presence. His appearance is terrifying, snakelike, and ghostly. He speaks to Harry from the back of Quirrell’s head.
Voldemort asks Harry to surrender, and talks about how he killed Harry’s parents. Although terrified beyond his wits, Harry tries his best to argue.
Sensing that the conversation is going nowhere, Voldemort commands Quirrell to seize the Stone from Harry
Confrontation and Escape
Quirrell attempts to take the Stone from Harry, but for reasons unknown, Harry’s touch burns him. A fierce struggle ensues, with Harry holding onto Quirrell and causing him immense pain. However, Harry also experiences a needle-sharp pain in his scar, almost like his head would split at any moment. The intensity of the struggle is palpable, as Harry fights to keep the Stone out of Voldemort’s hands.
Eventually, the pain is too much for Harry to handle, and he loses consciousness. However, Dumbledore arrives at this particular instant and saves Harry.
Resolution in the Hospital Wing
Harry wakes up in the hospital wing, where Dumbledore provides comforting explanations.
Dumbledore tells Harry that the Stone has been destroyed to prevent further danger. He explains that his mother’s sacrifice acts as protection against Voldemort, which is why Quirrel could not touch Harry.
They also discuss Snape’s role, with Dumbledore revealing that Snape was protecting Harry due to a debt he owed Harry’s father. James once saved Snape’s life, and he never got to repay the debt.
Harry is also visited by Hagrid, Hermione, and Ron, who are relieved to see him awake. Hagrid is especially emotional, apologizing for inadvertently helping Voldemort and bringing Harry a photo album of his parents. Their support and camaraderie provide Harry with comfort and a sense of belonging.
End of the School Year and House Cup
At the end-of-year feast, Dumbledore awards last-minute points to Harry, Hermione, Ron, and Neville for their bravery and intellect, securing Gryffindor’s victory in the House Cup.
The House of Gryffindor erupts in celebration, marking a triumphant end to a year filled with challenges and danger. The bravery of the four friends is celebrated, highlighting the themes of friendship and courage.
The chapter ends with Harry looking forward to returning to the Dursleys for the summer, knowing they don’t know he cannot use magic at home. The resolution of the year’s events and the destruction of the Stone set the stage for future adventures and challenges. Harry is ready to face whatever comes next, strengthened by his friendships, and the knowledge that he has a place where he truly belongs.
