Blog #2 Neville's coping with Trauma throughout the series

            The theme of traumatic experience is very evident within the Harry Potter series in obvious ways, such as the death of Harry’s parents. However, as the reader continues the series, we learn about hidden traumas that happen to other characters, such as Neville Longbottom. From the beginning of the series, Neville is seen as more of an outcast in which many think of his magical ability to be that of a squib. Throughout the books, he’s looked at as a “misfit” that is often the brunt of many jokes made by Draco Malfoy or Professor Snape. Even his own grandmother would admit that he hasn’t lived up to the accomplishments of his parents. In the fifth book, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Neville proves to be a worthy wizard that successfully participates in Dumbledore’s Army as well as helping Harry fight the Death Eaters in the Department of Ministries.

            Along with these accomplishments, the reader also sees Neville’s background as we meet his parents, Alice and Frank Longbottom, in St. Mungo’s Hospital. Although previously unknown, Neville’s parents were tortured to insanity and therefore Neville has had to grow up without his parents. Knowing more about his background makes it easier for the reader to sympathize with Neville and the encounter with his parents in St. Mungo’s is eye opening and surprising. He’s very patient with his parents and it makes Ron, Hermione, and Harry commiserate with him, which creates an unbreakable bond. This information about Neville changed the series because Harry begins to realize that others have tough situations just like he does and that he is not alone in his coping.