Welcome to Gaia! ::

It would be a serious understatement to say that Harry has a lot of drama in his life. From the very beginning with his abusive uncle and aunt, the death of his parents, and his strange powers Harry has plenty to deal with before he even discovers his wizard identity. He evetually discovers the truth about his parents death, that he is famous, and a brand new mystery: how did he defeat Voldemort as a child? A series of life-threatening and life-changing events ensue, he witnesses many horrors and watches friends die.

My question is: why isn't Harry more traumatized? Surely most people would come out of his situation with some serious psychological damage, right? Is there some wizardly mental strength we're unaware of? Is it simply a matter of plot and the telling of a good story? Did JK overlook this factor? Granted, we do witness a lot of anguish in Harry but I think his reactions are less serious than I would expect given the situation. But maybe I'm underestimating people and wizards. You tell me smile

Discuss:

• Is Harry's mental state unrealistic?
  
• Why do you think JK chose to portray him this way?
  
• Any unusual instance related to the topic you've noticed in the books.