Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Examine the ideas of destiny and free will as explored in the book.

Compare and contrast the characters of Harry and Voldemort. How do they together fulfill the archetype of good versus evil?

What motivates Voldemort to shed his birth name and adopt a new title? What effect does Dumbledore’s refusal to use this name have on Voldemort’s psyche?

Explain how Slughorn as a character highlights the fundamental differences between Harry and Voldemort.

Ron is described as an inconsistent Quidditch player whose performance is greatly affected by nerves. Where do you think Ron’s insecurity stems from? Where else do you see it play out in the book?

Examine Voldemort’s journey in the context of a self-fulfilling prophecy. How has Voldemort contributed to his potential downfall?

What are the different ways in which the idea of a mother’s love is addressed in the book?

Keeping in mind that the Harry Potter series is, among other things, a coming-of-age story, why do you think Dumbledore’s death is significant?