Describe the growth and maturation of Harry Potter throughout the novel. What experiences and insights contribute to his growth?

At the beginning of the book, Harry is an unimpressive figure: skinny, sloppy, isolated from his family, the constant victim of his cousin's bullying, and marked with a lightning-shaped scar on his forehead (the result of Voldemort's failed attempt to kill him during his infancy). After his discovery of his magical abilities and his introduction to the wizarding world and Hogwarts, Harry begins to grow in confidence, strength, and courage until he becomes a worthy protagonist, capable of facing off against the Dark Lord himself by the end of the book. Harry is particularly affected by the deaths of his parents and much of his behavior is informed by his loneliness and desire to avenge their wrongful deaths. Harry also distinguishes himself with his unexcepted brilliance at Quidditch, his loyalty to his friends, and his modesty, a trait is particularly surprising in the figure lauded as "the boy who lived" across the wizarding world. Much of his humility can be attributed to Professor Dumbledore's decision to place him in the Dursley household after the death of his parents, rather than force him to endure the constant attention of the wizarding world. Because of his background, Harry often views himself as an unexceptional character, which makes his achievements in the wizarding world all the more impressive.