Study Guide for

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
~ the film ~

Things to consider when the lights come up...

• Harry Potter and his friends are confronted by Fluffy, a three-headed dog, as he begins his journey to the underworld. Explore the Orphic myth of Orpheus' confrontation with Cerberus.
• The Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris contains works original works written by Nicolas Flamel and copied in his own hand. Discover this French Alchemist for yourself.
• Hermione informs Harry and Ron that Flamel, the discoverer of the philosopher's stone, celebrated his 665th birthday last year. What significance can be attributed to his age?
• We meet Voldemort drinking the blood of a unicorn, a legendary animal known for its purity. Research the legend of immortality achieved through the drinking of blood.
• Isn't it interesting that Voldemort's name contains the Latin root word for death?
• The trio find that they must mastermind of the chess game as well as participate in it. Ron assumed the role of a knight, Hermione the queen, and Harry became the bishop who checkmated the king. Relate this to the metaphysical concept of being a player in the game of life.
• Voldemort brings to life a Templar concept — that of a talking head. What can you uncover about this mysterious symbol?

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