Harry Potter

Background
Prior to the publication of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, J.K. Rowling hinted that the
fourth Harry Potter book would have darker tones, images, and plots than previous books in the
saga. She also suggested that the fourth book would be pivotal by providing more information
about Harry's parents, circumstances concerning their murders, and their enemies. Rowling fulfilled
her predictions by explaining aspects of the history of wizardry and the rules governing the wizard
world, such as why technology is absent from Hogwarts, and by offering readers a glimpse into
Lord Voldemort's macabre environment and point of view, which are crucial to balance the
predominant goodness of the usual setting and viewpoint of the earlier Harry Potter books. Also,
by introducing characters from two rival wizard scho...