Although not the first character who comes to mind when the thought an "epic hero" is mentioned, Harry Potter has many of the qualities necessary for the job. Already the star of five books, Harry has managed to encounter many out of the ordinary situations, and handled them like the epic heroes depicted in earlier British literature. Harry Potter, is a modern character who puts a new twist on the idea of an epic hero. In comparison to the traditional epic heroes, there are many differences, but also many similarities. Harry possesses the super-human qualities that are a necessity for being considered an epic hero, but the qualities he has are evolved versions of those the traditional heroes posses. In the Harry Potter books, Harry belongs to Gryffindor, which is named after Godric Gryffindor, one of the greatest wizards to ever have lived. J.K. Rowling has said that there is a connection between Godric Gryffindor and Godric's Hollow. In Godric's Hollow, St. Godric has the ability to know the events that occur hundreds or thousands of miles away. Harry also possesses this ability. He has numerous dreams in which he demonstrates his ability to know of events occurring far away from him. Harry also has the gift of prophecy, which becomes apparent in a dream about Professor Quirrell's turban (before he becomes aware that Voldemort is underneath it), he hears a cold laugh and sees a green light.
Another important quality needed for Harry to be an epic hero is bravery. Harry proves his bravery multiple times in each book. It has been typical for epic heroes to be braver than everyone else they encounter. Harry is capable of being brave in even the toughest situations. In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry travels into a deep cave in order to get information from a large spider, and even though the spiders try to eat both Harry and Ron, Harry is able to keep his cool and bring himself and his friend to safety.
