[js1138]

However, Riddle makes all the wrong choices, out of an evil heart, and Harry makes mostly right ones, out of love for friends and under the guidance of wise mentors - despite the fact that he is just as angry about things as Riddle (the heart is desperately wicked).

There are a number of characters from dysfunctional family backgrounds.

Dumbledore, whose father murdered three teenagers for harming his daughter, and who may have accidentally killed his sister.

Snape, whose father and mother fought continuously and lived in poverty.

Harry, whose parents were murdered and who grew up with people who hated him.

Tom Riddle, an orphan from an inbred, insane, violent family.

Neville, whose parents were tortured into insanity, and who was raised by a grandmother who belittled his intelligence and talent.

Ron, The youngest and least promising son, whose parents wanted a daughter.

Hermione, whose parents were dentists.

All these people struggled with their origins, and most turned out OK because they chose to be decent people. Tom was offered the same opportunities, but chose a life of vengeance.

[Ingtar]

Tom was offered the same opportunities, but chose a life of vengeance.

I thought is was rather touching that Harry offers Tom one last chance at redemption, but Tom is so far gone he basically destroys himself rather than listen.

[Tax-chick]

Hermione, whose parents were dentists.

It appears you've had the same sort of experience with dentists that I have ...

[The Blitherer]

Hermione, whose parents were dentists.

Brilliant!

Very Rowling-esque humor, might I add.

[Durus]

"Dumbledore, whose father murdered three teenagers for harming his daughter...".

They raped his daughter and drove her insane. It sounds like justice to me.

[Dianna]

I am way late to this particular party but I am ROFL-ing at your post.

There are a number of characters from dysfunctional family backgrounds.

Hermione, whose parents were dentists.

Yeah, you've gotta watch out for those dentists!