Vernon Dursley Character Analysis in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Harry’s uncle, Petunia’s husband, and Dudley’s father. Vernon and Petunia treat Harry horribly but are also afraid of Harry because they worry that he will use magic on them. When Vernon realizes that Harry is not allowed to do magic outside of school, Vernon cruelly imprisons him in his room and nearly starves him.

Vernon Dursley Character Timeline in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

The timeline below shows where the character Vernon Dursley appears in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

Information, Rumors, and Fear Theme Icon

At breakfast on Harry’s twelfth birthday, Harry’s uncle, Vernon, scolds Harry because his owl, Hedwig, woke him up with her screeching. Vernon insists on... (full context)

Vernon and Petunia are hosting an important business dinner that night for a couple named the... (full context)

Vernon, hearing this beating, starts to climb the stairs. Harry shuts Dobby in a closet. Vernon... (full context)

Vernon rushes into the kitchen and sees Harry covered in frosting. He apologizes to the Masons,... (full context)

Rules, Rebellion, and Doing the Right Thing Theme Icon

Vernon, who reads the letter as well, is livid that Harry didn’t tell them he couldn’t... (full context)

...out of the window and load up all of Harry’s things for school, waking up Vernon in the process. Vernon tries to grab Harry as he piles into the car, but... (full context)