Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

by

J. K. Rowling, Jack Thorne, and John Tiffany

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Part 1, Act 2, Scene 5 Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
The scene shifts, and Harry stands alone in the forest looking for Albus and Scorpius. He hears hooves, and suddenly Bane the centaur emerges. Bane criticizes Harry for trespassing on the centaurs’ land, but Harry explains that needs help finding his son Albus. Bane explains that he has seen Albus in the movements of the stars, and there is a black cloud around him that may endanger everyone. He says that Harry will find Albus again, but that Harry may lose his son forever. Bane leaves, and Harry cries out for Albus with new desperation.
Bane’s exchange with Harry shows Harry’s deep love and care for his son. But it also suggests that while Harry may be able to find Albus, his lack of understanding of his son puts him at risk of losing Albus completely. Bane’s vague prophecy only compounds Harry’s tendency to misunderstand his son as he struggles with what he needs—getting Albus back and protecting him—rather than what Albus needs, which is to have a father who understands him.
Themes
Parenthood Theme Icon