OoP: Chapter 1 question

[snufflesnbeakie]

No: HPFGUIDX 64068

Lindsey wrote: > 
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> I don't think this has been mentioned yet and if it has I'm sorry 
to 
> bring it back up. That being said, what I am actually puzzeled 
about 
> is the shock that Vernon receives after he grabs Harry in the 
first 
> chapter. The "crack" that is heard prior to this scene is later 
> revealed to be Mundungus apparating to pursue his business 
> opportunities. The cat of course, bolts to warn Ms. Figg leaving 
> Harry completely alone. After Vernon grabs a hold of Harry, he is 
> shocked by some force and I believe Harry later says that he 
thought 
> a wizard was there with him. How could a wizard of shocked Vernon 
if 
> Mundungus, the only one on duty, was already gone? Was that 
Harry's 
> anger being released? Harry did not use his wand or mutter any 
> spells. Maybe it was just a reaction to protect himself like the 
> time his hair regrew or his jumping amazing heights when he was 
> chased by Dudley's gang (before his Hogwarts years). Perhaps I 
> misinterpreted it. Any ideas?
> 
> Lindsey, who is trying to mourn the loss of her fav. character


Hi Lindsey,

My initial thought was that the shock that Uncle Vernon receives is 
an illustration of Dumbledore's Ancient Magic that protects Harry at 
Privet Drive.  Sure Dudley has had his bullying escapades, but Uncle 
Vernon actually "chokes" Harry - presenting what I would call a more 
formidable threat, thus he was repelled.  I know that this charm is 
mainly in place because of Voldemort, but if it didn't apply to all, 
why wouldn't any Death Eater be able to go there and do Voldemort's 
bidding?  I also think that the wizard's presence that Harry 
detected was the ever-watchful eye of Dumbledore.  I think he sees 
far more than we realize.  

Beth