Harry’s second year at Hogwarts is unsettled by attacks that leave students petrified. Rumours about the Chamber of Secrets turn suspicion toward Harry, especially when others discover he can speak to snakes. A mysterious diary offers a misleading account of the past.

The ideas beneath the story

The school’s history becomes a weapon when ideas about blood status determine who is considered worthy. Harry also fears that a resemblance to Voldemort means he is destined to become like him. The novel separates a person’s abilities from the decisions that give those abilities meaning.

A question to carry away

Who benefits when people accept an old prejudice without questioning it? This story makes that question part of a school mystery.

Plot outcome · Ending spoilers

The diary contains a young Tom Riddle, who has manipulated Ginny Weasley into opening the Chamber. Harry faces its basilisk, saves Ginny, and destroys the diary with a basilisk fang. He also helps free Dobby from the Malfoys.

Official book information ↗