
In chapter twelve, we finally see Harry's transition from a friend to a sibling. Though we do get the feeling that Ron and Harry are really good friends the deal is symbolically sealed with Mrs. Wesley's hand woven sweater that Harry receives over Christmas.
All the Weasley's get one for Christmas, and although Ron does not seem to be particularly keen about his, it is nonetheless part and parcel of being a Weasley. Harry by donning the sweater become more than just a friend he becomes the newest addition to the Weasley family. By wearing the sweater Harry is transformed from being superhero to a regular kid. Its interesting that Hermione does not get a Weasley sweater. This can be explained by the fact that she already has a family of her own or may be she is just not Weasley material!
The Weasley adoption of Harry is also clearly reflected by the Mirror of Erised. Harry looks into the mirror and sees his missing family- his deepest desire to be with his family and his parents. This desire is fulfilled to some extent by Ron and his family. It is not the same thing as being with his true family but it sure beats being part of the Dursleys!
I think it's fairly significant that the reason Harry gets a gift from Mrs. Weasley, a homespun package identical to her sons, is Ron writes to her and tells her Harry does not expect any gifts. Hermione, of course, is going home to her own family, so there's no reason for Ron's concern or Mrs. Weasley to pseudo-adopt her.
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