Ch. 1Tom the Little Angel
Key Plot Points & Events
- The story is set on Christmas Eve, 1927, and narrates the birth of Tom Marvolo Riddle (later known as Lord Voldemort) in heavy snow.
- Tom, now three years old, lives in Wool's Orphanage and is cared for by the kind old Headmaster.
- The Headmaster tells Tom that his mother, Merope Gaunt, loved him dearly and became a 'Taurus in the sky' after her death.
Character Developments
- Tom: A well-behaved, sensible, and innocent child who loves his mother and the Headmaster. He is curious about his mother's love and hopes to understand it someday.
- The Headmaster: A kind, benevolent woman who secretly shares her food with others and cares deeply for Tom. She wishes for Tom to maintain his pure soul.
Significant Themes
- Love: Tom's understanding of love is limited, but he knows his mother loved him. The Headmaster's love and care for Tom are also prominent.
- Loss & Abandonment: Tom feels abandoned by his mother and wonders if she didn't like him. The Headmaster's loss of Tom's mother is also implied.
- Innocence & Purity: Tom's innocence and purity are emphasized, with the Headmaster praying for him to maintain these qualities.
Character Interactions
- Tom interacts with the Headmaster, showing affection and trust towards her. He shares his fears and questions about his mother with her.
- The Headmaster interacts with Tom with love and care, sharing stories about Tom's mother and wishing the best for him.
- Tom's interactions with other characters (Mrs. Cole, other children) are implied to be negative, as he likes the Headmaster the most.