Today we’re Apparating in with the fourth episode of Podtrificus Totalus, a Harry Potter podcast done chapter by chapter, book by book.
This week we tackle chapter four of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, “The Keeper of the Keys.” Hagrid arrives to rescue Harry from the evil Dursleys and tells him the truth about his past, his parents, and Lord Voldemort in one of the most forward-moving yet mysterious chapters thus far. As we move through the chapters, we grow ever closer to Harry’s arrival at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and deeper in J.K. Rowling’s magical world. We also introduce a new segment on this episode, Spell of the Week, and answer more listener emails.
We make a number of references to outside sources and pop culture in this episode, which are listed below:
- Hagrid’s “beetle-black eyes” on Stack Exchange
- Napoleon Dynamite (briefly)
- Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
- Muggles on the Harry Potter Wiki
- Scooby Stacks
- Ultimate Unofficial Guide to the Mysteries of Harry Potter by Galadriel Waters (Ed. Astre Mithrandir; Published by Wizarding World Press in 2003)
- Hagar the Horrible by Chris and Dik Browne
- Rubeus Hagrid on the Harry Potter Wiki
- Incendium on the Harry Potter Wiki
We encourage our listeners to send emails to [email protected] correcting us, expanding on something we mentioned, asking questions, and sharing their experiences with the Harry Potter series. You can also interact with us through @podtrificus on Twitter, our Facebook page, Tumblr, or by leaving a comment below.
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Thanks for listening and we’ll see you again for 1.05, “Diagon Alley!” Have a magical day!
2 responses to “1.04 The Keeper of the Keys”
I’m a little late to the party, but I have just found you! I started reading the series as a full adult with a 13 year old and an infant. As not the usual demographic, I am enjoying your spin on things.
Hi Nancy! Thanks for joining us. I think the series has appeal for really all ages, and you’re able to examine the books from your unique perspective. I last read through the series after I graduated high school, and the difference between my read on them then versus me at 24 has been interesting! Please do share your thoughts on the books as you read through!