Vladimir Propp TheoryPropp found that all the characters could be resolved into 7 broad character functions;

1. The hero [AKA victim/seeker/paladin/winner, reacts to the donor, weds the princess2. The villain (struggles against the hero)3. The donor (prepares the hero or gives the hero some magical object)4. The (magical) helper (helps the hero in the quest)5. The princess (person the hero marries, often sought for during the narrative)6. The false hero (perceived as good character in beginning but emerges as evil)7. The dispatcher (character who makes the lack known and sends the hero off)

The HeroHarry Potter, the victim who becomes the hero in the Harry Potter series. Begins with Harry being victimised and bullied by his aunt and uncle. Parents killed by Villain when he was younger. Then approached and receives information from the donor which gives him a fighting chance

The VillainThe bad guy, aims to kill Harry after he managed to live when he attempted to murder the whole family due to the prophecy made saying that Voldemort would be defeated by a boy born at the end of July, which Voldemort took to mean Harry

The DonorHagrid Introduces Harry to the wizarding world and helps him get his first wand

The HelperTwo of Harry's friends that help him on his quest to defeat the bad guy. Aiding him in everyway possible.

The PrincessAlthough not a conventional princess, she ends up wedding the hero. She is a character who has been rescued.

False HeroThe figure who takes credit for the hero’s actions or tries to marry the princess.

The DispatcherThe character invites the hero to eliminate the evil. In this story Dumbledore makes aware to the hero (Harry) that evil forces are at work.