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[edit] Chapters

Chapter 1: Dudley Demented

Chapter 2: A Peck of Owls

Chapter 3: The Advance Guard

Chapter 4: Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place

Chapter 5: The Order of the Phoenix

Chapter 6: The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black

Chapter 7: The Ministry of Magic

Chapter 8: The Hearing

Chapter 9: The Woes of Mrs. Weasley

Chapter 10: Luna Lovegood

Chapter 11: The Sorting Hat's New Song

Chapter 12: Professor Umbridge

Chapter 13: Detention with Dolores

Chapter 14: Percy and Padfoot

Chapter 15: The Hogwarts High Inquisitor

Chapter 16: In the Hog's Head

Chapter 17: Educational Decree Number Twenty-Four

Chapter 18: Dumbledore's Army

Chapter 19: The Lion and the Serpent

Chapter 20: Hagrid's Tale

Chapter 21: The Eye of the Snake

Chapter 22: St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries

Chapter 23: Christmas on the Closed Ward

Chapter 24: Occlumency

Chapter 25: The Beetle at Bay

Chapter 26: Seen and Unforeseen

Chapter 27: The Centaur and the Sneak

Chapter 28: Snape's Worst Memory

Chapter 29: Careers Advice

Chapter 30: Grawp

Chapter 31: O.W.L.s

Chapter 32: Out of the Fire

Chapter 33: Fight and Flight

Chapter 34: The Department of Mysteries

Chapter 35: Beyond the Veil

Chapter 36: The Only One He Ever Feared

Chapter 37: The Lost Prophecy

Chapter 38: The Second War Begins

[edit] Overview

The fifth book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is told from the viewpoint of the now fifteen-year-old Harry.

This is possibly the darkest book in the Harry Potter series, even darker then the final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Surprisingly, perhaps, it is not the return of Voldemort and his Death Eaters that give this book its power, for in fact they do very little during this year. Its grimness is the multiplicity of enemies facing Harry, as the Ministry of Magic, headed by Cornelius Fudge, has also set itself against Harry and Dumbledore. Additionally, Harry must deal with a new nemesis and possibly the series' most hated character, Dolores Umbridge, a petty Ministry bureaucrat.

Apart from the usual magic, events at Hogwarts School, and the frustrating Dursleys, this book includes the resurrection of the Order of the Phoenix, a group dedicated to Lord Voldemort's downfall, and Voldemort openly returning. Darker and more mature than the preceding entries in the series, this book shows Harry coping with loss and dealing with adversity, while growing in maturity and ability.

While the book appears daunting at 766 pages (Bloomsbury / Raincoast edition), it is set in somewhat larger type than the first three volumes. If set in the same type as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, it would be 655 pages (approximately) to 223 for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. At this, though, it is still the largest of the seven volumes.

[edit] Book Highlights

• New places visited: Grimmauld Place, the Ministry of Magic, St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries, The Room of Requirement
• Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher: Dolores Umbridge
• Title refers to: The Order of the Phoenix

Chapter 1: Dudley Demented

[edit] Synopsis

Harry spends another dreadful summer with Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon. He is angry and frustrated that he has had little communication with either Ron or Hermione, and feeling isolated and cut off, is desperate for any information about Voldemort and the Wizarding world. One day, he hides in the Dursleys' flower bed under the living room window so he can overhear the Muggle news on TV. He is listening for any reports of unexplained events that, as a wizard, he would recognize as being caused by Dark magic. Hearing a cracking noise that he recognizes as someone Disapparating, Harry jumps up, wand at the ready, but bumps his head on the window frame, giving away his presence. An argument ensues with Uncle Vernon, but Harry leaves to investigate the noise. He encounters Dudley with his motley friends in the park. Harry, knowing that Dudley fears his magical powers, restrains himself from taunting him. After Dudley's companions leave, he and Harry head back to Privet Drive. As they reach an alley, it suddenly becomes dark and cold, and they are attacked by Dementors. Harry repels the Dementors with a Patronus Charm. However, Dudley is chilled to the bone and later becomes nauseous. Mrs. Figg (Harry's neighbour) appears on the scene, and amazingly, she is not at all surprised to see Harry's magic wand, ordering him not to put it away.

[edit] Analysis

Readers can see how lonely Harry is at his erstwhile relatives' home and how unhappy he has always been there. He is trapped inside a world in which he no longer belongs, nor wants to be part of, but Professor Dumbledore has apparently decreed that he must endure living there each summer. We don't, as yet, know why, but at the end of the previous book, Ron had said that Dumbledore had vetoed Mrs. Weasley's invitation to have Harry spend the entire summer at the Burrow. Once again, the Dursleys show how little they care for their nephew's needs. However, they do treat him better than they used to, and, like Dudley, have come to fear Harry's magical powers. While Harry and the Dursleys' relationship remains unchanged, there has been a gradual shift in power within the household, seen as far back as the first book, when Harry was given Dudley's "extra" bedroom and no longer had to sleep in the cupboard under the stairs. While Harry would never use magic against his relatives, he knows they fear his increasing magical abilities, and this has progressively granted him some bargaining leverage.

Harry is hungry for information about the Wizarding world that he has been cut off from. In the previous book, he witnessed Voldemort's resurrection, and he knows, perhaps as no other excepting Dumbledore, how much evil has returned. However, it seems that Harry is deliberately being denied information, making him angry and frustrated. While Hagrid was sent on a mission at the end of the last book and is likely unable to write, it seems that Ron and Hermione are deliberately withholding important details from their letters, leaving Harry feeling abandoned.

Harry has been carefully watching for any signs that Voldemort's activity restarted, not only in the Wizarding realm but in the Muggle world, which is why he eagerly listens for any news. Harry is aware that Voldemort considers Muggles unworthy of preservation. The Dementor attack is a sign that Voldemort is becoming active, and it actually helps relieve Harry's anger and frustration by reestablishing his ties to the magical world. Discovering that batty old Mrs. Figg possesses knowledge about Wizards delivers Harry a powerful shock, given the vacuum he has been forced to stay in. There have been clues that Mrs. Figg is connected to the Wizarding world since the first book, such as the strange odors emanating from her kitchen and her unusual cats, although Harry was too young and inexperienced a wizard to have recognized them for what they were.

The attack also brings another character into focus: Dudley. Being a Muggle, he should have been unaware and largely unaffected by the Dementors' presence; however, he was obviously affected by them, just as they were able to detect him. This could indicate that Dudley possibly has some latent magical ability.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. How is Dudley affected by the Dementors?
2. Why is Harry so intent on listening to the Muggle news?
3. How has Harry's relationship with the Dursleys changed? What accounts for this?
4. Why would Harry expect to hear news about the Wizarding world reported on Muggle TV?

[edit] Further Study

1. How does Mrs. Figg know about the Wizarding world?
2. Why do letters from Harry's friends contain so little information about the Wizard world?
3. Why would Dudley, a Muggle who should be unaware of a Dementor's presence, be so affected by them? Why would a Dementor attack him along with Harry?
4. Who could have sent the Dementors to Privet Drive and why?

[edit] Greater Picture

Mrs. Figg's connection to the Wizarding world was mentioned at the end of the previous book, though it is very carefully formed so as to not attract attention. We never know Mrs. Figg's first name, even the Dursleys call her "old Mrs. Figg", and the complexity of her first name (Arabella) seems to be carefully selected so as to overshadow her last name when Dumbledore mentions it. We will find out that Mrs. Figg is an associate of Dumbledore's and a member of the Order of the Phoenix from Voldemort's first rise to power, and has been charged with watching over Harry since he was first left at Privet Drive.

Slightly connected to this is Dumbledore's insistence that Harry spend time at Privet Drive each summer. Dumbledore has set protective spells on Harry and the house, based on the protection given Harry when his mother died to save him. That protection will only hold so long as Harry is sheltered by his mother's blood, which is to say as long as his home is the place where one of his mothers' close blood relatives lives. If he stops being able to call Privet Drive home, or reaches the age of majority, that protection will cease. Harry's returning each summer is sufficient to keep Privet Drive his home. While this is Harry's strongest protection, Dumbledore never has only one string to his bow, and has arranged for Harry to be watched and guarded by other means, including Mrs. Figg.

Harry is correct in his assumption that Ron and Hermione are deliberately telling him little in their letters. This is at Dumbledore's orders, though why Dumbledore has said that Harry is to remain unknowing is never fully revealed. It is possible that, even at this early stage, Dumbledore worries that Voldemort might be aware of the linkage between Harry's mind and his own, and be trying to minimize the possible damage should Voldemort snoop in Harry's mind. Dumbledore is aware that, even before Voldemort re-embodied himself, there were two episodes where Harry apparently received clear images from Voldemort's mind.

While we never do find out quite why the Dementors were there, we do learn that they were sent by Dolores Umbridge, who we will meet a little later in this book. The only reason Umbridge gives for sending the Dementors is that "something had to be done", though she remains mute on why something had to be done, and why Dementors were the reasonable choice for that something.

Dudley should have been unaffected by the Dementors. In the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, it is stated that Muggles are unable to perceive Dementors, and the author has said that Squibs are also unable to see them. According to Rowling, in an interview given before publication of the third book, a character, previously believed to be a Muggle would develop magical abilities unexpectedly late in life ("late" meaning after age 11 or so), and that it would not be Aunt Petunia. Although this was expected to happen in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Rowling later decided to omit this from the storyline. However, if Dudley is able to perceive Dementors, it is possible he has other latent magical abilities, and he may be the character Rowling was referring to.

Chapter 2: A Peck of Owls

[edit] Synopsis

As Harry struggles to comprehend the Dementor attack and Arabella Figg's enigmatic announcement, Mrs. Figg assumes control of the situation. She reveals that she is a Squib and that she has long been in contact with Albus Dumbledore. In her frustration with the situation, she tells Harry that he has been followed all summer; Mundungus Fletcher was supposed to be on duty but left early. As the two struggle to move Dudley to the house, Mundungus reappears. Mrs. Figg berates him, hitting him with her shopping bag, and sends him off to inform Dumbledore about what has happened. Mrs. Figg and Harry reach Harry's front door. Mrs. Figg now leaves to await Dumbledore's orders, leaving Harry to face the Dursleys alone.

While Vernon and Petunia Dursley confront him about their now-ill son, Harry receives a letter from the Ministry of Magic expelling him from Hogwarts and saying his wand will shortly be destroyed. Harry decides that his only option is to become a fugitive, but before he can get past Uncle Vernon, another owl letter arrives from Arthur Weasley saying to stay in his uncle's house, not let Ministry representatives break his wand, and not to use magic again; Dumbledore is straightening things out. Harry sits at the kitchen table, trying to explain what happened and insisting that it was Dementors who use magic against Dudley. When Uncle Vernon asks what Dementors are, Aunt Petunia responds, "they are the guards of the Wizard prison, Azkaban."

Petunia's shocking revelation stuns everyone, including Petunia, who belatedly covers her mouth, as if realizing she had uttered something horribly obscene. As Harry sits in Aunt Petunia's antiseptic kitchen answering questions about the Wizarding world, another owl arrives from Mr. Weasley, and one from Sirius, briefly telling Harry that the situation is being sorted out. Finally, a second owl from the Ministry of Magic arrives revoking his expulsion and wand destruction. Harry's fate now rests on a hearing scheduled for "9 A.M. on August 12th."

When Harry says Lord Voldemort has returned, Uncle Vernon, recognizing the danger while they house Harry, demands he leave. However, this is interrupted by one final owl carrying a Howler—surprisingly, for Petunia Dursley. A menacing voice reverberates throughout the kitchen: "REMEMBER MY LAST, PETUNIA!" Petunia quickly overrides her husband, insisting that Harry remain at their house, but sending him to bed immediately.

[edit] Analysis

Even the unsophisticated reader, reading the series for entertainment, will be left with questions after this chapter. The two largest, unanswered questions are: How did Petunia learn about Dementors, and given that she knows that much, what else does she know about the Wizarding world that she hasn't told us? And the Howler was sent by someone who not only had a reasonable idea of what was happening in the house, probably based on knowledge of Petunia and Vernon's likely reactions, but also holds some sort of power over Petunia, seeing how quickly she changed her mind when the Howler uttered its four words; who could that be? While we can speculate on those questions, the true answers will not be given to us until later in the series.

Petunia's explanation about Dementors and Azkaban not only shocks her family, but shows she knows far more about the wizarding world than she has ever admitted. Based largely on this, Harry leaps to the conclusion that Dumbledore sent her the Howler; this is fueled largely by wishful thinking, as Harry has been hoping for a communication from Dumbledore all summer without receiving anything. However, if the Howler is from Dumbledore, it implies that Petunia has had more contact with him than has yet been revealed; although Harry may be unaware, this is hardly surprising as Petunia, being Harry's legal guardian, would need to be informed regarding any event affecting her nephew, regardless what her personal feelings are toward him.

That Harry would be expelled from school and have his wand broken, without an official inquiry and for such a minor offense, indicates the Ministry of Magic probably has some ulterior motive in moving so quickly against him. Obviously, others (apparently including Dumbledore) have intervened on his behalf to prevent this, and a hearing has been scheduled to allow Harry to present his side. As Harry often does, his first response to a difficult situation is to run away or isolate himself, rather than attempt to find a solution or seek help from others. Luckily, in this case, he is overridden by instructions from Arthur Weasley.

Although Harry has been protected from Voldemort since infancy by spells Dumbledore cast that reinforce the protection created by his mother's death, Dumbledore has taken additional precautions to ensure Harry's safety. Arabella Figg, a squib, has apparently been keeping a close eye on Harry since he came to live with the Dursleys. She explains that she has been rather mean to him because she knows if his aunt and uncle thinks he has a friend, they would not have allowed her to occasionally watch him. No doubt there are others who have also been watching Harry when he stays with the Dursleys.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Who or what are 'Squibs'?
2. How does Petunia know about Dementors and Azkaban prison?
3. Why does Uncle Vernon order Harry to leave the house? Who overrules him and why?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why would the Ministry of Magic want to break Harry's wand and expel him from Hogwarts without an official inquiry?
2. Who sent Petunia the Howler? What does its message say and what might it mean?
3. Why does Petunia react so strongly to the Howler?

[edit] Greater Picture

Dumbledore mentions later in the book that the Howler was, as Harry surmised, from him. This, in association with comments Dumbledore makes in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, would indicate he has kept a closer eye on the Dursley household than we have, to date, realized. Mrs. Figg's revelation that the house is being watched, at Dumbledore's instructions, would account for some of the knowledge he has of the Dursleys, but the sort of observation that Mrs. Figg would be capable of likely would not include sufficient detail to allow Dumbledore to understand the need for a Howler at that specific time.

It is perhaps interesting that Dumbledore's Howler says "Remember my last" instead of "Remember my letter." The implication here is that there have been more letters than the single one which we have seen, left with Harry on the doorstep at the beginning of the series. It is not until the final book of the series that we learn that Dumbledore had written a letter to Petunia earlier, refusing her entry into Hogwarts. We learn at the same time that much of Petunia's understanding of the Wizarding world actually comes, not from Harry's father, as we would expect given her apparent dislike of "that dreadful boy", but Severus Snape, who at the time was telling Lily Evans, Petunia's sister and later Harry's mother, what to expect in the Wizarding world.

Chapter 3: The Advance Guard

[edit] Synopsis

Harry immediately writes letters to Sirius, Hermione, and Ron. He instructs Hedwig to get detailed replies from each. Frustration overwhelms him: he has no idea what is happening in the wizarding world and, cut off, feels he is being treated like a "naughty child" by Arthur Weasley, Dumbledore, and Sirius, who sent instructions. An annoyed Harry remains locked in his room for the next three days.

On the third day, Uncle Vernon, Petunia, and Dudley leave to attend an award ceremony for the best kept lawn in England. Harry is ordered to stay in his room and not steal food or touch their possessions. Uncle Vernon leaves, locking the door behind him. Later, as Harry ponders his lack of feeling about all this, he hears a crash in the kitchen. Grabbing his wand, he is startled when the door clicks open. He cautiously advances to the stairs where nine witches and wizards, including the real Mad-Eye Moody and Remus Lupin greet him.

Harry is being taken from the Dursleys', and he returns upstairs with Nymphadora Tonks to pack. Tonks curiously changes her appearance, explaining that she is a Metamorphmagus and (impressing Harry) an Auror.

Lupin leaves a note for the Dursleys, then the entire group heads outside. Because Harry cannot yet apparate, they mount broomsticks and begin a long, cold flight. They finally descend in what appears to be a lower-class neighborhood. Moody shows Harry a scrap of paper which reads: "The headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix may be found at Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place, London."

[edit] Analysis

Harry has become increasingly upset and frustrated at being isolated, both physically and mentally, from his friends and the wizarding world. Clearly, someone is preventing him receiving detailed information, which leaves Harry feeling that he is being treated like a small, untrustworthy child. This is especially galling to him as, having fought Lord Voldemort twice successfully, and certainly being capable of understanding the overall situation, he feels as though he should be treated as an adult. However, even though Harry is on the verge of adulthood, we have seen that he sometimes acts immaturely and impulsively, often reacting in anger and frustration rather than logically evaluating what the actual circumstances may be and taking appropriate action. In particular, we note from the previous chapter that, on being informed that he was in trouble with the Ministry for underage use of magic, his impulse again was to run away.

The arrival of the Advance Guard tells us several things. First, there is the fact that the number of wizards that have come to collect Harry is so large. This is another indication of Harry's fame in the Wizarding world; Harry is surprised by the number because he has not internalized his own celebrity status. We are introduced for the first time to the true Mad-Eye Moody, and are exposed to the level of paranoia that he works under; we also find that even the other Aurors find his planned precautions to be excessive. Finally, their appearance is a clear indicator that Harry has not been forgotten, is not being ignored, but has simply been "put on ice," kept in his safe-house until there was another place to keep him safe. We as yet have no grounds to speculate why Harry was not told of these plans for his removal from Uncle Vernon's house, or for that matter, why he has been kept in the dark on all matters occurring in the Magical world, since he left Hogwarts. One thing we can see quite clearly is Harry's relief and excitement at being able to rejoin the Magical world, even if, as Moody seems to expect, it puts him in more danger.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why is Harry so frustrated?
2. What is a Metamorphmagus?
3. Why did so many people come to get Harry?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why has Harry been denied information about Voldemort and what is happening in the Wizard world?

[edit] Greater Picture

We will find out shortly that it is at Dumbledore's bidding that Harry has been kept uninformed. Part of this is due to Dumbledore's awareness of the link between Harry and Voldemort, and his understanding of what exactly it is. In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Dumbledore learned that Voldemort had made at least one Horcrux, and was alarmed to find that the Horcrux had been designed as a weapon, and used as one, rather than being kept safely hidden. From this, Dumbledore suspected that Voldemort had created multiple Horcruxes, a suspicion that was confirmed by Voldemort's saying that he had "gone further along the road to immortality than any other wizard." Eventually, Dumbledore will guess that the link between Harry and Voldemort is actually a soul fragment that had been torn away from Voldemort and had adhered to Harry's soul; whether he already has guessed this, or is simply aware of the existence of the link at this point is uncertain. In any event, Dumbledore's reasoning for keeping Harry uninformed is largely to decrease the chance that Voldemort would learn of the plans against him through that link.

Additionally, the adult Wizards, notably Dumbledore and, to a lesser extent, Mrs. Weasley, have withheld information from Harry because they believe it could put him, and also his peers, in jeopardy by making them easy targets for Death Eaters. The less Harry knows for now, the safer he is.

Chapter 4: Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place

[edit] Synopsis

Mad-Eye Moody instructs Harry to focus on the paper he has just been shown. When he does, a dilapidated-looking house materializes, and the Advance Guard ushers him in. The dark interior is as rundown and shabby as the outside. They are welcomed by Molly Weasley, who sends Harry upstairs to where Ron and Hermione are while the adults conduct a meeting. Harry's friends warmly greet him, though he is still upset that they withheld information; seeing Hedwig's peck marks on their hands pacifies him somewhat. Ron and Hermione insist Dumbledore swore them to secrecy, but that does not stop Harry from shouting his frustration at them. When he finally calms down, he begins asking questions.

Ron and Hermione identify the house as the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix, a secret society founded by Dumbledore to combat Lord Voldemort. As they have been barred from any meetings, Ron and Hermione have little more information to offer. Instead, they have been busy cleaning the house. George, Fred, and Ginny Weasley enter the room. During the conversation, they reveal that Percy Weasley has become estranged from the family. He was promoted to a prestigious position in the Ministry of Magic, which is surprising considering his involvement in the events concerning his former boss, Mr. Crouch (in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire). When Arthur Weasley suggested he was promoted so he could spy on the Weasley family, a fight erupted, ending with Percy moving to London. Also, The Daily Prophet has been using Harry as a "standing joke" to discredit his claims that Lord Voldemort has returned.

Finally, the meeting ends, and Mrs. Weasley announces dinner. As Harry passes two tall, moth-eaten curtains in the hallway, Tonks knocks over an umbrella stand. Apparently in response to the noise, the curtains to fly open. Behind them is a portrait of an old woman horribly screaming: "Half-breeds, mutants, freaks, begone from this place! How dare you befoul the house of my fathers . . ." Mrs. Weasley and Tonks try ineffectually to close the curtains. Sirius Black enters and wrenches them shut. Greeting Harry, he comments that Harry has just met his mother.

[edit] Analysis

Harry is relieved to return to the wizarding world and be reunited with Sirius, but, still angry, he lashes out at Ron and Hermione for withholding information, despite them having been under strict orders to divulge nothing in their letters to him. Although Harry takes a slightly perverse pleasure that Hedwig painfully pecked their hands on his behalf, Ron and Hermione actually had little to share; despite staying at Grimmauld Place, they have been nearly as cut off from the Order's business as Harry, they being too young to participate more than superficially in these very dangerous and adult matters. This hardly mollifies Harry, who continues to feel frustrated and angry at being denied knowledge regarding events in which he plays an integral part. Now, however, he has others to vent his anger on, however undeserved. Harry's frustration and emotional outbursts are mostly affected by puberty, and he suffers from the usual teenage angst that is exacerbated by his isolation and post-traumatic stress regarding Cedric Diggory's recent death and Voldemort's return. Harry could learn much from Fred and George's example, however. Despite being legal age, they are still students and are also excluded from the Order's affairs. But rather than ranting and raving like Harry, they instead use their ingenuity to devise unique magical methods for gathering information, which they then share with Harry and the group.

The boundary between adults and youths has been clearly defined here, and although Harry and the others have continually proved their worth in fighting Voldemort, and Harry has personally faced the Dark Lord three times, they are still underaged and unqualified wizards; entrusting youths with the Order's secrets would only make them more tempting targets for Death Eaters to capture and torture for that information. Harry and the others fail to consider that, or that Harry just barely escaped Voldemort's trap, and Cedric lost his life. The less they all know, the safer they are, at least for now, although they will continue to do whatever they can to learn the Order's business.

The rift with Percy Weasley causes Ron and his family additional stress and anguish. Although Percy has always been rather pompous and self-serving, his ambition has blinded him to what is truly happening within the Ministry of Magic and the wizarding world at large. He also discounts the belief that Voldemort has returned. Regarding his sudden promotion, two factors make it logical. First, as the other Weasleys suggest, the Ministry recruited him to spy upon his own family, who are known supporters of Harry and Dumbledore. Second, the Ministry was covering up Percy's severe blunder. Percy, as his family is aware, seriously erred by failing to recognize that Mr. Crouch had fallen under Voldemort's and Wormtail's control. The official Ministry of Magic stance continues to be that Voldemort is still dead and Wormtail was murdered by Sirius Black thirteen years ago; therefore, they must deny Harry's explanation regarding Mr. Crouch, no matter how well it explains what has been happening. Percy's only official misstep was that he never realized how "sick" Crouch was, for which he can be forgiven because Crouch apparently hid the depths of his illness, and his promotion is simply part of the fiction that the Ministry must create to explain what happened to Crouch. Percy, having whole-heartedly bought into the Ministry mindset, never questions his promotion, apparently believing that it is purely in recognition of his abilities.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why is Harry so angry with Ron and Hermione? How else could he have expressed his frustration?
2. What is the Order of the Phoenix and why was it established? Who founded it?
3. What has caused Percy's estrangement from the Weasley family? Did he react appropriately?
4. Why does the Daily Prophet continually ridicule Harry? Who might be responsible for projecting this image?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why does Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place resemble a Dark wizard's residence? What is its current purpose?
2. Why was so much information withheld from Harry until now? Was this wise?

[edit] Greater Picture

Percy will continue, oblivious to the changes in the Ministry, until very near the end of our story. Finally recognizing that the Ministry has changed, fundamentally, into an instrument of evil, Percy will return to his family as the battle at Hogwarts begins. Until he reaches that realization, though, there will be friction between himself and his father, as they both continue to work at the Ministry.

Fred and George, in order to determine what is happening in the Order meetings, have invented Extendable Ears, which they try to use to listen in on the meetings in the kitchen. These devices, with their ability to eavesdrop on other wizards, will prove useful in this and all future books.

The appearance of the house will give the reader some concern, as with its snake-head door handle, display of preserved House Elf heads, and screaming portraits, it is clearly the house of Wizards who feel some kinship to Slytherin and espouse Voldemort's views on Wizarding racial purity. We will find, in the next few chapters, that the male line of the Black family has almost completely died out, leaving Sirius as the sole living Black, and that he is trying to eliminate the Dark magic of his house as part of the process of rejecting his family's values, which he feels are repugnant to him. It is presumed that Harry will continue this cleaning up of the house, which he inherits on Sirius' death, once the more pressing matters of his education and Voldemort's defeat are dealt with.

Chapter 5: The Order of the Phoenix

[edit] Synopsis

Sirius Black explains to a bewildered Harry that the portrait is his mother, the late Mrs. Black. Number 12, Grimmauld Place, the Blacks' ancestral home, was inherited by Sirius upon his mother's death, though he was in Azkaban at the time. He adds gloomily that providing the house as the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix is one of the few useful contributions he has been able to make.

In the kitchen, the Weasleys and several Order members are busy preparing dinner. Bill Weasley is also there, and he and Mr. Weasley are studying numerous parchment rolls at the kitchen table, apparently Order of the Phoenix business. Bill quickly gathers everything up when Harry enters. Fred and George attempt to magically serve the meal, sending a chopping board and knife, a pitcher of Butterbeer, and a pot of stew careening through the air and onto the table. The results are less than stellar, with the stew barely staying on the table's edge, half the Butterbeer spilled, and the knife's point landing in the table right where Sirius' hand had been moments before. Mrs. Weasley scolds them: just because they are allowed to do magic does not mean that they have to.

During dinner, Harry catches snippets of conversation around the room: Tonks taking requests for different-shaped noses, Bill discussing the Goblins' stance on Lord Voldemort and how it was affected by their dealings with Ludo Bagman the previous year, and the thief Mundungus Fletcher's comical business dealings. Following dinner, Sirius breaks the comfortable ambiance by suggesting that Harry ask questions about Voldemort.

There is a brief argument between Mrs. Weasley and Sirius over how much Harry should know. Sirius thinks Harry should have more information, but Mrs. Weasley feels he is too young and accuses Sirius of treating Harry more like a substitute for James Potter, rather than as his godson. Lupin and Mr. Weasley side with Sirius, however. There is a somewhat longer disagreement between Mrs. Weasley and the others as to which of the younger set should be allowed to listen in, and finally, Mrs. Weasley drags a fiercely-protesting Ginny off to bed. Harry begins asking questions while Fred, George, Ron, and Hermione listen. Sirius, Lupin, and Mr. Weasley answer Harry's questions. No murders have been committed because Voldemort wants to keep a low profile. The Ministry of Magic fervently denies Voldemort has returned, and Albus Dumbledore has been demoted from the Chairmanship of the International Confederation of Wizards and from Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot after publicly announcing that Lord Voldemort was active again. The Order is recruiting new members, including foreign ones, and is also concentrating on the Auror department in the Ministry. Members who work for the Ministry must tread carefully, however, as the Minister has threatened to fire anyone friendly with Dumbledore. The Minister is paranoid that Dumbledore is plotting to take over the Ministry of Magic. Sirius also lets slip that there is a weapon the Order is trying to guard, at which point Molly Weasley interrupts. Lupin agrees that enough information has been given, and everyone is sent to bed.

There is some discussion after lights out amongst Harry, Ron, and the twins, who had previously heard everything that was discussed that evening via the Extendable Ears. The only revelation to them is that a weapon has been mentioned. Their conversation is cut short by Mrs. Weasley's return, and Harry falls asleep, only to have nightmares.

[edit] Analysis

The main point of this chapter is to bring Harry, and thus the reader, up to speed on what has been happening in the Wizarding world over the past month and a bit. Now that Voldemort has returned, Harry is aware that the Wizarding world has changed significantly, and we have seen his growing perplexity that the expected evil has not yet materialized. In this meeting, we learn why nothing seems to be happening, and what Dumbledore, the only authority who seems to believe Harry, is doing about it. We are also able to find out more about what has happened to some important adult characters, notably Sirius and Lupin, and are offered some more insight into the relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Weasley.

Although Sirius is free after spending twelve years in Azkaban Prison for a crime he never committed, he is as much a prisoner as ever. As a still-wanted fugitive, he must remain in hiding, effectively being incarcerated in the dreary Black home that has always been an unhappy place for him. And although he is an Order of the Phoenix member, he is unable to actively participate in the fight against Voldemort. As a result, he is becoming increasingly depressed, irritable, and reckless, as well as mentally unstable. This, coupled with his rather underdeveloped maturity that was effectively suppressed during his long imprisonment, will affect his relationship with Harry. As Molly Weasley points out, Sirius tends to view Harry more as a replacement for James Potter, rather than as his godson. That is not to say Sirius does not love Harry or have his best interest in mind, but he is not as good an adult role model as he should be.

Molly's character is also becoming more defined here. While she is a strong-willed, powerful witch and a valuable Order of the Phoenix member, her maternal instincts often take precedence over all other matters. By wanting to withhold all information from the youngsters, she not only is trying to protect her children for as long as possible, but also Harry, who she has come to love like a son. She cannot, however, continue to keep him and the younger Weasley children sequestered in childhood innocence. Providing too little information can be as dangerous as giving them too much.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why was Dumbledore demoted from important Wizarding posts, and by whom?
2. Why is Mrs. Weasley angry with Fred and George? Should she be?
3. What are some of the tasks the Order of the Phoenix is trying to accomplish?
4. What does Sirius mean when he says offering the Black family house to the Order of the Phoenix is one of the few useful things he can do?

[edit] Further Study

1. What could the weapon be that Sirius mentions? Where is it?
2. Why might the Order have to be kept secret?
3. Why is there an argument over how much information Harry should be allowed to hear? What should he know?
4. Why does Molly Weasley accuse Sirius of treating Harry more like a friend than a godson? Is she right? If so, why do Lupin and the others side with Sirius?

[edit] Greater Picture

We will find out, later in the book, that the weapon is not, in fact, a weapon as such, but rather a prophecy having to do with Harry and Voldemort. However, the idea of a supremely powerful weapon will fill Harry's, Hermione's, and Ron's thoughts to the point that when they need to lure Professor Umbridge away from the school, the idea that Hermione hits upon is a secret weapon that Dumbledore had supposedly left for them to finish. It has been mentioned earlier that Ron had overheard Order members talking about guard duty; Harry at the time had sourly suggested that what they were guarding was himself. Now, though, we learn that there is this object that the Order is guarding. We will find that at least two Order members, Mr. Weasley and Sturgis Podmore, get into trouble while on guard duty.

The prophecy, which we will not actually hear until the penultimate chapter of this book, could only be considered a weapon in that it tells what power Harry has that will be Voldemort's undoing, and that it will be the Dark Lord's marking him as an equal which will give him power over Voldemort. Voldemort has already heard the first part of the prophecy, which predicts Harry's birth and parentage, and that he will have power the Dark Lord knows not; Voldemort will spend the largest part of this book trying to recapture that prophecy in the hopes that it will also describe how he might defeat Harry. Like so many prophecies, if Voldemort actually had managed to retrieve the prophecy, its most important part for him would have already been foregone. The part of the prophecy that Voldemort has not heard is that the Dark Lord will "mark him as an equal." In fact, that mark, the scar on Harry's forehead that resulted from Voldemort's attempt to murder Harry, is the visible indicator of Voldemort's soul shard that remains within Harry, and which gives him insight into Voldemort's plans throughout the series' final book. The final part, about "the power that the Dark Lord knows not", is by this time an open secret, though Voldemort still discounts it. By the time he returns, he knew that it was Lily's sacrifice that protected Harry, and thus that the magic set to oppose him was based on love; not knowing love himself, Voldemort could not truly understand its power.

However, a more conventional weapon does exist, and it plays an important part later in the series. In the final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, as Voldemort's wand has been proven ineffective against Harry's, he will seek the legendary Elder Wand. It is supposedly the most powerful wand ever crafted, and Voldemort hopes it will help defeat Harry.

Chapter 6: The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black

[edit] Synopsis

Harry, Hermione and the Weasleys spend the next morning ridding the parlour of doxies. Harry catches Fred pocketing a paralyzed doxy; Fred explains that he and George can experiment with its venom for new products (Skiving Snackboxes) for their joke shop. Mundungus Fletcher arrives, bringing stolen cauldrons to store at the house, sending Mrs. Weasley into a rage. While she furiously prepares lunch, a wizened House-elf wanders into the drawing room, muttering obscenities about "mudbloods," evidently meaning Hermione. The elf, Kreacher, who is apparently still extremely devoted to Mrs. Black, has been taking orders from her portrait for the past ten years. Hermione's attempts to be kind to him are thwarted by the twins and Sirius, who has just entered the room.

When Harry notices an old tapestry, Sirius explains sarcastically that it is the "Noble and Most Ancient House of Black" family tree. Mrs. Black has blasted off various members for "sins" against the family—namely, associating with, marrying, or sympathizing with Half-bloods and Muggles. Sirius points out that pure-blood wizarding families like the Blacks are almost all interrelated. Notable Black family connections include the Malfoys, the Lestranges, the Weasleys, the Prewetts, the Tonks, and former Hogwarts Headmaster Phineas Nigellus. In addition, his brother, Regulus, was once a Death Eater. According to Sirius, "He got in so far, then panicked about what he was being asked to do and tried to back out." This led to his death.

The next few days are filled with more cleaning tasks, often interrupted by Kreacher creeping around rescuing family heirlooms and Dark objects that are being tossed out, and with visits from Order members. Finally, Mrs. Weasley reminds Harry that his Ministry of Magic hearing is the next day, causing him apprehension. Mr. Weasley is to escort him, as requested by Professor Dumbledore when he visited Grimmauld Place the night before. Harry, worried as he is about the hearing, now also feels vexed with Dumbledore for not wanting to see Harry while he was there. Harry now feels that Dumbledore has avoided him all summer.

[edit] Analysis

Despite Voldemort, the upcoming hearing, Sirius' increasing depression, and Harry's frustration, Grimmauld Place offers rare snippets of domestic bliss that Harry and his godfather enjoy with the Weasleys. Neither Sirius nor Harry has ever experienced a happy family life, and Harry relishes these brief interludes. Harry and Sirius actually share much in common, growing up isolated and miserable in loveless households: Grimmauld Place and Privet Drive. And while Harry only has to endure his unhappy home for the summer, Sirius is now trapped inside a house containing many unpleasant (and magically permanent) reminders of his difficult youth—his mad mother's screaming portrait, a sullen house-elf, and the family-tree tapestry bearing scorch marks where he and his other "blood traitor" relatives were blasted away by Mrs. Black. But a house can only reflect the people living in it, and Harry and Sirius have taken the first steps in creating their own happy family there. The pleasant time they share together will be short-lived, however. Hogwarts starts soon, and Sirius and Harry must part company; Sirius will likely be more lonely and miserable than ever.

Harry also learns more about Sirius' ancestry and how interrelated wizard families are. It is quite possible that Harry and Sirius are distant blood relatives as well as godfather and godson. Harry may even be related to the Weasleys.

Hermione looking out the drawing room window and down at the front steps may be somewhat confusing for US readers. The house at Grimmauld Place is built to the London pattern, very much vertical, and apparently has four stories above the ground floor. The drawing room or parlour is apparently located one floor above ground level, on what U.S. readers would call the second floor, and European readers call the first floor. More information is available here.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Kreacher continually retrieve discarded items?
2. What was Sirius' relationship with his family?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why doesn't Sirius directly answer Harry when he asks if he can live at Grimmauld Place if he is expelled?
2. Why would Dumbledore ignore Harry while he was at 12 Grimmauld Place?

[edit] Greater Picture

This chapter marks the first mention of Sirius' brother Regulus. In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, a note is found that is signed only with the initials R.A.B.; this R.A.B. is Regulus Arcturus Black, as confirmed by Kreacher in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Also in this chapter, amongst the miscellaneous stuff being tossed out, is mention of "a heavy locket that none of them could open". We will later find that a locket, which can be traced back to Salazar Slytherin, plays a major part in the story. Dumbledore believes that Voldemort used this locket to create a Horcrux, and in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, they go to retrieve it, only to find that it has been replaced with a fake locket and the above-mentioned note. It is ironic that this locket had been at Headquarters all this time. As a Slytherin relic, this would likely be among the items Kreacher would squirrel away for safe-keeping, along with pictures of members of the Black family, such as Bellatrix Lestrange. We will have the history of the locket explained to us by Kreacher and Mundungus Fletcher in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and we will see its eventual destruction in that book as well.

Chapter 7: The Ministry of Magic

[edit] Synopsis

Harry wakes early in the morning, too nervous to eat breakfast. He and Arthur Weasley depart for the Ministry of Magic, commuting in a "thoroughly non-magical fashion" to make a better impression. Upon arriving, Mr. Weasley and Harry cram into a broken telephone booth and are transported underground. They enter a huge, brightly lit atrium with a large fountain at its center (a wizard and witch surrounded by various magical creatures wearing servile expressions).

Harry passes through the security screening, then follows Mr. Weasley into a lift (elevator). Wizards and witches continually enter and exit, as do hovering paper airplanes. Mr. Weasley identifies these as interdepartmental memos, saying they had earlier tried owls, which had created an unbelievable mess. Harry notices that underground windows in the hallway have sunlight streaming through them. Mr. Weasley explains that they are controlled by Magical Maintenance, who, among other maintenance tasks at the Ministry, determine the apparent weather. They pass the Auror offices, which are covered with pictures of family, Quidditch, and Sirius Black. Kingsley Shacklebolt approaches, acting as though he and Mr. Weasley are on poor terms. He slips them a magazine in amongst some files, quietly saying that Sirius might be interested in it. Mr. Weasley equally quietly invites him to dinner, then he and Harry move on.

Mr. Weasley, whose office is noticeably tiny, mentions his work investigating exploding toilets caused by anti-Muggle pranksters. A co-worker, Perkins, runs in announcing that the hearing's time and location has been changed, making Harry late. The new location is in old Courtroom 10 in the building's basement. Because the lift does not descend that far, Harry and Mr. Weasley race down the stairs. Just outside the courtroom, Mr. Weasley stops; Harry must face the hearing alone.

[edit] Analysis

This is Harry's first time to the Ministry of Magic. Until now, he has had relatively little exposure to the adult Wizarding society, having only been to Diagon Alley, Hogwarts, and Hogsmeade village. The Ministry is the hub of the Wizarding community in the U.K., and it governs nearly all its activities. Unfortunately, Harry's first visit here is an unpleasant one.

We should take particular note of the Fountain of Magical Brethren in the Ministry atrium, as it represents how the power of the Ministry is wielded only by wizards, with all other magical creatures under their domain. Harry notes that the expressions of syrupy subservience seem out of place on all the sculpted magical races except the House Elf.

The sudden change in the hearing's time and location is an obvious ploy by certain Ministry officials to prevent Harry from testifying on his own behalf and to convict him in absentia. They likely know that he is innocent, but to prevent his making further claims that Voldemort has returned, they will use any means to censure and exile him from the Wizarding world. Whether Voldemort's Death Eaters are behind this, or it is merely corrupt Ministry officials who refuse to believe that Voldemort has returned or who do not wish the general population to know what is really happening, is still unclear. What is apparent is that this is a technique used by the author to reinforce what we have been told. Hermione has told Harry that the Daily Prophet is making Harry, and Dumbledore with him, into something of a laughing stock so as to "spin" their message of Voldemort's return into oblivion. This does not have much of an impact on the reader, because it does not happen directly to the viewpoint character (Harry). With the sudden rescheduling of the hearing, we are actually shown that there may be some ill-feeling against Harry, and some machinations within the Ministry may be going on to try and get Harry finally out of the Ministry's way.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why would the time and location for Harry's hearing have been changed so suddenly?
2. Why might Mr. Weasley be prevented from attending the hearing?

[edit] Further Study

1. How might the Fountain of Magical Brethren represent an inaccurate picture of the wizarding world?
2. What is the significance of holding a hearing for using underage magic in Courtroom 10?

[edit] Greater Picture

The question of whether the Ministry's ongoing denigration of Harry and Dumbledore is being driven by Voldemort, or simply by the Ministry following Fudge's plan to attempt to retain power, is never completely resolved. Fudge's need to retain power, though, would seem to be enough to explain the ongoing discrediting of Harry and Dumbledore.

Harry will feel a need to re-enter the Ministry at the end of this book. It is in this chapter that he learns where the Visitor's Entrance to the Ministry is located, and how one uses it to access the Ministry. This information, plus what Harry learns about the layout of the Ministry in the course of this visit, will be vital to his later visit and attempt to rescue Sirius.

The Fountain of Magical Brethren depicts, with almost uncanny realism, the way that the Ministry expects other Magical races to treat Wizards; though never stated, Ministry policy has always been to treat non-Human Magical races as second-class citizens. This fountain will be destroyed at the end of this book; Harry will not see a need to re-enter the Ministry until the final book, at which time we shall see the replacement. That replacement status, showing a Wizarding family seated on thrones made of tormented Muggles, will again echo the stated policy of the Ministry.

Chapter 8: The Hearing

[edit] Synopsis

Upon entering the courtroom, Harry realizes this is where the Death Eaters were tried — the place he had entered in Dumbledore's Pensieve during his previous year at Hogwarts. Cornelius Fudge is acting as the head of the Wizengamot (wizard high court), and Harry is surprised to see Percy Weasley as the scribe. Dumbledore sweeps in, to the evident discomfiture of several members of the court, and announces himself as witness for the defence. Fudge begins the questioning, giving Harry little time to answer completely.

Frustrated, Harry exclaims, "I did it because of the Dementors!" This seems to stun the Wizengamot. Amelia Bones questions him further about the Dementors' presence. Dumbledore steps in, noting that they have a witness, Arabella Figg. Summoned, she seems particularly batty and frightened and begins her testimony as though she has memorized it. There is doubt as to whether Squibs can see Dementors, but Mrs. Figg describes them accurately.

After Mrs. Figg leaves, Fudge struggles to regain the courtroom's flow, insisting Harry's actions have little to do with the Dementors presence. A few court members aid Fudge, notably Dolores Umbridge, who obviously remains convinced Harry is guilty. Dumbledore quickly asserts that Harry has broken no laws if he was protecting himself and Dudley from a life-threatening danger, as is noted in the Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery. Fudge quickly brings up other instances where Harry has broken the Decree, but Dumbledore nullifies each one in turn. The council votes, and Harry is cleared of all charges, much to Fudge's dismay. Harry turns to thank Dumbledore, only to find that the Headmaster is already leaving the courtroom.

[edit] Analysis

That Harry would be subjected to a full hearing before the entire Wizengamot for a simple matter involving underage magic indicates that sinister forces are at work against Harry. Changing the hearing's time and location without prior notification is yet another despicable tactic by the Ministry of Magic to discredit Harry and also to prevent Dumbledore from testifying, although, fortunately, it failed. By attempting to prevent Harry from giving a complete explanation about the events at Privet Drive, it seems certain that some Ministry officials had already conspired to rule against him, showing they will do anything necessary to invalidate Dumbledore's and Harry's claims concerning Voldemort, including ousting Harry from the Wizard world and demoting Dumbledore from his many prestigious Wizarding posts. That the hearing was relocated to the same trial courtroom where Death Eaters were previously tried and convicted is significant—an obvious ploy to implant the impression in the Wizengamots' minds that Harry is likewise guilty. Dumbledore's intervention saves Harry, although his abrupt departure without speaking to him is puzzling.

Mrs. Figg's testimony was also crucial, although, as she is a Squib, it is believed to be unlikely she actually saw the Dementors and was probably coached prior to testifying. Looking back at the actual events, though, we see that Mrs. Figg had identified the Dementors when she was talking to Harry, before Harry had mentioned them, and before Mundungus Fletcher had returned. From this, we can see that Mrs. Figg not only can see Dementors, but was able to recognize them. Coaching, it if happened, must have happened before the events of that evening; Dumbledore must have informed Mrs. Figg that Dementors were likely, and trained her on what she was likely to see and feel when they were around. Dumbledore, as we saw at the end of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, was expecting both the Dementors and the Giants to rally to Voldemort, and so is likely to have briefed Mrs. Figg.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Can Squibs really see Dementors? If not, how and why could Mrs. Figg provide such convincing testimony?
2. Why would Fudge want Harry to be voted guilty, even if he is not?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why would Dumbledore avoid looking at or talking to Harry?
2. Why would Harry's hearing be held in the same courtroom that Death Eaters were tried and convicted in?
3. Why would the full Wizangamot be present for a hearing on a simple case of underage magic? How could Fudge have arranged to convene the entire Wizengamot for such a simple case?

[edit] Greater Picture

Harry has been upset by Dumbledore's failure to get in contact with him throughout the summer, and by his failure to communicate with him even while he was at Headquarters. He was particularly dismayed by the revelation that Dumbledore had been at Headquarters and had left without visiting Harry. Here, Dumbledore arrives, defends Harry successfully, and departs, without ever speaking a word directly to Harry or even making eye contact. Harry here feels almost abandoned by Dumbledore; and this feeling of abandonment will result in Harry refusing to tell Dumbledore of things occurring during the course of the year that directly affected Harry and Dumbledore both. This, it will turn out, is a deliberate policy of Dumbledore's during this year. Knowing, as he does, that Harry is able to occasionally perceive things happening in Voldemort's mind, Dumbledore has come to the conclusion that, if and when Voldemort becomes aware of the connection, he will attempt to use it against Harry and his associates. Against this, Dumbledore is choosing to try and shield Harry and himself by not displaying any sign that there is a relationship greater than student to headmaster between them. Harry resents this change of relationship being made unilaterally, and will unconsciously retaliate by withholding useful information.

We see a curious, but possibly intentional, oddity of the Wizarding justice system here. Rather than having prosecuting and defending representatives in front of a neutral party, the defending party in the dispute is questioned directly by the nominal head of the Wizengamot, and the Wizengamot members then confer and vote on the innocence or guilt of the defending party. This tallies with the views of the Wizengamot that we were granted by means of Dumbledore's Pensieve. This can lead to abuses of justice, as the prosecution is generally going to be better prepared for trial than the defence, particularly if the defendant has just been released from Azkaban, and as the prosecutor will be a member of the same group as the judges. Most committees seem to be reflections of one powerful individual, who pulls the other committee members along with his or her views by main force; Harry's great fortune in this case seems to be that while Fudge is apparently the official head of the Wizengamot, the actual leader seems to be Amelia Bones, who, perhaps inspired by Dumbledore's presence, is more interested in justice than in toeing the Ministry party line.

We should note that this simplification of the justice system seems to make the courtroom drama better suited to a children's book. Very few children of this book's targeted age group will be fully aware of the normal judicial system's structure, and this adversarial form of court is better suited to their understanding. Additionally, Harry's victory over such a court is all the sweeter, as the deck is so clearly stacked against him.

Chapter 9: The Woes of Mrs. Weasley

[edit] Synopsis

Harry leaves the courtroom to tell Mr. Weasley the good news; Mr. Weasley comments that Professor Dumbledore brushed past him without speaking. As they stand outside, wizards file out of the courtroom, and Mr. Weasley expresses surprise that Harry seems to have been tried by the entire Wizengamot. Percy is the last person out, and he and Mr. Weasley studiously ignore each other, though the lines around Mr. Weasley's mouth tighten as Percy walks past.

While walking up the stairs, they meet Cornelius Fudge and Lucius Malfoy, whom Mr. Weasley surmises was attempting to sneak down to the courtroom to learn what was happening. In amongst the usual barbed comments exchanged between Lucius and Arthur, Malfoy cites "private matters" to explain his conversation with Fudge. Arthur Weasley comments privately to Harry that it likely has more to do with the exchange of gold, and that Malfoy is contributing to all the right causes as a means to get laws he dislikes delayed or ignored. Harry suggests that with Fudge meeting privately with Death Eaters, it is possible that he has been put under the Imperius Curse. Mr. Weasley says they considered that, but Dumbledore believes Fudge is acting on his own, for what little reassurance that provides.

When they arrive back at 12 Grimmauld Place, everyone is relieved that Harry has been exonerated. Fred, George, and Ginny break into a victory dance and chant, "He got off, he got off, he got off!" until Mrs. Weasley yells at them. During the next few days, however, Harry realizes that Sirius seems despondent. Hermione suggests that Sirius was secretly hoping Harry would become an outcast like him and live at Grimmauld Place. Regardless, Harry's spirits are lifted, and he dreams about Hogwarts.

The day before school starts, booklists finally arrive, raising the question as to who the new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher might be. They also bring a surprise—as expected, Hermione has been named a Gryffindor prefect, but so has Ron, much to everyone's astonishment. As a reward, Mrs. Weasley agrees to buy Ron a new broom. Harry struggles with jealousy and resentment, believing that between the two, he would have been chosen over Ron, but Sirius telling him, at the celebration dinner, that his father had not been a prefect either helps Harry come to terms with this. Of the Marauders, it was Lupin who was made Prefect. Lupin comments that Dumbledore probably expected him to be able to keep his friends under control, but he failed miserably. Harry gives his sincere congratulations to Ron.

After the celebratory dinner, Mad-Eye Moody shows Harry a photograph of the original Order of the Phoenix. Moody apparently thought this would be a treat, allowing Harry to see his parents again. However, Harry finds it disturbing, seeing them amongst so many others who have died at Death Eaters' hands. Harry, angry at being cornered with something so negative, makes his excuses and leaves the party.

Harry passes the drawing room in which Mrs. Weasley is attempting to banish a boggart. She is sobbing, and each time she waves her wand, another family member's image appears—dead. It also appears as a dead Harry. Lupin comes to her rescue, finishing off the boggart and comforting her. As Harry slips away to bed, he feels quite old and wonders how he could have been upset about who was made a prefect when there are so many more important matters at stake.

[edit] Analysis

For once, it is Harry, rather than Ron, who copes with jealousy and being in second place after Ron is named a prefect and Harry is not. It is likely Dumbledore appointed Ron partially to help Ron develop his own identity, apart from Harry's influence and the constant attention surrounding him. Ron has always contented himself to tag along after others, suffering from a lack of confidence caused mostly by feeling overshadowed by his accomplished siblings, Hermione's intellect, and Harry's celebrity. Lupin may have been appointed a prefect for similar reasons. It is also possible Dumbledore was concerned that other students would feel Harry was chosen due to his fame, and that this may have caused more resentment and detracted from Harry doing an effective job. Harry also fails to understand that Ron is struggling to discover his own unique talents and abilities. Also, with Voldemort re-emerging and so many doubting Harry's claims, Dumbledore may simply want to avoid putting any additional stress and focus on Harry.

We do see a small conflict at this point. In Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Hagrid tells Harry that his parents were "Head Boy and Head Girl in their day." We have already seen that Percy had progressed from Prefect to Head Boy, so the assumption is that, in order to become Head Boy, James Potter must have first been a Prefect. Yet, here we learn that it was Lupin who was Prefect. This anomaly is never explained, but if Lupin had resigned or been forced out as Prefect, or had elected not to complete his seventh year at Hogwarts, it is possible that James would have been made Prefect and Head Boy in his stead.

Lucius Malfoy meeting with Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge so close to Harry's hearing is highly suspicious, although there is no proof that Fudge is connected to Death Eaters. Likely he is not, but Malfoy has certainly courted his and the Ministry's favor and influence, mostly through generous monetary donations. Here, Lucius, a Death Eater, may be attempting to manipulate Fudge regarding Harry's hearing, or may be attempting to extract information that he can relay to Voldemort. A clueless Fudge is more inept than corrupt, and he is mainly concerned with cultivating his public image rather than paying attention to what is actually happening in the Wizarding world. He truly believes that Voldemort has not returned and that Harry is an attention-seeking liar. Fudge is also highly paranoid and is convinced that Dumbledore is plotting to overthrow the Ministry.

Molly Weasley's deepest fears are shown here. A devoted and loving wife and mother, she lives in constant terror that her family will fall victim to Voldemort. She has lost her brothers, and it is unlikely she could bear to lose Arthur or any of her children. From seeing her fears, we can tell that she is convinced that the Weasley family will not survive the war unscathed. Harry is deeply disturbed by witnessing this, although the Boggart turning into his image shows how deeply Molly cares for him, considering him as a son. Harry is also confronted with his own mortality and realizes that he may not get through this alive.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why is Harry upset that Mad-Eye Moody showed him the picture of his parents?
2. How does Harry react when he sees Mrs. Weasley's boggart turning into her family, dead? What does this say about Molly Weasley?
3. How does Harry feel when he sees the same boggart becoming him, dead?
4. What changes Harry's attitude about Hermione and Ron becoming prefects?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why might Lucius Malfoy have been meeting with Cornelius Fudge immediately after the hearing?
2. Why might Ron have been made a prefect and not Harry? Does Harry think he is better qualified than Ron?
3. Is Ron really qualified to be a prefect or will he just rely on Hermione's guidance?
4. Who might be the new Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor?
5. How might the boggart scene foreshadow other events in the books?

[edit] Greater Picture

It is unlikely that Lucius being so near the Department of Mysteries is an innocent coincidence on his part; we will discover that Voldemort is seeking something in that department, and Lucius may be searching for a suitable candidate he can place under the Imperius curse to fetch that for him. Within days, Sturgis Podmore will be caught attempting to enter a secure door, probably having been magically compelled to breach the Department of Mysteries by Malfoy. Later in the book, we will learn that one Broderick Bode, an Unspeakable who was seen in the previous chapter, will run afoul of protective spells within the Ministry. Bode will be seen in St. Mungo's hospital recovering from a severe jinx around the Christmas holidays. Hermione will later surmise that Bode, like Podmore, had been compelled to try and retrieve the object that Voldemort had wanted. We will also overhear a conversation between Voldemort and Rookwood, a Death Eater, which confirms this, and that Bode had been jinxed in the Department of Ministries. It is Voldemort's ongoing attempts to fetch this object which will result in the climactic battle of this book.

The Boggart transforming into "dead" Weasley family members may foreshadow a tragedy in the series' final book.

Chapter 10: Luna Lovegood

[edit] Synopsis

After a restless night, Harry awakens to chaos: everyone is racing around, trying to pack as quickly as possible. The Advance Guard has reassembled to accompany Harry to King’s Cross Station, and Sirius insists upon coming along in his dog form, much to Mrs. Weasley's dismay. They wait for Sturgis Podmore, who is late, but eventually move on without him. Sirius, who has been confined until now, scampers around and snaps at pigeons.

The group says their goodbyes on the platform, and Harry, Ron, Hermione, Fred, George, and Ginny board the train. Fred and George depart to talk business with Lee Jordan. When Harry suggests finding a compartment, Hermione and Ron exchange awkward looks and explain that they have to join the other prefects for instructions. They leave, promising to return soon. Harry and Ginny, trying to find an empty compartment, struggle the length of the train; Harry notices that everyone is looking at him, and then remembers that the Daily Prophet has been saying all summer that he is a lying madman. As they near the rear car, they meet Neville. Ginny leads them into a compartment with a strange looking girl inside who emanates "an aura of distinct dottiness." She is reading a magazine called The Quibbler upside down. Ginny introduces her as Luna Lovegood, a Ravenclaw student in her year. After attempting to converse with her, the discussion turns to Neville’s birthday present, a rare Mimbulus Mimbletonia plant. He pokes it with his wand, trying to show them its defense mechanism, and the entire compartment is sprayed with horrid-smelling green pus just as Cho Chang walks in to greet Harry.

An awkward moment passes. Cho leaves and Ginny cleans the stinksap off them. Ron and Hermione return to announce that Draco Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson are the Slytherin Prefects; Ernie Macmillan and Hannah Abbott are Hufflepuff Prefects; and Anthony Goldstein and Padma Patil are the Ravenclaw Prefects. Ron tells a bad joke, at which Luna laughs inappropriately loudly. Harry notices Sirius Black's name on Luna's magazine cover. He asks to borrow it and reads an article claiming Sirius’ alter-ego is a singer before realizing the story is bogus. Hermione disdainfully states that the Quibbler is "rubbish," to which Luna replies, "My father’s the editor."

Draco Malfoy, with his sidekicks Crabbe and Goyle, drop in on them. Draco asks how Harry feels to be second to Ron; Hermione tells him to get out. Draco makes a comment hinting that he recognized Sirius. After he departs, Harry and Hermione exchange troubled looks, but with the others there cannot say anything, while Ron is oblivious to this exchange.

At last, they reach Hogwarts. However, instead of Hagrid’s familiar voice calling the first-years, they hear Professor Grubbly-Plank. They hardly have time to ponder this before Ginny and Harry have to carry their belongings to the carriages. Harry is stunned that the carriages are no longer horseless; rather, they are drawn by black, skeletal horse-like creatures with leathery skin and wings. Ron sees nothing, leaving Harry wondering if he has gone mad. Luna approaches, saying she also sees them, leaving Harry confused: is confirmation from someone believing in Crumple Horned Snorkacks truly reassuring?

[edit] Analysis

There are several interesting developments in this chapter. Sirius unexpectedly seeing Harry off at the Hogwarts Express was not only reckless and risked him being captured, but it endangers Harry, and his friends, and risks exposing the Order of the Phoenix. His dog animagus form may have been recognized by the Malfoys, which could lead to Harry, and possibly Dumbledore, being accused as his accomplices. His impulsive act shows that Sirius' judgment may be deteriorating.

It is not immediately apparent how Draco and Lucius would have recognized Sirius. However, we must recall that Peter Pettigrew (Wormtail) has returned to Voldemort, and had been a close friend of Sirius' some fifteen years before. Wormtail will have been able to describe Sirius' Animagus shape to Voldemort, and Voldemort, knowing that Sirius would likely be in the Order of the Phoenix, would have passed that information to his returned Death Eaters, including Lucius Malfoy.

On the train, Harry, who is usually accompanied by Ron and Hermione, must fend for himself for a while as they tend to their prefect duties. Still smarting over Ron's new status, Harry is embarrassed to find himself seated with some less popular students who others consider "misfits". Luna Lovegood, in particular, is an oddity Harry would rather avoid, although Ginny seems on friendly terms with her. However, Harry does have his first inkling that Cho Chang, who he has had a crush on for some time, seems to show an interest in him, although she catches him at a rather awkward and embarrassing moment. However, Harry, like Cho, is still deeply affected by Cedric Diggory's death, and pursuing a relationship may be an unwise course for either at this time.

It is noted that Harry recognizes this issue of the Quibbler as the same one that Kingsley Shacklebolt had earlier surreptitiously slipped to Mr. Weasley, saying it would amuse Sirius. We now know exactly why Sirius would be amused.

That Hagrid is gone is not entirely unexpected; Harry knows he is on a secret mission for Dumbledore. However, his absence is still unsettling for Harry, who considers Hagrid like family and feels that he represents comfort and security; Harry is also worried for his friend's safety.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Who meets the first-years students at the platform? Who should be there?
2. Why does Sirius insist on seeing Harry and the others off at the train station when it is so dangerous for him to be out?
3. Why would Harry rather not sit with Neville and Luna on the train?

[edit] Further Study

1. What are the black horse-like creatures pulling the "horseless" carriages? Why can Harry and Luna see them, but not the others? Could they be Dark creatures?
2. Where is Hagrid?

[edit] Greater Picture

The horse-like creatures pulling the carriages are Thestrals, and they can only be seen by someone who has witnessed death. Until now, Harry, like many other students, believed the carriages magically pulled themselves. They are visible to him now because he witnessed Cedric Diggory being killed by Wormtail (Peter Pettigrew). Luna Lovegood, a most unusual girl anyway, sees them because she was present when her mother accidentally killed herself while experimenting with a spell that went wrong. It will be learned later that Neville Longbottom is also able to see them, although the reason is unknown. Why Neville does not comment on them here is uncertain. We learn later that he had seen a relative die, and so should have been able to see them all along. His first encounter with them, therefore, would have been in Harry's second year; as Harry and Ron arrived in the flying car that year, they would not have been present when Neville encountered the Thestrals for the first time, and by now he may consider then commonplace. Curiously, most students seem unaware that Thestrals even exist, indicating that the people who can see them rarely mention them to others. Despite being gentle creatures, they are painful reminders of death that those they are visible to probably prefer to avoid. More is learned about these unusual creatures in Hagrid's Care of Magical Creatures class, and they will have a role to play later in the book and in the series.

It could be argued that although Harry is unable to see the Thestrals until after Cedric Diggory was killed, he, technically, had witnessed other deaths prior to Cedric's tragic murder. In Chapter 1 of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry "sees" the Muggle, Frank Bryce, being killed by Voldemort. However, Harry was not physically present when Frank was slain, which would likely explain why the Thestrals remained invisible to him. Harry instead watched the death through a mental connection he has to Voldemort. Though what he was viewing was apparently real and from his own perspective, he was unaware it was actually happening at the time.

It is also true, as we find out later, that Professor Quirrell had died when Voldemort left him in the first book; Harry was there, but he was unconscious at the time and did not see Quirrell die.

Finally, Harry was present when Voldemort killed his mother, and when Voldemort's killing curse rebounded on him. The author has said that the sides of Harry's cot prevented him from actually seeing the death of his mother. Additionally, Voldemort, as we now see, wasn't really quite dead.

We are never positive that the Malfoys recognized Sirius in his dog form, but on the train, Draco hints to Harry that they did, and a story in the Daily Prophet placing Sirius in London will appear shortly.

Although Harry is embarrassed to be seated with unpopular students like Neville Longbottom and Luna Lovegood, these two "misfits" will prove to be among Harry's strongest and most capable allies. Neville will also be closely associated to a prophecy regarding Voldemort and Harry.

Sturgis Podmore's absence, we will find shortly, is due to his having been arrested the night before while attempting to enter a locked door at the Ministry. We will later find evidence that will suggest that the door in question leads to the Department of Mysteries, in which lies an artifact that Voldemort greatly desires. We will learn that Lucius Malfoy, at Voldemort's orders, had been trying to compel other wizards to enter the Department of Mysteries and recover that item; while we hear directly of Broderick Bode being forced to do so, we can only guess that the same has happened to Podmore.

Luna's father being publisher of the Quibbler will also prove important, as it will provide a channel for information about Harry to be disseminated without being filtered through the established media, namely The Daily Prophet. We have been told that the Prophet is echoing the Ministry position, and we will see the effect that has on Harry through the course of this book. It will become vital for Harry to have some other way of telling his story shortly. The contrarian nature of the Quibbler will also be important in the final book of the series.

Chapter 11: The Sorting Hat's New Song

[edit] Synopsis

As Harry, Ron, Ginny, Hermione, Neville, and Luna ride toward the castle, Harry cannot keep his mind off the disturbing black horse creatures. Soon, though, the conversation turns toward Hagrid’s mysterious absence. Harry, Ron, and Hermione scan the Great Hall upon entering, but they are unable to find him. They settle—albeit uneasily—for the conclusion that he has not yet returned from his Order of the Phoenix mission.

Hermione notices a short, curly-haired woman with a "pallid, toadlike face and a pair of prominent, pouchy eyes" sitting at the staff table. Harry is immediately seized by recognition: it is Dolores Umbridge, the particularly nasty questioner from his trial with the Wizengamot. Before they can discuss this further, the first years arrive, and Professor McGonagall brings out the Sorting Hat.

This time, however, the Sorting Hat sings a different type of song. It tells the story of the four Hogwarts founders (Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin) and their friendship. When Hogwarts was new, the school was unified because each founder hand-picked students for his or her House. Slytherin, however, wanted to extend his pure-blood selection criteria throughout the school. This caused dissent, and Slytherin eventually left Hogwarts. From then on, the Sorting Hat sings, the Houses have been divided. The Hat then warns that the school is "in danger from external, deadly foes," and that the they should become united from within. Hermione wonders aloud if the Hat has ever given warnings like that before, and Nearly Headless Nick tells her that this is not the first warning the Sorting Hat has delivered.

Professor Dumbledore delivers his customary speech and introduces Dolores Umbridge as the new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. Surprisingly, she rises to give her own speech. Addressing the students as if they are young children, she speaks in a mind-numbingly dull fashion. Hermione, Dumbledore, and a few other teachers are the only ones able to remain attentive. Umbridge finally finishes, and Harry asks Hermione why she was so interested in what sounded like a load of waffle. Hermione says that in amongst the waffle was information that the Ministry is looking to meddle with Hogwarts. Dumbledore finishes his announcements, and the students are dismissed. Hermione reminds Ron that they have to lead the first-year students to the Common room. Harry, unencumbered by first-years, takes a short-cut and, with help from Neville who for once will be able to remember the password ("Mimbulus Mimbletonia"), is in his dormitory before Ron even gets to the Common room.

In the dormitory, Harry is greeted by another surprise: Seamus’ mother was reluctant to allow him to return to Hogwarts because of Harry and Dumbledore. She believes the Daily Prophet's claims that Lord Voldemort’s return is a lie. Seamus and Harry begin arguing. Neville sides with Harry, and Dean tries to remain neutral. Ron appears and threatens to use his Prefect power, thus ending the disagreement. As they climb silently into bed, Harry reflects. He has received strange looks all day, and he is certain that few believe him. He wonders how long he will have to endure the stares and comments, then thinks, "They’ll know we’re right in the end."

[edit] Analysis

Although this chapter contributes little to the overall plot, it highlights several main themes in the series: friendship and loyalty. The Sorting Hat's new song warns about a gathering storm, though to date Voldemort's activities have remained relatively unnoticed, making claims that he has returned easy to ignore. The song also highlights strength through unity. This is shown throughout the series by Harry's relationship with his friends and the strength he derives from them, although this is tested as more people doubt Harry's assertion that Voldemort is alive. The Sorting Hat issues a plea for the four Hogwarts Houses, who have maintained (mostly) friendly rivalries, to unite under a single cause.

Dumbledore has also foreseen the need for greater unity among all wizards, locally and internationally, which is why he supported reviving the Triwizard Tournament, believing that the friendships and alliances that were forged with the other schools (Durmstrang and Beauxbatons) would be crucial in the future. Ironically, the Hogwarts Houses are more divided than ever, as students take sides over Harry's claims regarding Voldemort.

Professor Umbridge's disrespectful display towards the other teachers, as shown by her arrogant interruption, and to the students through her condescending attitude, hints at an underlying tyrannical nature. That nature was glimpsed during Harry's trial when she was particularly partial to convicting Harry. That she was then appointed by Cornelius Fudge to teach Defence Against the Dark Arts at Hogwarts, even given that Dumbledore was apparently unable to hire a teacher on his own, indicates the Ministry has a hidden agenda. Whether or not this is tied to Voldemort is unknown yet, but either way, it does not bode well for Harry or for Hogwarts.

This chapter marks one of only two times that Harry ever hears the Sorting Hats sing. At every other Sorting throughout the series, there is something that prevents him from being present for the new song.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why was Dolores Umbridge selected as the new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher? Who chose her?
2. Why don't Seamus and his mother believe Harry and Dumbledore?

[edit] Further Study

1. How might the Sorting Hat detect danger?
2. What can be guessed about Dolores Umbridge's character based on her appearance and speech?
3. Why doesn't Harry simply tell Seamus and others what happened in the graveyard?

[edit] Greater Picture

Dumbledore tolerating Umbridge's interruption and her speech criticizing his leadership indicates a serious shift in the balance of power at Hogwarts. Dumbledore's authority as Headmaster and his political clout within the Ministry have diminished. Umbridge and her Ministry agenda are being forced on Dumbledore, and he is unable to prevent this interference at Hogwarts. This foreshadows Umbridge's rising empowerment at the expense of Dumbledore's authority and Hogwarts' welfare as a whole. One does rather wonder about Dumbledore's apparent equanimity at how his powers within the school are being eroded. Is he that certain that Voldemort will show himself, and that he will be vindicated, soon enough that he will be able to complete his work?

Seamus Finnigan's behavior represents the animosity and disbelief of many students, even those in Gryffindor, that Harry will endure in the coming year. This attitude is largely inspired by the attacks on Harry that appear in the Daily Prophet, and will cause many friends to turn against him and also one another. Ron and Hermione always believe in and remain loyal to Harry, but curiously Neville, who is becoming increasingly important to the plot, also never loses faith in him. Interestingly also, Luna Lovegood, strange as she may now seem, will develop into someone with a remarkably uncluttered view of the world, and will also remain true to Harry.

Perhaps most interestingly, among those who are wavering in their loyalty, many will come to Harry's side purely because of the actions of Umbridge as she tries to further discredit Harry and Dumbledore. A large part of her actions will stem from the bizarre belief that Dumbledore, who we already know had been offered the position of Minister of Magic and turned it down, nonetheless is building a private army to attempt to take over the Ministry by force. This belief, originally voiced by Fudge, will result in the Defence Against the Dark Arts course being diluted to the point of uselessness. It is entirely possible that the sole reason for the Ministry's interfering at Hogwarts is an attempt to prevent formation of this nonexistent private army, by effectively banning the teaching of spells that could be used against the Ministry. In this case, Umbridge's further actions, having herself appointed Hogwarts High Inquisitor and arranging for the promulgation of Educational Decrees to increase her own power, might be termed private enterprise. In any event, it is largely disgust with Umbridge's teaching that proves the inspiration for Harry's self-defence instruction group, which will be called Dumbledore's Army, in a sarcastic nod to the Ministry belief.

Harry is correct that it is only a matter of time before everyone knows he and Dumbledore are right. For now, Voldemort remains hidden, creating doubt and confusion while he builds his power base and slowly infiltrates key Wizarding institutions. Once his power is secure, we can assume he will reveal his presence. Until then, Harry must bear many schoolmates' doubts and disdain.

Chapter 12: Professor Umbridge

[edit] Synopsis

The next morning begins nearly as frustratingly as the previous night ended. Seamus leaves the room as quickly as possible without speaking to Harry. Hermione says Lavender Brown is skeptical about Harry’s story, as well.

At breakfast, there is still no sign of Hagrid. Hermione suggests that Professor Dumbledore has not mentioned it to avoid drawing attention to Hagrid's absence. Harry is braced by Angelina Johnson, who has been made Quidditch captain. With Oliver Wood gone, they need a new Keeper, and will be having try-outs on Friday. Angelina wants everyone there. Professor McGonagall hands out class schedules, which seem particularly strenuous this year. Fred and George offer their defective Skiving Snackboxes for a discount, then discuss their lack of concern for school. George mentions that they considered not returning to Hogwarts and says they will spend their last year doing market research for their joke shop. George hints that they have financial backing, sidestepping questions about where the money is coming from.

During a break in their morning classes, the Trio run into Cho Chang. She apparently wants to talk to Harry, but Ron insults her favorite Quidditch team, which causes her to leave, and earns him a scolding from Hermione. Harry’s spirits are further dampened, both by the loss of the chance to talk to Cho and by his friends' bickering, as they head to Snape’s dungeon for Potions. Snape gives them a particularly difficult potion. When Harry misses part of the instructions, Snape singles him out and Vanishes his entire mixture, earning him no marks for the entire lesson. Luckily, the following Divination lesson is uneventful.

In Professor Umbridge’s classroom, students are instructed to put away their wands and take notes. Professor Umbridge announces that they will be learning a "Ministry-approved course of defensive magic this year." After giving the course aims, she instructs the class to read the first chapter of their textbooks, but Hermione sits defiantly with her hand raised until Professor Umbridge is forced to call on her. Hermione notes that there are no course aims concerning the actual use of any defensive spells, to which Umbridge replies, "I can’t imagine any situation arising in my classroom that would require you to use a defensive spell." Instead, students will study the theory and perform the spells for the first time at their examinations in the spring.

This leads to a heated discussion about the necessity of learning practical Defence Against the Dark Arts, in which Professor Umbridge says that Harry’s claims that Voldemort has returned are a lie. Harry reacts angrily, telling the class that Cedric Diggory was murdered, not accidentally killed as Umbridge stated. Harry is sent to Professor McGonagall’s office with a note detailing his detention. McGonagall sternly warns him to tread carefully around Dolores Umbridge—the Ministry of Magic is interfering at Hogwarts.

[edit] Analysis

Although this is Fred and George's final year, there is little left for them to learn. Despite their poor academic achievements, they are extremely powerful, talented, and resourceful wizards who, much like Harry, learn best independently when in an unstructured environment and for their own interest. Readers should remember that Harry donated his Triwizard winnings to them to finance their joke shop enterprise, and the Twins have hardly been idle. They now have the necessary funding, have developed the magic, and produced the products; now they are only biding their time until school ends and they can open their own shop in Diagon Alley.

A few other events of note happen in this chapter. Harry is again reminded of Hagrid's absence, and is once again drawn to wonder exactly what mission Dumbledore had set him and Madame Maxime. We once again see Snape's hatred of Harry; it is particularly interesting that the instruction that Harry misses seems to be written to be confusing. We learn of Professor Umbridge's horrible teaching style, her useless planned curriculum, and her hatred of Harry and Hermione in particular. And we see that Cho now is trying to talk to Harry, and is being served as ill by Harry's friends as Harry was, before the Yule Ball the previous year, by the convoys of giggling girls that seemed to surround Cho when Harry was trying to invite her to the Ball.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Hermione believe that Professor Dumbledore does not want to draw attention to Hagrid's absence?
2. How does the "Ministry approved" course of defensive arts compare to how former classes were taught? Why has it been changed?
3. Why would the Ministry claim Cedric Diggory's death was an accident?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why might the Ministry of Magic prevent students from learning defensive spells?
2. Should Harry have spoken out in class? How else could he have handled the situation?
3. Why does Professor McGonagall ask Harry, "Do you really think this is about truth or lies? It's about keeping your head down and your temper under control!" During troublesome times, is it wiser to protest early on or wait for a more opportune time?
4. Why does Harry ignore McGonagall's advice, and what will likely result from that? What could Harry have done instead?

[edit] Greater Picture

It is immediately clear that Dolores Umbridge is at Hogwarts for some reason other than teaching Defensive Arts. That she was personally appointed by the Ministry strongly indicates that she is Fudge's spy. Although there is no indication that either Fudge or Umbridge are Death Eaters or even Voldemort sympathizers, they likely share a paranoid belief that Dumbledore is training students to build a secret wizard army to take over the Ministry of Magic. Her job is to prevent students from learning real defensive magic, although she probably has a personal agenda for Hogwarts. She and Harry immediately clash over how the class will be taught and the Ministry's stance that Cedric Diggory's death was a "tragic accident." Umbridge's claims regarding Diggory are laughable, but demonstrates how far the Ministry will go to discredit Harry and Dumbledore and to protect the Ministry. Unfortunately, Harry is unable or unwilling to accept McGonagall's advice to remain quiet, and instead provokes Umbridge, earning him detention and giving her fodder for imposing even stricter rules. Harry, however, has yet to realize just how severe his punishment will be and how evil Umbridge likely is.

While we only see Umbridge teaching Harry's class, we will shortly find out that she teaches many other classes as well. Fred and George, in year 7, apparently have her as a teacher as well, as they had earlier asked "who had assigned the Slinkhard book" for the course; and later, Lee Jordan will get into trouble in her class and serve detention. This also allows some speculation on exactly which courses Fred and George managed to get decent OWL marks. In the previous year, the first after the Twins' OWL results were available, the Defence Against the Dark Arts instructor was the false Professor Moody. Moody was clearly a very stern, though fair, teacher, and as such he would have probably required at least Exceeds Expectations at OWL-level before he would accept a student into NEWT-level Defence Against the Dark Arts, all the more so as he was likely to be training them in more dangerous jinxes and curses. We can guess, then, that the Twins must have managed to achieve Exceeds Expectations in Defence Against the Dark Arts, this being one of their three passable OWL marks apiece.

We should mention that there is widespread dissatisfaction with Umbridge's teaching. Hermione will later suggest that Harry should start teaching a more practical Defence course; the resulting organization, much to Harry's initial dismay, will attract some twenty-five or more students. This organization, called Dumbledore's Army, being a rebellion against Umbridge, will at times be Harry's one cheering influence in what could arguably be the worst year he will have at Hogwarts.

Chapter 13: Detention with Dolores

[edit] Synopsis

Over dinner, against a background of skeptical whispers about what Harry said in Professor Umbridge's classroom, Harry, Ron, and Hermione discuss Harry’s confrontation with her. Hermione suggests that most people doubt Harry’s story because there was so little concrete evidence. The trio heads to Gryffindor Tower to do homework where they find Fred and George using First Years to test Fainting Fancies for their Skiving Snackboxes line. Hermione chastises them and threatens to inform Mrs. Weasley, which stops their testing, but to her dismay, Ron refuses to support her. Upset, she goes off to bed, leaving knitted hats on the table, expecting house-elves to pick them up and thus be freed.

Harry is increasingly nervous; teachers are briefing students about upcoming Ordinary Wizarding Levels exams and piling on astonishing amounts of homework. Hagrid is still missing, and his class is taken by Professor Grubbly-Plank. Harry’s stress level only increases when team captain Angelina Johnson yells at him because his detention conflicts with Quidditch tryouts on Friday night.

Harry arrives for his first detention with Professor Umbridge. Her office is decorated with doilies and colored kittens on plates. Harry sits at a table and takes out a quill to write lines, but Umbridge instead gives him a black quill and says he will not need any ink. As Harry begins writing "I must not tell lies," a cut appears on the back of his hand in the same shape as the letters he writes. As it instantly heals over, he realizes that the words written on the parchment are in his own blood. Over and over, he silently writes the lines, each time carving them into his skin. When Umbridge finally allows him to stop, the back of his hand is raw and sore. Harry is so late getting back to the dormitory that he has to finish his homework the next morning. He is surprised to find Ron doing the same. Ron's excuse that he went for a walk causes Harry to suspect Ron is hiding something. Uncertain why, Harry decides to say nothing about his punishment.

Harry’s detentions continue every night. As he leaves on Thursday, the words are permanently cut into his hand. Heading to Gryffindor Tower, he runs into Ron, who tries hiding his broomstick. Ron admits he has been practicing to try out for Quidditch Keeper, which pleases Harry. Ron notices Harry’s hand and forces him to tell the truth. He encourages Harry to tell Professor McGonagall, but Harry feels it is a private battle.

As he leaves the final detention the next night, Umbridge grabs his hand to check his work, and his scar burns. He departs rapidly and returns to Gryffindor tower where a small party is underway: Ron has been chosen as Keeper. Harry tells Hermione about his scar hurting, and she urges him to tell Professor Dumbledore. Harry replies, "That’s the only bit of me Dumbledore cares about, isn’t it, my scar?" Harry decides to write Sirius instead, but Hermione reminds him about Moody's warning to avoid putting anything on paper that can be intercepted. With no solution, they both head for bed.

[edit] Analysis

Although Umbridge's cruel detention is likely illegal, Harry stubbornly refuses to report it, preferring to engage in a silent battle of wills. He is determined to prove he can take anything she metes out. His anger at Dumbledore over his ignoring him may also be a motivating factor, though as it is Professor McGonagall he would be discussing this detention with, this is not entirely likely.

Harry is surprised and suspicious that his scar burns when Umbridge touches his hand. The only time it has hurt previously is when there is some association with Voldemort. Hermione is unsure whether Umbridge is being controlled by Voldemort, but she advises Harry to tell Dumbledore about it. Feeling slighted by Dumbledore, who has apparently avoided face-to-face meetings since summer, is likely a partial reason for Harry's refusal to speak to him. The observant reader may have noticed that Umbridge touched Harry's hand after the first night's detention without Harry's scar reacting. It may be concluded that the painful twinge he felt during his last detention was merely a coincidence.

Hermione's plan to free House-elves is noble and just, however it is also poorly thought out and possibly harmful. A house elf, we have learned, is freed if it receives clothing from its master. Though the house elves at Hogwarts do serve the students, including Hermione, it is unlikely that she would be considered their master to a sufficient degree to free them. Even if a House-elf was freed by taking her "gifts", she has little consideration about what would happen to them after being liberated. While Dobby and Winky were employed by Dumbledore out of kindness, Dobby's experience after leaving the Malfoy household indicates that it is unlikely many wizard families or businesses would hire a "free agent" elf, leaving newly independent House-elves with few resources or the means to earn a living. Changes must first be made within the wizarding society, and then the resources provided for elves to survive and prosper in a new order. Even then, many wizards will be resistant to change and will likely discriminate against these newly equal citizens. Hermione is also forgetting that many House-elves, like Winky, have no wish to be free. Being enslaved for centuries has warped and reshaped their perceptions, and their identities and social status are strongly tied to the families they serve; their beliefs will need to be readjusted as well.

When Ron admits he has been secretly practicing for Quidditch tryouts, Harry is surprised but supportive. That Ron never told Harry what he was doing nor asked for his help may indicate that he is independently attempting to develop his own abilities and identity. Ron has been overshadowed by his talented older brothers, and also by his association with Harry, making it difficult for him to set himself apart.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. What does Hermione believe is the reason people are skeptical of Harry's story about Voldemort?
2. Why does Hermione become angry with Ron for what Fred and George are doing? What does she threaten to do that gets the Twins to stop?
3. What is Ron secretly doing and why doesn't he tell anyone? What is Harry's reaction when he finds out?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why would Harry's scar hurt when Umbridge touches him? What does Harry think?
2. Why does Harry refuse to report Umbridge's cruel detention?
3. Why is Harry angry with Dumbledore? What might be the reason for Dumbledore's odd behavior towards Harry?

[edit] Greater Picture

Harry's scar will hurt again after a Quidditch practice later in the story. When that happens, he remembers it hurting when Umbridge touched his hand while they were in her office. At that time, he concludes that in Umbridge's office, his scar had hurt because Voldemort was happy about something. It is possible that Voldemort had either just determined how to retrieve the Prophecy from the Ministry, or had just discovered that one stage in the plan had been successful. He has either decided to use the Imperius curse on someone in the Ministry to force them to bring the Prophecy to him, or has heard that someone has been so cursed. That plan originated with Avery, who will suffer when it fails. We will shortly discover that Sturgis Podmore, who had been expected as one of Harry's guards for the trip to King's Cross Station, had been arrested trying to get through a sealed door at the Ministry. While it is possible that it was Sturgis' attempt at the Prophecy that Voldemort was happy about, Sturgis had gone missing a week before, and it is unlikely that he would have been cursed, arrested, tried, convicted, and had the news reach the Daily Prophet in the roughly eight hours between Harry's scar paining him and the arrival of the Prophet at breakfast the next day. Given the timing, it is much more likely that Voldemort had received news that the Unspeakable, Broderick Bode, had been placed under the curse, for a second attempt at the Prophecy.

Before this revelation is granted to us, though, Sirius will speak with Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Sirius will pass along the Order's belief that, though she is a bad bit of work, Umbridge is not directly under Voldemort's control. Sirius will be of the opinion that the pain that occurred when Umbridge touched Harry's hand was merely a coincidence, and later events in the story will bear out his statement.

As is so often the case, the detention, and the pain that Harry suffers, will not change his beliefs; nor will the second round of detentions that he suffers when he speaks out again in Umbridge's classroom. It will, however, drive his rebellion against her and her teaching underground, and will to a large extent be an impetus towards his acceptance of Hermione's idea that he should head an extra-curricular Defence Against the Dark Arts group.

Hermione's attempt to free the House Elves will be an utter failure, as the result will be that the only House Elf willing to work in Gryffindor Tower will be Dobby. When Harry next sees him, he will be wearing a large quantity of Hermione's knitted hats, and will tell Harry that the other house elves will not work in Gryffindor tower because of them. "They finds them insulting, sir." Out of consideration for Hermione's feelings, Harry will not pass this information on to Hermione, and Hermione will continue to knit elf hats throughout the year.

Chapter 14: Percy and Padfoot

[edit] Synopsis

The next morning, Harry writes Sirius a letter about Professor Umbridge and his burning scar. He uses a code name and shared experiences to encode the contents (such as saying Umbridge is, "almost as nice as your mum"). In the Owlery, he sends Hedwig off with the letter. Looking out, he sees one of the skeletal black horses flying over the Forbidden Forest. Cho Chang suddenly arrives to mail a birthday gift. She is furious at Umbridge for denying that Voldemort has returned. They are interrupted by Filch, who accuses Harry of sending for a large order of Dungbombs, and he demands to see the letter he was sending. Cho stands up to Filch, saying that the letter was already gone, and Harry is almost inordinately pleased.

At breakfast Hermione reads a story in the Daily Prophet implying that Sirius was spotted in London. Harry thinks Lucius Malfoy recognized Sirius' Animagus dog form at King's Cross station. Harry also reads that Order member Sturgis Podmore was arrested after attempting to break into a sealed door at the Ministry of Magic. Ron thinks he was lured into a trap. Hermione agrees.

Harry and Ron attend Quidditch practice, but they are harassed by Slytherins. Ron is particularly singled out with insults. Flustered, he passes the Quaffle to Katie Bell so enthusiastically that it slips through her hands and hits her face, causing a nosebleed. Fred and George apply what they think is the healing end of a Nosebleed Nougat, but instead give her a Blood Blisterpod and have to take her the hospital wing, ending the practice.

Late that night, Ron receives a letter from his brother, Percy, congratulating him on becoming a Prefect. He writes he is relieved that Ron has not followed in Fred and George's "footsteps," and advises that he steer himself away from their parents' misguided beliefs and actions. Percy also warns Ron to disassociate himself from Harry and Professor Dumbledore and hints there may soon be a change at Hogwarts. He goes on to commend Dolores Umbridge, believing she is a fine, upstanding person and an asset to the school. Furious, Ron rips apart the letter.

Shortly after, Sirius' head appears in the Gryffindor fireplace. He tells Harry that he does not believe Umbridge is a Death Eater, and that his scar hurting was probably just Voldemort experiencing a strong emotional reaction to something. When Harry complains that Umbridge is not letting them perform magic, Sirius says it is because a paranoid Fudge fears that Dumbledore is secretly building a wizard army to take over the Ministry. Harry asks about Hagrid, but Sirius says he does not know where he is, but that Dumbledore is not worried. He warns against drawing attention to Hagrid's absence. When Sirius suggests meeting Harry and the others while in his Animagus dog form at the next Hogsmeade weekend, both Harry and Hermione sternly tell him it is too dangerous. Sirius chides Harry for being so cautious, saying that his father, James, would have loved taking the risk. And with a faint pop, he vanishes.

[edit] Analysis

Two people's personalities are becoming more apparent — Sirius and Percy.

Although Sirius is still an attentive and loving godfather, his reckless behavior is increasing. When he suggests meeting Harry in Hogsmeade in his Animagus dog form, it is the students who tell the adult that it is too dangerous, remembering that Sirius was recognized by the Malfoys at the train station. Sirius chides Harry for being so cautious, saying that his father, James, loved taking risks. Unfortunately, Sirius' emotional development has been stunted by his years in Azkaban, impairing his judgment and causing him to treat Harry more like his peer rather than his ward. Molly Weasley had earlier felt it necessary to remind Sirius that Harry is not James Potter. Sirius is likely to decline mentally as the story progresses. His confinement to Grimmauld Place, a house he has always hated, is another prison. He is often left alone, accompanied primarily by his hate-spewing, mad mother's portrait, and a surly and insulting House-elf. Constantly hiding from the authorities and unable to live a normal life is stressful and causes Sirius to become increasingly sullen and irritable, leading to his careless and rash behavior. However, insanity and mental instability are also prevalent in the Black family, and Sirius appears to show symptoms similar to those exhibited by his cousin, Bellatrix Lestrange.

Percy's growing estrangement from his family has reached a breaking point and his career ambition blinds him to what is actually happening within the Ministry of Magic and the wizarding world at large; he will continue to adamantly support the Ministry's stance that Voldemort has not been resurrected. The other Weasleys' assertion that he is a Ministry pawn being used to garner information about Harry and Dumbledore only offends Percy. He firmly believes his rapid advancement within the Ministry of Magic is due to his abilities, rather than his connections. Whether or not Percy can realign his faulty judgment and reconcile with his family is unknown until the final book.

We also see another step in the growing romance between Cho and Harry. Finally, they have a chance to talk, without Stinksap or Quidditch-inspired animosity, and Harry finds that Cho is whole-heartedly on his side, sharing his and Dumbledore's beliefs unquestioningly. While neither we nor Harry have any idea whether this will go anywhere, after this meeting Harry at least has some hope, as we do, that Cho and Harry will become a couple. This, actually, is an interesting illustration of how the author has chosen to avoid certain young adult fiction stereotypes. The series, covering seven years of Harry's life, will of necessity cover his maturation, and as most young men do at this stage in their lives, he will start having romantic thoughts; his relationship with Cho, as we have seen, takes a realistically long time to grow, and is visited by a very natural set of setbacks and issues. The author has here rejected the standard scheme of having the romance entirely contained within one book of the series, instead having it mature as a real romance does.

One small highlight also is cast on the character of James Potter, when Sirius points out that he would have loved the risk. Readers may begin to wonder here how much Harry is James' son, and how much he is Lily's.

Filch appearing with an obviously specious story about Harry ordering dungbombs is somewhat odd. Harry himself wonders who could have told Filch that; this question is never answered, but the reader, like Harry, suspects a connection with Umbridge.

Readers may wonder how Lucius Malfoy could recognize Sirius in his dog Animagus form. Peter Pettigrew, as readers most certainly remember, was a close friend of Sirius' in their school days, and will have seen him transform numerous times, as Sirius did Pettigrew. Pettigrew will likely have described Sirius' Animagus form to Voldemort, and Voldemort in turn may have passed that on to his Death Eaters. We are never told why Voldemort would have been interested enough in Sirius to prime his Death Eaters to spot him, but it is likely that Pettigrew's confirmation that he was still alive, his having escaped Azkaban, and the likelihood of his joining Dumbledore made it worth keeping an eye out for him.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Sirius chide Harry for being cautious? Is this appropriate? Why or why not?
2. What does Filch accuse Harry of doing in the Owlery? Could there be another reason he's interrogating Harry about his owl post?
3. Why is Ron angry at Percy? Is Ron justified?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why does Sirius warn the Trio about drawing attention to Hagrid's absence? Does he know more than he is letting on?
2. Why would Percy advise Ron to stop associating with Harry and Dumbledore?
3. What does Sirius say that Cornelius Fudge thinks Dumbledore is planning? What would lead Fudge to believe this, and could it be true?
4. What is Percy's opinion of Dolores Umbridge? Why might he think that?
5. What change at Hogwarts might Percy be hinting at?

[edit] Greater Picture

Percy remains estranged from his family until the final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Finally realizing he was wrong, he arrives at Hogwarts just prior to the final battle, apologizing to his family for his stupidity. He joins forces with Harry and the other allies against Voldemort and his Death Eaters.

While Harry and Cho's relationship may now proceed, ultimately it will be doomed by Cho's need to revisit Cedric's death, a loss for which she has not yet reached closure. We do not see this yet, and will not until Christmas, when Harry and Cho kiss under the mistletoe. At that point, Hermione will give Harry and Ron a quick rundown of Cho's current emotional state, which will explain most of her interactions with Harry since September.

Surprisingly, Umbridge seems to realize the value of having Argus Filch on her side. Quite possibly, Umbridge recognizes a kindred soul, as she hates the students almost as much as Filch seems to. It is also possible that she recognizes that among the staff, she has no other allies; even the Slytherin Head of House, Professor Snape, seems to not be in favour of her appointment. Immediately after the attempted arrest of Dumbledore, we will see that Filch believes that he will shortly be allowed to torture the students physically for malfeasance. Many readers believe that Umbridge has promised this to Filch, but has no plans to carry out her promise. It is certainly true that Filch never seems to get permission to whip or chain any students during the remainder of Umbridge's tenure.

While it is never confirmed, it is likely that Podmore's attempt to break through a sealed door at the Ministry was done while he was under the Imperius curse, trying to retrieve the Prophecy that Voldemort is seeking. A later attempt, which we will learn of later in the year, will involve an Unspeakable, Bode. In that attempt, Bode will be placed under the Imperius curse by Lucius Malfoy. Harry will guess that the reason Lucius had been at the Ministry on the day of Harry's hearing, was that he was trying to find someone he could curse to retrieve the Prophecy. While Podmore failed because he was unable to open a sealed door, Bode will fail due to a curse placed on the Prophecy itself – as an Unspeakable, he is cleared to work in the Department of Mysteries.

Chapter 15: The Hogwarts High Inquisitor

[edit] Synopsis

The next day at breakfast, Hermione reads in the Daily Prophet that the Ministry of Magic has appointed Dolores Umbridge "High Inquisitor." Umbridge now has extensive power over Hogwarts and can arbitrarily impose new rules and regulations. She apparently intends to evaluate all teachers and classes. At lunch, after Harry receives a D (for Dreadful) on his Potions homework, he asks Fred and George about inspected classes. Fred says when Umbridge inspected Charms class, Flitwick just ignored her. Harry arrives at Divination to find Umbridge there with a clipboard. She begins taking notes as a nervous Professor Trelawney teaches. Umbridge demands that she make some predictions during class, and is apparently unimpressed with the result.

During Defence Against the Dark Arts class, Umbridge claims that Professor Quirrell was the only other Defensive Arts teacher likely to have received Ministry approval. Harry retorts that there was only the small matter of Voldemort being stuck on the back of his head, thus earning himself another week's detention. The next morning, Angelina Johnson is so angered over Harry receiving another detention that she begins berating him, bringing Professor McGonagall down from head table; McGonagall penalizes Harry five House points for provoking Umbridge despite her earlier warning.

In Transfiguration, Professor McGonagall rudely ignores Umbridge's inspection and slaps her down like a student when Umbridge tries to ask a question during class. Umbridge, however, is delighted with Professor Grubbly-Plank's Care of Magical Creatures class, although Grubbly-Plank is only substituting for the still-absent Hagrid. Harry, however, loses his temper when Draco says he was injured in Hagrid's class by a Hippogriff, earning him another day's detention.

Hermione is also fed up with Umbridge's ineffective teaching. When Harry returns to the common room after this final detention, she suggests that he teach Defence Against the Dark Arts to students. Harry is reluctant, feeling he is unqualified, but Hermione and Ron point out that he already knows much that he could teach to others about defensive magic, and he has always earned top marks, even beating Hermione. Harry is angered at the thought. Although they may think he knows all this, he believes he has just winged it, it was luck, and had other people's help. Hermione, abashed, says that Harry is the only one who knows what it is like to actually face Voldemort. Harry grudgingly agrees to consider it. He goes to bed, where he again dreams about long corridors and locked doors.

[edit] Analysis

Umbridge's promotion allows her to abuse power, and she immediately begins imposing her will on Hogwarts. That she is evaluating teachers far more competent than herself shows she has an ulterior motive, possibly to weed out those she considers unworthy to teach at Hogwarts, mainly anyone non-human. However, she has apparently also targeted the thoroughly human Professor Trelawney, and probably Professor McGonagall, who openly opposes her. It seems the only teacher Umbridge approves of is Professor Grubbly-Plank, a competent teacher who is substituting for the still-absent Hagrid, although Umbridge's enthusiasm may have less to do with Grubbly-Plank's abilities than with finding a reason for sacking Hagrid as the Care of Magical Creatures instructor.

It is perhaps a point of interest that we here see what may be the only time in the entire story that we sympathize with Umbridge even a little. Umbridge quite clearly sees that Divination class is pure nonsense, and is not at all taken in by Professor Trelawney's fortune-telling. Harry, of course, is of the same opinion, and probably privately wishes he had left the course when Hermione had. However, readers, like Harry, probably cringe at Umbridge's technique.

Harry, meanwhile, continues to provoke Umbridge, stubbornly disregarding McGonagall's warning, which causes her to deduct House points. He is also unhappy again with what his fame and exploits have brought him when Hermione and Ron urge him to secretly teach Defensive Magic. Although Harry believes he lacks the necessary skills, Ron enumerates Harry's accomplishment from each year he has been at Hogwarts, and it is an impressive list. In the face of this, Harry tries to repudiate every one, claiming it was just luck or other people's help, rather than anything innate in him. Harry's reluctance to teach others may stem from several factors, such as lack of self-esteem; he may simply believe he is unqualified. Also, being a somewhat lazy student, he would have to put in extra work to prepare lessons. However, there may be some false modesty involved here, as he has always excelled in this subject and his abilities are more advanced than most other students. There is also Harry's ever-present need to "go it alone", and by organizing and teaching other students, he essentially becomes their leader in the fight against Umbridge and also Voldemort.

Readers may discern a slight plot hole. Presumably, the sixth and particularly the seventh-year students should be fairly well trained in basic defensive magic by now and capable of performing many of the same spells and curses that Harry has prematurely learned independently. Harry even comments that Cedric Diggory, who was an older student, already knew much of what he is teaching. However, the other students have never been in combat with Death Eaters or Voldemort; only Harry can share that experience.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Hermione, who always follows rules, want Harry to secretly teach defensive magic?
2. Why is Harry reluctant to teach Defensive Arts to other students?
3. Why would the Ministry of Magic appoint a High Inquisitor at Hogwarts?
4. Why is Umbridge evaluating teachers and their classes? What is the teachers' reaction to her?
5. Why does Malfoy tell Umbridge he was once attacked by a Hippogriff? What is Harry's reaction, and why?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why is Umbridge particularly pleased with Professor Grubbly-Plank, the substitute teacher for the Care of Magical Creatures class? Is it because Grubbly-Plank is such a great instructor, or is there another reason?
2. Why does Harry continually provoke Umbridge, knowing the consequences and despite McGonagall's stern warning?

[edit] Greater Picture

Although Trelawney is hardly an exceptional teacher, Umbridge may be targeting her for other reasons. Trelawney is tied to a Prophecy regarding Harry and Voldemort, a fact Umbridge probably knows about since a copy is stored within the Department of Mysteries at the Ministry of Magic, though Umbridge likely does not know the contents of the Prophecy. Dumbledore knows that Trelawney is vulnerable, and, despite her meager talents, hired her as the Divination teacher to protect her and the prophecy. If she were ever outside Hogwarts' protective walls, it is likely Voldemort would have her captured and use any means possible to extract the prophecy from her memory before killing her. Umbridge may want to eliminate the prophecy's source by dismissing Trelawney and ejecting her from the castle (probably knowing she would be in danger by surviving Death Eaters) to remove credence to Harry's claims that Voldemort has returned.

While Hermione is making this sound as if it is just herself and Ron who are interested in the possibility of Harry teaching Defence, she will later mention this to several other people, and the word will spread to other Houses. As a result, and rather to Harry's dismay, the idea "will prove to be quite popular," in Hermione's words, and about 28 students will arrive at the Hog's Head for the organizational meeting. Despite his initial reluctance to teach Defence Against the Dark Arts, Harry will prove to be an excellent and inspiring instructor, and the classes help him learn to rely on and trust others. Teaching becomes something he will truly enjoy and look forward to.

Harry continually insists that he has accomplished less than people claim he has, a belief that is not fully understood by Ron until the seventh book. In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Harry talks about how Ron saved his life and used the Sword of Gryffindor to destroy one of Voldemort's Horcruxes. Ron claims that Harry makes it sound more impressive than it actually was, to which Harry responds that that is what he (Harry) has been saying about himself for years. Regardless of whether or not it was luck or other people who had helped him, Harry has gained considerable skills and knowledge through these experiences, which is how he learns best.

Harry's dreams about corridors and locked doors are actually real scenes of Voldemort's deepest desires, played back through a telepathic link between him and Harry. Voldemort is still unaware that this link exists or that Harry can see what he is thinking. This will change near Christmas when Harry experiences an attack on Arthur Weasley through Voldemort's eyes. Following this, Harry's dreams become sharper and more directed. At the book's end, it will be learned that once Voldemort learned the link existed, the visions were actually being deliberately directed into Harry's mind.

An interesting little circle starts here. Hermione recommends Essence of Murtlap tentacles to soothe Harry's injured hand after his final detention night. When Lee Jordan later receives detention from Umbridge, Harry suggests Essence of Murtlap to ease the pain. Lee apparently suggests Essence of Murtlap to Fred and George when they mention a side effect of one of their Skiving Snackboxes. The Murtlap cures the boils that appear on a rather private anatomy part when the Snackbox is used. So, Hermione is indirectly helping the Twins with one of their products, which would probably anger her if she knew.

Chapter 16: In the Hog's Head

[edit] Synopsis

Only after Harry's detention with Umbridge has ended a fortnight later does Hermione dare ask if Harry has considered teaching Defence Against the Dark Arts. Harry admits he has, and Ron is relieved that Harry has not started shouting again. Hermione recommends opening the class to anyone wanting to learn, although Harry believes only a few will attend. He is, after all, "a nutter." Hermione suggests the first meeting take place during the next Hogsmeade weekend to avoid Umbridge. Harry is concerned that Sirius might show up in Hogsmeade, but Hermione says he has enough worry about, and Sirius listens to Dumbledore.

As Harry, Ron, and Hermione head for Hogsmeade, Filch sniffs at Harry before allowing him to leave. Harry relates the incident in the Owlery and says someone told Filch he was ordering Dungbombs. Hermione wonders who tipped Filch off. In Hogsmeade, Hermione steers them to a side street leading to the Hog's Head Inn, a small and rather unsavoury establishment, which Hermione confirms is not off limits to Hogwarts students. Only four patrons are there, a much-bandaged wizard, a witch under a veil, and two wizards hooded and caped like Dementors. Harry notes that the bartender looks familiar and has a distinct goat odor. When the "couple of people" Hermione invited arrive, Harry is stunned at how many there are: Neville, Dean, Lavender, Parvati and Padma Patil, Cho and a friend of hers that Harry did not recognize, Luna Lovegood, Katie Bell, Alicia Spinnet, Angelina Johnson, Colin and Dennis Creevey, Ernie Macmillan, Justin Finch-Fletchley, Hannah Abbott, a Hufflepuff girl Harry did not recognize, who later identifies herself as Susan Bones, Anthony Goldstein, Michael Corner, Terry Boot, Ginny, a member of the Hufflepuff Quidditch team (later identified as Zacharias Smith), Fred and George, and Lee Jordan. Curiously, there are no Slytherins.

Hermione starts off by reminding everyone why they are there, then Harry says that if they have come to hear what happened to Cedric Diggory, then too bad, he will not discuss it. Harry has only agreed to teach defensive magic. Zacharias Smith seems skeptical, but the other students list Harry's accomplishments, and Zacharias, under half-joking threats from Fred and George, subsides. They agree to meet when a location is found. Hermione has everyone sign a piece of parchment, an agreement to keep the group secret. The meeting then breaks up.

As they continue shopping, Hermione mentions that Michael Corner probably attended because Ginny was there. She and Michael met at the Yule Ball the previous year. While Ginny had her sights on Harry, she has since given up. Ron is incensed that Michael Corner dares to go out with his sister, although Harry is less concerned. Hermione says that Cho never took her eyes off Harry throughout the meeting, and Harry suddenly realizes that Hogsmeade is a truly beautiful place.

[edit] Analysis

The strong turnout for the Defensive Arts meeting may be motivated as much or even more by the students' curiosity about Cedric Diggory's death, than by an interest in learning proper defensive magic. Harry's comment that most consider him a "nutter" is probably true, but he has done little to help overcome that perception, preferring to withhold details about his confrontation with Voldemort and internalize his emotions—an action reflecting his constant need to face adversity alone. Regardless, the students agree to give the lessons a try, although many probably still doubt Harry's claim about Voldemort's resurrection.

While Harry may still be reluctant to teach the class, it has provided one benefit—an opportunity to get closer to Cho Chang, who Harry now knows is interested in him. Ron, meanwhile, is upset that Michael Corner is interested in Ginny, although it seems that this has little to do with Michael himself and more to do with Ron being the protective older brother. He may feel that no one is suitable to date his little sister. It is certainly suggestive that Ron does not comment on his distrust of Corner until after Hermione mentions the attachment.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Hermione choose the Hog's Head Inn to have the meeting at? Was this effective?
2. Why does Harry think few students will be interested in attending the meeting?
3. What seems to be the main reason students want to join Harry's defensive arts class? What does Harry tell them?
4. Why is Zacharias Smith skeptical about Harry teaching defensive magic?
5. What is Harry's reaction when Hermione mentions Cho Chang? Why?

[edit] Further Study

1. Does Hermione deliberately omit Slytherin students from the Defense Against the Dark Arts group? If so, why? If not, why are none included?
2. Why is Ron upset that Michael Corner wants to date his sister, Ginny?
3. Hermione has everyone sign the parchment containing a vow of secrecy. How can she trust them to keep their word? Does she trust them?

[edit] Greater Picture

Of the four customers in the Hog's Head Inn, two were rather more interested in the students' meeting than perhaps Harry would have liked. The veiled witch in the corner is Mundungus Fletcher, who was watching over Hogsmeade for the Order of the Phoenix; he was disguised because he had evidently been barred from the Hog's Head, at least according to Sirius in the next chapter. And the much-bandaged wizard drinking Firewhisky at the bar is Willy Widdershins, who is in some trouble with the Ministry for charming toilets to make them regurgitate on Muggles. It is likely that he is in disguise because he is evading arrest. Hoping to beat the penalties for the charges, he reports the meeting to Umbridge, as is discovered in Chapter 27.

Although Hermione requires each student to sign a parchment bearing an oath of secrecy, she does not trust everyone and secretly insures that any "snitches" will be revealed. Unknown to the students who join this Defensive Arts teaching group, soon to be known as Dumbledore's Army, Hermione secretly jinxed the parchment that they signed to reveal the identity of anyone who divulges information about the group. When Marietta Edgecombe later tells Umbridge about the secret meetings, she is horrified when purple pimples spelling "snitch" break out across her face.

Associated with that, we here see the beginnings of an interesting bit of misdirection. The eventual betrayer of the group, Edgecombe, is deliberately kept to the periphery of the group, saying nothing apart from the occasional sigh or fidget. Zacharias Smith, with his obvious skepticism, is being presented to us as the most likely to betray the group; his attitude will continue at least into the first actual meeting of the group, which takes place in the Room of Requirement. Willy Widdershins' report to Umbridge following the initial meeting will result in a ban on student organizations. This in turn will cause Harry and Ron, at least initially, to believe that the group has been betrayed by one of the members there present; while the readers' suspicions will fall immediately on Smith, Ron will jump to the conclusion that it was Michael Corner, based apparently on Corner's relationship with Ginny. Edgecombe's betrayal of the group will come as a surprise to us.

The innkeeper at the Hog's Head looks familiar for a reason—he is Aberforth Dumbledore, Professor Dumbledore's younger brother, as many readers guessed instantly. An extremely large clue is the odour of goat that Harry notices as he enters; readers will remember that in the previous book, Professor Dumbledore had mentioned that his brother had been convicted of practicing inappropriate charms on a goat. Aberforth will play an important role in the final book.

Chapter 17: Educational Decree Number Twenty-Four

[edit] Synopsis

In the common room on Monday, Harry and Ron find a large notice announcing Educational Decree Number Twenty Four, outlawing all unapproved student organizations. All current student groups have been disbanded and must request approval from Professor Umbridge to reform. Harry says that someone must have informed Umbridge about their meeting. Ron suggests Zacharias Smith or Michael Corner, and sets off to tell Hermione. She says that no one from the meeting could have told because she secretly enchanted the parchment everyone signed to reveal any snitches who break the vow of secrecy.

Approached at breakfast by Fred, George, Ginny, Neville, and Dean, Harry says that despite the decree, they are going ahead with the defence class. Hermione says the prefects will be joining as well. Hermione waves off some members approaching from Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff, saying she will talk to them later. Angelina Johnson is deeply dismayed by this decree, because it also bans Quidditch teams, and she will have to request permission to reform the Gryffindor team. She begs Harry not to upset Umbridge again.

During Harry's History of Magic class, Hedwig appears on the windowsill carrying a message from Sirius, but her wing has been injured. Harry takes her to Professor Grubbly-Plank in the staff room, who says Hedwig was attacked but can be healed. Sirius' message is extremely short: "Tonight, same time, same place." Professor McGonagall, who is also in the staff room, reminds Harry that all communication channels may be monitored. Hermione wonders later if someone tried to intercept Hedwig. Harry, trying to reassure himself, points out that the message was still sealed.

Before Potions class, Draco Malfoy makes a rude comment about people with mental infirmities staying at St. Mungo's. Neville, pushed beyond endurance, tries to fight him. Harry and Ron restrain him, just as Snape arrives. Seeing the scuffle, he promptly penalizes Gryffindor ten House points. Ron asks what that was all about, but Harry, though he knows that Death Eaters tortured Neville's parents to insanity, keeps his promise to Dumbledore and says nothing. Professor Umbridge is present and taking notes. She asks how long Snape has been teaching, and he replies fourteen years. In response to her questions, he also says that he has applied repeatedly for the Defence Against the Dark Arts post, and was always refused. Umbridge asks why and Snape suggests she ask Dumbledore. Straining to hear Umbridge and Snape's conversation causes Harry to ruin his potion.

That evening, Angelina says there is no Quidditch practice, as she is still waiting permission to reform the team, although the other Houses have been approved. Harry and Ron's attempts at homework are interrupted by Fred and George demonstrating the latest Skiving Snackbox: the Puking Pastilles, which induce projectile vomiting.

Late that night, Sirius' head appears in the fireplace. He tells Harry that he heard about the defensive magic group from Mundungus Fletcher, who was in the Hog's Head during the meeting, disguised as the heavily-veiled witch. Sirius passes Mrs. Weasley's message that Ron is forbidden to get involved, and her advice that Harry and Hermione likewise abandon it. Sirius, however, approves, and encourages them to continue. Harry asks for suggestions on places to meet. Sirius suggests several locations but they are unsuitable, then looking sideways in the flames, vanishes. A hand suddenly appears in the fire, grabbing at where Sirius' head just was. Harry, Ron, and Hermione run; looking back, Harry recognizes Umbridge's hand.

[edit] Analysis

Umbridge clearly has many ways to obtain information. She willingly goes overboard with rules and regulations (i.e. banning all student organizations to prevent the student Defence Against the Dark Arts group from meeting) to cement her ever-growing authority. Rather than further discouraging Harry, who was becoming increasingly depressed over Hagrid's absence, no Quidditch, and being unable to regularly communicate with Sirius, this only makes him more determined than ever to move ahead with the defensive arts class and to combat Umbridge's dictatorial reign. Umbridge has become a tyrannical symbol of oppression that Harry and the other students rebel against, helping unite the Houses as the Sorting Hat had advised, and as Dumbledore had stressed the year before. We do not find it surprising that only Slytherin is missing; we are already seeing that Umbridge is biased heavily in favour of Slytherin House, and as a result, Slytherin feels the pinch much less than the rest of the school. This oppression will also help students to rally around and support Harry, though many likely remain skeptical that he actually witnessed Voldemort's resurrection.

Harry has been told, and has now seen a demonstration, that the Floo network is under surveillance by the Ministry of Magic. He will need to find another means to communicate with his godfather. It's unknown whether or not Umbridge actually intercepted Hedwig, only that something nearly caught her, injuring her in the process. If the Floo network is being monitored, as it evidently is, the limited information Hedwig was carrying ("Tonight, same time, same place") would not reveal Sirius' whereabouts, nor would it pinpoint the specific meeting time with Harry, or that it was even Black that Harry was meeting, unless the monitoring had started before Sirius' previous visit on the first weekend in the year. However, it would alert Umbridge that a meeting was planned, though it would not give any information about who Harry was to meet with unless the Ministry had become aware of Sirius' Animagus form. This latter is not unlikely; Lucius Malfoy seems to know of Sirius' Animagus form, has apparently reported Sirius' presence in London to the Ministry, and quite possibly could have mentioned that Sirius is an unregistered Animagus and his transformed shape. The scheduled time "tonight" would rule out many physical locations, as the students are forbidden to leave the school or its grounds without permission, particularly at night, so Umbridge could have heightened the surveillance on the Floo network as being among the few available contact avenues.

Snape has been teaching at Hogwarts for fourteen years, as he tells Umbridge. As Harry is now fifteen, Snape would have begun teaching at Hogwarts in September of the year that Harry turned one year old, and would have been only two months on the job at the time of Harry's parents' death and Voldemort's initial disappearance.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why has Umbridge disbanded all student groups and organizations? What does Harry decide to do?
2. Why does Neville attack Malfoy in Potions class? What does Harry know about it?
3. What might have caused the injury to Hedwig's wing? Why would someone want to capture her?
4. How did Sirius find out about the defensive magic group?
5. How was Umbridge able to locate Sirius?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why has Slytherin been given permission to reform their Quidditch team, when Gryffindor has not?
2. Why would Harry ignore McGonagall's warning about the Floo Network and other communication methods being monitored? How risky was this?
3. Harry has suspected that both Snape and Umbridge are Death Eaters. What about their interaction with each other either supports or discredits that belief?
4. How can Hermione be so certain that no one in the defensive magic group tipped off Umbridge about their meeting? Is she right?
5. Why does Molly Weasley oppose the defensive magic group while Sirius supports it?

[edit] Greater Picture

Though Ron immediately suspects a student, Hermione is confident that it cannot have happened without them knowing about it. The fact that Sirius has found out about the group, without anyone having told him about it, should cause us to suspect that perhaps another eavesdropper was aware of the meeting in the Hog's Head. In fact, we will find out later that another of the four customers in the Hog's Head, Willy Widdershins, may not have been intending to eavesdrop, but was quick enough to use the information he collected in an attempt to get himself out of trouble with the Ministry. Widdershins, we will find out later, had been charged with making Muggle toilets regurgitate, and sold the information to Umbridge in return for getting the charges decreased or dropped.

Umbridge later reveals to Harry that all school fireplaces except her own are being monitored. It is likely this monitoring that detects Sirius communicating with Harry, rather than the possibly-intercepted message Hedwig had been carrying, which contained insufficient information other than the general meeting time ("tonight"). That Umbridge has the fireplaces monitored may indicate that there is a far greater connection continuing between her and the Ministry than was suspected.

The monitoring of the fireplaces, coupled with Harry's need to communicate with Sirius, will require him to break in to Umbridge's office later in the story. He will, in fact, need to do this on two separate occasions; the first time he will be largely successful in his attempt, the second time will result in his getting caught by Umbridge.

As mentioned in the Analysis section above, Umbridge's unceasing attempts to subjugate the school may be the single greatest reason for the anti-Umbridge sentiment within the school. In this chapter we see that Umbridge's early attempts to cement her powers by unilaterally increasing them, and we see also that the immediate result is rebellion. Older readers likely will have seen the pattern of increasing oppression resulting in increasing rebellion in their own lives, but for younger readers, this may be their first exposure to this pattern of behaviour. It is to the author's credit that she is able to portray this familiar sequence of events, in this and succeeding chapters, so convincingly, without losing the older audience's interest.

As mentioned above, Snape would have begun teaching at Hogwarts in September of the year that Harry turned one year old, and would have been only two months on the job at the time of Harry's parents' death and Voldemort's initial disappearance. Revelations in the last book in the series will strongly suggest that Snape had learned of Voldemort's plan to kill Harry and his parents shortly before that, and had then become a double agent, working for Dumbledore. It would seem that it was about at the same time that Snape became Potions Master for Hogwarts, probably as part of the "anything" that Dumbledore required of him.

Chapter 18: Dumbledore's Army

[edit] Synopsis

Hermione suspects Hedwig's injury was caused by Umbridge attempting to intercept Harry's mail. That is likely the real reason Filch had earlier tried to confiscate Harry's letter when he was in the Owlery.

Angelina announces that the Gryffindor Quidditch team has been allowed to reform. Practice is that evening. After Angelina leaves, Hermione expresses second thoughts about the defence classes; Sirius supporting it therefore makes it suspect to Hermione, who feels Sirius is somewhat immature and may be trying to live through Harry. This gets an angry rebuttal from Harry and Ron.

The weather during the Quidditch practice is dreadful; Fred and George debate skipping practice by using their Skiving Snackbox products, but Angelina knows about them. Testing their latest item, Fever Fudge, has given them pus-filled boils in a rather personal place. Because of this and the bad weather, practice lasts for only an hour. Following the first practice, Harry's scar pains him. He tells Ron that Voldemort is angry because he wants something done that is not happening fast enough. Ron asks if that was what had happened in Umbridge's office, but Harry says no, Voldemort was happy then. And the time before that, just before they left for school, he was furious.

Alone in the common room later that evening, Harry nods off over his homework. He has the now familiar dream of the windowless corridor. He is awakened by Dobby the House-elf bringing back the healed Hedwig. Dobby, who seems to be wearing all of Hermione's knitted elf hats and socks, says that because the clothing is hidden throughout Gryffindor tower, the other House-elves will not clean there anymore. They find the items insulting. Harry decides not to tell Hermione. Harry asks Dobby for suggestions on a meeting place for the defensive magic class. Dobby tells him about the Room of Requirement, a room that appears fully equipped with whatever the person asking for it needs. Dobby uses it as a place for Winky to dry out, and offers to show Harry how to summon it.

The next day, Harry passes the word that the first meeting is that evening. Hermione is doubtful, remembering how Dobby's other schemes have failed, but Harry tells her that Dumbledore had also mentioned this room once. That night, Harry, Ron, and Hermione summon the room; it is perfect, with cushions to catch Stunned students, there are Dark detectors, which Harry thinks were in the false Moody's office the year before, and, most reassuring to Hermione, a full library of Dark Arts reference books. The other students file in, awed by the space's perfection, and the first session begins.

Hermione suggests voting for a leader, and Harry is elected unanimously. Hermione also wants to name their group, and after numerous ideas are tossed out, Cho Chang suggests "Defence Association," or D.A. for short. Ginny Weasley points out that the initials could also stand for "Dumbledore's Army," and the members choose that, mostly to mock paranoid Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge, who fears Dumbledore is secretly organizing a wizard army against the Ministry of Magic. Hermione writes "Dumbledore's Army" at the top of the parchment with the students' names on it and attaches it to the wall. Harry begins the first lesson – the disarming charm, although Zacharias Smith complains it is too simple. Harry says it served him well enough against Voldemort, but Zacharias is free to leave if he chooses.

Practice goes well, although Cho badly fumbles her charms whenever Harry is watching. Harry, evaluating the spell-casting, is glad he started with something so simple. The session ends, and everyone agrees to meet the next Wednesday, a time that does not conflict with Harry's Quiddich practice.

[edit] Analysis

The school Houses have always maintained separate identities which have created (mostly) friendly rivalries, although Gryffindor and Slytherin have traditionally been more antagonistic toward one another. As is so common, an external threat creates an alliance among these more-or-less disparate groups. With the exception of Slytherin, the Houses become united over a common cause: opposing Umbridge and the Ministry. While Umbridge does seem to show obvious favoritism towards Slytherin House, it would seem that they were not deliberately excluded from the DA, and the organizers may have simply felt students from that House would be uninterested in joining or possibly feared that some were untrustworthy.

Also, the name, Dumbledore's Army (or D.A.), that the students have chosen for their secret group not only reflects their defiance and willingness to oppose Umbridge and mock Fudge, but re-enforces their loyalty to Dumbledore and Hogwarts. Fudge's ongoing paranoia that Dumbledore is secretly building a wizard army to take over the Ministry is ridiculous; there is simply nothing to support this, and significant evidence against it — we were told by Hagrid in the first book that Dumbledore had been offered the post and declined it — but it shows just how warped Fudge's reasoning now is. Dumbledore's Army becomes an extreme example of Fudge "creating what he fears." Fudge suspecting that an army is being built, for which he has no proof, is in stark contrast to his unbending claims that, despite concrete evidence, Voldemort and Peter Pettigrew are still dead and Sirius Black is indeed guilty. Umbridge supports his stance, of course, although she has a different agenda.

Dumbledore's mention of the Room of Requirement, that Harry alludes to to calm Hermione's fears, is an extremely fleeting one: at the Yule Ball the previous year, Dumbledore, conversing with Professor Karkaroff, had mentioned discovering, and then losing, a room full of chamber pots. The fact that Harry is able to recognize this as the Room of Requirement from Dobby's description is rather astute. Harry has probably chosen to read more into the wink that Dumbledore tipped him at the time than was meant.

Returning to Gryffindor tower, Harry only half listens to Hermione and Ron discussing the meeting; he is also thinking about Cho admitting that she is nervous when he is nearby. Harry sees this as the beginnings of the romance he has dreamed about since the previous year. However, because this is tied to Cedric Diggory's death, for which he feels partially responsible, Harry remains unsure of himself.

Dobby's comments about the House Elves' opinions of the clothing scattered around is quite telling. We are already well-aware of the way house-elves feel about their work and their masters; Dobby's re-iteration of them quite strongly reinforces our understanding of these feelings, reminding us that the house-elves fully believe that their place is to work for the comfort of their masters, in this case the school. Hermione cannot give them their freedom, as they will not accept it if offered, and are offended if they believe they are being tricked into it.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Hermione suspect it was Umbridge who attempted to capture Hedwig? What does she think about Filch?
2. Why does Hermione express second thoughts about starting the defensive group? Is she justified?
3. What does Harry think is the reason his scar hurts during Quidditch practice?
4. Why do the House-elves avoid Hermione's gifts of clothing? Why would they find them insulting?
5. How does Harry learn about the Room of Requirement? What's Hermione's thoughts about it?
6. What do the defensive magic group call themselves? Why is that name agreed on?
7. Why does Cho fumble her charm whenever Harry is watching?
8. Why is Harry glad he started the students off with such a simple spell?

[edit] Further Study

1. Could there be repercussions from the choice of the name for the group?

[edit] Greater Picture

What Voldemort wants done that is not happening quickly enough could be extracting the Prophecy from the Ministry, although, equally, it could be recruiting the Dementors to his side, and the associated jail break. Whatever it is, is never clear, though most likely it is retrieving the Prophecy. Adding weight to this is, of course, Harry's recurring dream: the hallway that he sees will be revealed shortly after Christmas to be the hallway that leads to the Department of Mysteries, where the Prophecy is stored, and the dream is a representation of Voldemort's desires. As Malfoy was tasked with putting Bode under the Imperius Curse, that may be taking too long to suit Voldemort and could be the start of the Malfoy family's downfall within the Death Eaters.

It is Fudge's paranoia that Dumbledore is creating a secret Wizard army that leads to the D.A. being formed. It, ironically, becomes the core of the army that helps to battle Voldemort and his Death Eaters, after they have taken over the Ministry in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. In the meanwhile, the group's name will be used by Fudge, when the group is discovered, to "prove" that Dumbledore was, in fact, organizing a private army; this will result in the attempted arrest of Dumbledore and his departing the school.

The Room of Requirement will play a significant role in the next two books. Throughout this book, Harry will use it as a meeting place for Dumbledore's Army; in the next book, Malfoy will be attempting to perform some task in this room, and in the final book, it will once again be used by Dumbledore's Army, and will be found to have been used as a place where Lord Voldemort had hidden something quite valuable.

Chapter 19: The Lion and the Serpent

[edit] Synopsis

Harry is pleased with the D.A.'s progress, and he takes great pleasure in flouting Umbridge's regulations. With various team Quidditch practices, it is difficult to have a regular night for Dumbledore's Army to meet, but Hermione has a solution: she gives everyone fake Galleons that transmit messages. Harry can use them to summon them for the next meeting. Terry Boot is impressed, saying this is a Protean Charm, and it is NEWT-level magic.

The first Quidditch match is approaching, and Ron is a nervous wreck. Their opponent is Slytherin, and the students are wearing badges reading, "Weasley is our King". It is a cruel effort to undermine Ron's confidence by implying he will win the game for Slytherin with his poor Quidditch skills. During the game, Slytherin students sing, "Weasley is our King" to further unnerve him. It apparently works, as Ron plays badly, missing several shots, but Harry catches the Snitch, winning the game for Gryffindor.

After the game, Harry (already angry after Crabbe hit him with a bludger after the final whistle) and George Weasley jump Malfoy and his cronies for mocking Ron. McGonagall hauls them into her office and assigns each a week's detention. However, Umbridge barges in with another Decree in hand, declaring she now has sole authority over all student discipline. Over McGonagall's protests, she permanently bans Harry and George from Quidditch. She also bans Fred Weasley, even though he was never involved in the incident. Umbridge also confiscates their brooms.

Back in the Common room, Angelina worries about what to do without team Beaters and a Seeker. She goes to bed, leaving only Harry, Hermione, and Ginny in the Common room. Ron enters through the portrait hole, still in his Quidditch robes and covered in snow. He threatens to quit the team, saying he never should have thought that he could be a Keeper. When Harry and Ginny tell him about Umbridge's permanent bans, Ron says this is the worst he has ever felt. Harry agrees. Hermione says she knows something that will cheer them up: Hagrid is back.

[edit] Analysis

Just as the Gryffindor Quidditch team is allowed to reform, improving Harry's unhappy mood, Umbridge squashes it again. She grows more dictatorial by the day, and it seems she is getting new decrees passed solely to increase her power. She obviously also favors Slytherins. Although Crabbe was involved in the fight, he only had to write lines as his punishment, while Harry, Fred, and George were permanently banned from Quidditch. That Fred was included, even though he was uninvolved in the incident, shows how biased and vicious Umbridge truly is. Harry had previously asked Sirius if he thought Umbridge was a Death Eater. Sirius does not believe she is, and her actions seemingly support this. Rather, they indicate a growing addiction to, and abuse of, power.

What we are seeing here is another aspect of Umbridge's carrying out the agenda of the Ministry. As we have seen, she, along with Cornelius Fudge and other Ministry officials, continue to wage a public smear campaign against Harry and Dumbledore, refuting their claims that the Dark Lord has arisen. Close-minded and paranoid, they suspect Dumbledore is recruiting Hogwarts students for a secret wizard army with which to overthrow the Ministry. That is why Fudge refuses to allow real defensive magic to be taught. We believe that Umbridge was placed at Hogwarts solely as Fudge's spy and to deliberately meddle in its operations; that belief is unchanged, and she will do anything with her ever-increasing and Ministry-backed authority to prevent Harry or Dumbledore from becoming what is perceived to be an even greater threat. Her banning Harry from Quidditch seems, in light of her apparent mission, to be a step in demoralizing, and thus further discrediting, Harry. It is uncertain why she chooses to ban Fred as well as George, despite her "explanation"; the simplest explanation seems to be "because I can."

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why did Crabbe receive such a light punishment for the same offense as Harry and the Twins?
2. Why would calling Ron a "King" be insulting and what effect does it have on him? Who is doing it?
3. Why would Umbridge ban both Weasley twins from Quidditch when only one was involved in the incident with Malfoy?
4. Why would Umbridge confiscate the students' brooms?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why does Umbridge favor Slytherin students?
2. Why is McGonagall angry at Umbridge? What does this indicate?

[edit] Greater Picture

While we have not yet seen this, Umbridge will shortly be revealed to have an unreasoning hatred of what she terms "half-breeds": magical creatures that show human characteristics but are not human. We will see this in her reaction to Hagrid, and later her reaction to the centaurs in the Forbidden Forest. This actually suggests that Umbridge will again act to make things more difficult for Harry. With the confiscation of his broom, and his Quidditch ban, Harry will find that the only things about Hogwarts that he still enjoys are teaching Dumbledore's Army and his friends, notably Hagrid. Hagrid's return is heartening, but with Umbridge threatening to sack Hagrid, yet another of his few pleasures comes under threat of almost immediate removal.

Ron's lack of confidence in his own Keeping will be a recurring thread in this book and the next. He will finally hit his stride in time for the final match of the year, which will be won, and the Quidditch Cup with it, thanks to his efforts, but he will have lost faith in himself again by the start of the next book. This is likely meant to illuminate Ron's lack of maturity; he tries out for Keeper but then does not have the inner strength to keep at it, and after the disappointments on the field he tries to run away. It is only through external influences that he is convinced to stick with it. This sort of pattern is quite realistically rendered; one can see that the author is well aware of how boys venture into new and complicated endeavors.

Chapter 20: Hagrid's Tale

[edit] Synopsis

Harry immediately fetches his invisibility cloak and the Marauder's Map, and with Ron and Hermione (Ron crouching because he is almost too tall to fit under the cloak), they head to Hagrid's hut. They are shocked by his battered appearance: his face is bloodied and bruised, he has a black eye and multiple cuts on his face and hands, and he moves as if his ribs are broken. However, he refuses all suggestions to visit Madam Pomfrey, instead offering to make tea. Hermione asks if he visited the giants, and he is astounded they are able to guess that much, but also secretly seems pleased that they are so quick. Ron mentions that if Hagrid tells them about his mission, Harry can tell Hagrid about the Dementor attack. Hagrid is stunned to hear that Dementors attacked near Privet Drive, and wants to know what happened, but Harry insists that Hagrid recount his mission first.

Hagrid says he was on a secret mission with Madame Maxime, the Headmistress of the Beauxbatons Academy in France. Dumbledore sent them into the European mountains to recruit the Giants against Voldemort. They were on their way to opening relations with the Gurg, the chief Giant, when he was overthrown. The new chief was less receptive, and he and Madame Maxime had to use magic to escape. Giants hate magic, and that ruined their chances to negotiate with the new Gurg. Hagrid and Madame Maxime attempted to recruit those Giants who tried escaping the new chief, but with little success. They also had to avoid Macnair and other Death Eaters, who were recruiting Giants for Voldemort.

Hermione asks about Hagrid's mother. Hagrid says she died long before, but was not much of a mother anyway, and he hardly remembers her. Ron asks who attacked him, and Harry wants to know why he returned long after Madame Maxime did. As Hagrid starts protesting that he has not been attacked, there is a loud knock on the door; Harry, Hermione, and Ron duck under the cloak, and Professor Umbridge strolls into Hagrid's hut.

Umbridge, speaking loudly and slowly as if to a deaf person, introduces herself as she scrutinizes Hagrid's cabin. She asks Hagrid why there are three sets of footsteps going to his hut and none going away; Hagrid is unable to answer coherently. She asks where he has been, and he stammers that he was away for his health; Umbridge appears to disbelieve that given his current battered state. Umbridge looks around the hut, apparently looking for students hiding, and passing within inches of the cloaked Trio. She informs Hagrid that she will be inspecting his class, as the Ministry is determined to weed out unsatisfactory teachers, then leaves.

Once Hagrid reports that Umbridge is back at the castle, Harry strips off the Cloak. Hermione, worried, asks what Hagrid plans to teach. Hagrid does not say, except that it will be good. Hermione warns him that Professor Trelawney is already on probation, and she recommends that Hagrid follow boring, Ministry-recommended procedures. Hagrid brushes off her concerns, saying that he is tired, it is late, and they need to get back to the castle.

As the Trio return to the castle under the Cloak, Hermione works on an Obliteration Charm to hide their footprints. Ron does not think Hermione got through to Hagrid, and she vows, even if she has to plan all his lesson for him, that she will prevent Umbridge from firing Hagrid.

[edit] Analysis

Although Hagrid and Madame Maxime failed to enlist the Giants as allies, their mission's importance should not be under-emphasized. Dumbledore knows that Voldemort is actively recruiting non-human magical creatures, specifically Giants and Dementors, because Harry had reported Voldemort's words on that subject. Voldemort is also approaching Werewolves, Centaurs, and others who have historically been repressed, ostracized, and even enslaved by the Wizarding world. We can safely assume that Centaur pride and their distaste for human affairs will prevent them from supporting either side. For the werewolves, Dementors, and Giants, however, there is no such assurance. No matter how evil and violent Voldemort's reign will likely be should he prevail, he can offer these denizens more opportunities and freedom than most currently have under the present social order. If Voldemort entices these outcasts to join him, it could tilt the war in his favor.

It also appears that Hagrid and Madame Maxime's mission ended some time ago. Hagrid's delayed return and his injuries may have some cause apart from the mission, although Hagrid remains secretive about what that is.

Hermione cautions Hagrid about Umbridge, knowing that she is targeting weaker teachers. Unfortunately, Hagrid seems unconcerned and downplays Hermione's warning, although just why is unclear. Hagrid, who has been out of touch with events at the school until this point, may believe that he is immune from Umbridge's attempts so long as he has Dumbledore's backing. While it has been suggested that Hagrid may feel he does not stand a chance against the possibility of Umbridge dismissing him, his reaction here seems more one of complacency than resignation; he simply does not perceive that Umbridge is a threat despite what Hermione tells him. This seems quite in line with Hagrid's character, as he does not seem to see dragons or Blast-Ended Skrewts to be threats either.

Umbridge's condescending treatment of Hagrid certainly seems to indicate that she considers him vastly inferior and of low intelligence, and this may indicate a prejudice she has towards partially-human or non-human races. It also appears that she may know something about his secret mission, and it is possible that Voldemort's spies or Ministry agents spotted Hagrid and Madam Maxime while they were away.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. What was Hagrid's secret mission? Who sent him, and why is it so important?
2. Why was Madam Maxime also sent on the mission?
3. What was the outcome of Hagrid and Madam Maxime's secret mission?
4. Why is Umbridge so interested in where Hagrid has been? She asks if Hagrid had been vacationing in the mountains – does she possibly know anything about the mission and where he went?
5. Why does Umbridge speak to Hagrid in such a deliberately slow and loud manner?
6. Why does Hagrid shrug off Hermione's warning?
7. Just how does Hermione intend to prevent Umbridge from firing Hagrid?
8. What is Umbridge's definition of "unsatisfactory teachers"?

[edit] Further Study

1. If Hagrid and Madam Maxime were on the mission together, why might Hagrid have returned much later than she did?
2. What could have caused Hagrid's battered appearance? Why won't he say how he was hurt?
3. Why might Umbridge suspect that Hagrid and Madame Maxime were on a secret mission?
4. What would motivate magical creatures like Werewolves, Goblins, Centaurs, and others to support Voldemort?

[edit] Greater Picture

It is mentioned above that Umbridge's denigration of Hagrid may indicate a dislike for half-Human and non-Human races. While this is not completely confirmed until near the end of this book, it is strongly suggested that Umbridge is biased against "half-breeds" in general by comments she makes while "examining" Hagrid's teaching. Later in the book, we will learn that Umbridge's hatred of what she terms "half-breeds" extends to Centaurs, a proudly pure-bred race.

Even now that he is back on nominally safe ground, Hagrid will continue to sport various injuries throughout the rest of the year. It will not be until much later in the year that we learn the cause of these injuries: Hagrid had managed to locate his half-brother, Grawp, living with the giants, and brought him home. Grawp's intransigence, which will continue into the summer, had slowed Hagrid's return, and is now the source of the injuries Hagrid repeatedly suffers. Hagrid, mindful that Grawp is all the family he has left, is trying to civilize him. There will be a number of points where Hagrid alludes to "family", meaning Grawp, but it will be significantly later in the year before we meet him.

Hagrid is hiding Grawp in the Forbidden Forest while he attempts to make him fit for society. This, while it would normally be a safe hiding place, will result in the Centaurs falling out with Hagrid, and eventually will result in Hagrid being barred from the Forest. One centaur, Firenze, will allude to this problem in private conversation with Harry, but when the message is passed on, Hagrid will dismiss it.

In passing, it may be of interest that while the centaurs do not help Voldemort, neither do they help those who would fight him, remaining neutral until, in the final chapter of the final book, they are goaded into action by Hagrid. The werewolves, led by Fenrir Greyback, will take Voldemort's side, as will the Dementors and at least two Giants.

Chapter 21: The Eye of the Snake

[edit] Synopsis

Hermione pleads with Hagrid the next day to only teach something safe, but he only responds that nobody in their right minds would rather study Knarls than Chimeras. Hermione hastens to reassure Harry and Ron that she does not believe he has a Chimera waiting for them. Hagrid still refuses to say what is causing his injuries. Hagrid's return receives a mixed reception: Fred, George and Lee Jordan rush to the head table and shake hands while Parvati Patil and Lavender seem somewhat dismayed. Harry understands; Professor Grubbly-Plank's "interesting" lessons do not seem to involve the risk of getting one's head torn off.

In Care of Magical Creatures, Hagrid leads the students into the Forest, where he shows them strange, horse-like creatures covered with scaly skin and sporting leathery wings. They are the same ones Harry saw pulling the carriages at the beginning of school. Hagrid asks how many students can actually see them. Harry, Neville, and a stringy Slytherin raise their hands. Hagrid says the creatures are Thestrals. Hermione, when asked, explains they are only visible to people who have seen death. Harry understands now why he can see them and Ron cannot; he witnessed Cedric Diggory's murder during the Triwizard Tournament the previous year. Hagrid's lesson is interrupted by Professor Umbridge, who arrives to inspect his teaching. Umbridge's presence unnerves Hagrid, and with her watching, interrupting, and generally treating Hagrid as subhuman, Hagrid delivers what may be his worst lesson. The Slytherins doing their best to interfere further unnerves Hagrid. Umbridge departs, saying that he can expect his evaluation in ten days.

Banned from Quidditch, Harry has little to look forward to except Dumbledore's Army, and that will not happen over Christmas break. This prospective idleness vexes Harry until he asks Ron how he is returning to the Burrow. Ron then mentions that he forgot to tell Harry that he is invited for Christmas.

Entering the Room of Requirement before the final D.A. meeting prior to the break, Harry sees that Dobby has decorated it extravagantly and embarrassingly. Harry removes most decorations, but mistletoe bunches are still hanging when Luna Lovegood and the other students arrive. Harry has them practice the Impediment jinx and Stunning. At class end, Harry praises everyone's performance and says they will start the big stuff in the new year. Cho Chang, lingering behind, tells Harry she still misses Cedric and wonders if he had known what Harry is teaching, would he still be alive? Harry says he did know it, otherwise he would never had made it to the maze's center in the tournament's Third Task. Cho compliments Harry as being a good teacher, and maneuvering him under the mistletoe, kisses him.

Returning to the common room, Harry tells Ron and Hermione what happened, saying it would be nicer if Cho was not always crying. Hermione explains all the emotional turmoil Cho is undergoing, but Ron says that is impossible, "One person couldn't feel all that at once, they'd explode." Hermione responds that just because he has the emotional range of a teaspoon does not mean everyone does. Hermione says, "I suppose it could have been worse," when Harry describes his efforts to comfort Cho. Asked if he is going to keep seeing her, Harry does not answer. When asked who she is writing to, Hermione says it is to Viktor Krum, causing Ron to lapse into disgruntled silence; very little else is said until everyone is in bed. Harry, musing as he falls asleep, thinks that Hogwarts should teach how to understand girls.

Harry dreams he is a snake slithering down a long hallway. A man is hiding under a silvery cloak. The man draws his wand as Harry attacks him with his venomous fangs. Harry awakes in a panic, shouting, sweating, and his scar burning intensely, convinced the dream was real and that the attacked man was Mr. Weasley. Neville summons Professor McGonagall who takes Harry and Ron to Dumbledore's office.

[edit] Analysis

Harry and Cho's relationship is starting off badly. Although Cho likes Harry, she is still grieving Cedric Diggory's death while coping with other problems. Harry, dealing with his own difficulties and lacking romantic experience, is simply unequipped to handle Cho's fragile emotional state, despite Hermione's advice; he is uncertain if it is wise to continue seeing her. Ron is also undergoing relationship problems after learning that Hermione is writing to Viktor Krum. Ron's unresolved feelings for Hermione are causing him to experience jealousy, although he is confused over how he actually does feel or even why.

Meanwhile, Harry's dreams are becoming more real and intense. Not only is he convinced that what he saw was actually happening, requiring that he act quickly to save Mr. Weasley, but he sees it from his own point-of-view and feels the emotion as it unfolds, leaving him extremely disturbed.

Hagrid has deliberately ignored Hermione's advice to only teach "safe" Ministry-approved lessons, although it probably matters little what lessons he does teach or how well or how badly he teaches them. We can see clearly now that Umbridge is a racist, and she is obviously intent on eliminating him solely based on his half-Giant heritage. Hagrid, though, is hurting his own cause. Whether this is childish obstinacy, or simple failure to comprehend how precarious his situation is, remains unclear. However, as we have seen, not all students would be unhappy if he left. Slytherins, of course, would favor his dismissal purely from spite, but others also fear his lessons, which oftentimes feature dangerous creatures and sometimes result in minor injuries.

It has been noted that Harry should have been able to see the Thestrals as he rode in the horseless carriage from the castle to the train at the end of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire; after all, he had just seen Cedric Diggory killed. There are actually several answers, including one in the context of the books, and one in the context of the author's plans. Rowling states that immediately after Harry witnessed Cedric Diggory's death, he was still in shock and had not completely internalized what had happened. Cedric's death is not entirely real to him yet, and it is only after he broods over the summer that he finally accepts that Cedric is dead. Only when he fully believes that he has witnessed death, is he able to see the Thestrals. Readers have asked, did he not see death earlier, such as when Lord Voldemort killed his parents? The answer is no, he did not. Being a baby, he was unable to comprehend that night's tragic events. Also, his father was actually killed in another part of the house, while his mother's death probably happened beyond his view in his crib. While it could be argued that Harry saw Voldemort die by his own rebounding killing curse, Voldemort is not really dead, nor would baby Harry understand what he saw. Harry also did not see Professor Quirrell die at the end of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. He lost consciousness before Quirrell actually died. The author has also stated that having the Thestrals visible to Harry just before the book's end would have left a rather uncomfortable puzzle for the readers: what are these creatures, are they Dark? So she said she made the conscious decision to leave them invisible until the next book.

The above is a paraphrase of the author's own comments on the matter. However, critics can argue that this was actually one of several inconsistencies throughout the books. Rowling may have simply made a literary mistake regarding Harry being unable to see the Thestrals at the end of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, and she concocted an explanation to fit the facts once the error became apparent.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Hermione encourage Hagrid to teach something "safe" in his class? Would her advice make any difference?
2. How does Hagrid react when Umbridge arrives to inspect his class?
3. What does Dobby do to the Room of Requirement? What is Harry's reaction? Why?
4. What are the horse-like creatures? Who can see them and why?
5. What is Ron's reaction to Hermione writing a letter to Viktor Krum? Why?
6. Why does Cho cry so much? What does Hermione think of Harry's efforts to comfort Cho?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why are some students less enthused than others about Hagrid's return to Hogwarts?
2. How has the nature of Harry's dream changed, and why is he convinced this one is real?
3. We are told that Harry does not return to Gryffindor tower until half an hour after the DA meeting has ended. What takes him so long?

[edit] Greater Picture

Harry's dream is somehow much more realistic than the ones he has experienced regarding that hallway to date. He will soon become convinced that Voldemort is possessing him. Dumbledore will seem unsurprised when Harry recounts the night's events, and he offers little explanation about what might be happening, leaving Harry even more confused, upset, and angrier at Dumbledore. Eventually, we will learn that this is, in fact, an artifact of the linkage between Voldemort the soul shard left in Harry by Voldemort's murder attempt. This is the point at which Voldemort learns that the linkage exists. Shortly, he will start to try to use this linkage to influence Harry's actions. This attempt will be sporadic and ineffective until after Voldemort's discussion with Rookwood, which Harry will also see as a dream. Voldemort will then start systematically using this link to coerce Harry to retrieve something for him.

It is actually concern that Voldemort may be using the mental link between himself and Harry, that is preventing Dumbledore from speaking to Harry. It is only at the end of this book that Dumbledore will reveal that he was trying to avoid letting Voldemort know that the relationship between himself and Harry was anything more than the usual Headmaster to student relationship.

As mentioned, we quite clearly see Umbridge's bias against Hagrid at this point, and can see that it is typical of prejudice: Umbridge arrives at Hagrid's class with preconceptions, and discovers exactly what she expects to discover while "examining" him. We will later learn that she is prejudiced against all non-Human races, having authored anti-Werewolf legislation; her dislike of Hagrid, based on nothing more substantial than his ancestry, will be only one aspect of her dislike of those who are not fully-human Wizards. This prejudice will result in Hagrid shortly being put on probation, and near the end of the year Umbridge will bring several Aurors with her as she attempts to sack Hagrid. In the meanwhile, she will repeatedly examine his classes, causing his already-weak confidence to crumble further.

Chapter 22: St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries

[edit] Synopsis

Professor McGonagall takes Harry and Ron with her, past the gargoyle (password: "Fizzing Whizbee") and to the Headmaster's office. Many people are heard talking from within Professor Dumbledore's office, but when McGonagall knocks, the voices fall silent, and inside, Dumbledore is sitting alone. Harry is vexed that Dumbledore continues to avoid looking at him. However, he tells Dumbledore what he saw in his dream, and, in response to Dumbledore's question, says that it was seen from his point-of-view, as if he was the snake, and that Mr. Weasley is badly hurt. Dumbledore immediately sends the portraits of two past headmasters, Everard and Dilys, to search for Mr. Weasley. Dumbledore explains that they were two of Hogwarts' most famous headmasters, and they have many other portraits they can visit. Dumbledore addresses Fawkes, saying they will need a warning. Fawkes vanishes in a flash of fire. Dumbledore places an intricate silver machine on his desk and sets it in motion; it emits a puff of green smoke that forms into a snake. Dumbledore says, "Naturally. But in essence divided?" The smoke stream splits into two snakes. Before Harry can ask its meaning, the Everard portrait returns, reporting that an injured man was found. Dilys then appears and says that the man has been taken to St. Mungo's, and that he looks bad. Dumbledore sends Professor McGonagall to fetch the other Weasley children. McGonagall asks about Mrs. Weasley, and Dumbledore says it is a job for Fawkes, though Mrs. Weasley's clock may have already alerted her.

Dumbledore creates a Portkey from an old kettle, and addresses Phineas' portrait. Phineas feigns awakening from a deep sleep and grudgingly agrees to deliver a message to his other portrait at number twelve, Grimmauld Place. Told to inform Sirius that the Weasley children and Harry will arrive, Phineas slopes off. Fred, George, and Ginny arrive with Professor McGonagall, and Dumbledore informs them that their father has been injured, and they are being sent to Grimmauld Place. Because the Floo network is being watched, they will instead travel by Portkey. A flash of fire, Fawkes' warning, appears, and McGonagall leaves to head off Umbridge. Phineas returns and reports that Sirius would be delighted to have the children. The Weasley children and Harry hold the Portkey. As it activates, Dumbledore looks directly at Harry for the first time. Intense pain in his scar and overwhelming hatred causes Harry to want to attack and bite Dumbledore.

Arriving at Grimmauld Place, Harry hears Kreacher muttering, "Back again, the blood-traitor brats. Is it true their father's dying?" Sirius orders him out. Harry tells the worried Weasley children and Sirius about his vision, although he refrains from sharing that he was the snake. The Twins demand to go to the hospital, but Sirius vetoes it, saying that the Order wants it kept secret that Harry is seeing events happening hundreds of miles away. Sirius serves Butterbeer as they silently wait for word. Harry wonders about the hatred he felt for Dumbledore, and why it seemed like he had fangs.

A Phoenix flame arrives; Molly Weasley has sent word by Fawkes that Arthur is seriously injured but still alive. She arrives herself at about 5:00 a.m., saying that Arthur is sleeping, and Bill is sitting with him. She expresses her deep gratitude to Harry for saving her husband's life. Harry now privately confesses to Sirius the fact that he seemed to be the snake in his dream, and the intense rage and hatred he felt towards Dumbledore. Sirius tells him not to worry about it, to get some rest, but Harry is unable to sleep, fearing he will turn into a snake and attack Ron.

The group decide to stay at Grimmauld Place over the Christmas holidays, to be close to the hospital. That afternoon, among merriment and relief that Arthur is out of danger, Tonks and Mad-Eye Moody arrive to escort them to St. Mungo's. After visiting with the children, during which Fred and George try unsuccessfully to learn where Arthur was and what he was guarding when he was attacked, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Tonks, and Moody have a (they think) private discussion regarding the previous night's events. Using Fred and George's Extendable Ears to eavesdrop, Harry and the Weasley children overhear Moody saying that Harry is seeing inside Voldemort's mind, and wonders if he is being possessed by Voldemort.

[edit] Analysis

The voices heard in Dumbledore's office, we can now guess, were the portraits of former Headmasters talking with Dumbledore. In this chapter, we see that they are far more than mere "talking heads." While they counsel the present Headmaster, they also act as a surveillance and communication system, able to travel to their other portraits throughout the wizarding world to deliver messages, report news, and occasionally act as spies. It is, in fact, possible that the office of the Headmaster of Hogwarts is potentially better informed than even the Minister of Magic as to events in the Wizarding world.

By this time, the reader should be beginning to suspect that Harry's mind is being accessed by Voldemort. This is confirmed when Harry relates to him that he could see the events at the Department of Mysteries from Voldemort's (or the snake's) point-of-view and feel his emotions. The small instrument Dumbledore consults emits a serpent-shaped puff of smoke, which splits into two when questioned. Its significance, which is never completely explained in the book, could be interpreted several ways. From the shape, we can assume that it is somehow related to the snake that attacked Arthur Weasley. Its splitting into two may represent the snake and Voldemort sharing its experiences. Alternately, it may represent Voldemort and the snake on one side, and Harry on the other. In the latter case, that it splits into two images may indicate that Harry and Voldemort remain separate, meaning Harry has not been possessed by the Dark Lord. Whatever its meaning, there seems to be some mental connection between the two, and when Harry makes eye contact with Dumbledore, the rage and hate he feels is almost certainly Voldemort's. Harry is more distressed than ever, unable to understand what is happening to him, and angry that Dumbledore is deliberately withholding information.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Whose voices did Harry hear inside Dumbledore's office, even though Dumbledore is alone? Why was Dumbledore talking with them?
2. Why is McGonagall sent to head off Umbridge?
3. Why aren't the Weasley children allowed to visit their father in the hospital right away?
4. What does Moody say about Harry? What makes him believe this?

[edit] Further Study

1. Where was Mr. Weasley when he was attacked, and what was he doing?
2. Why does Harry feel hate and rage when he looks at Dumbledore?
3. What might be the significance of the smoke stream from Dumbledore's instrument forming into a snake and splitting in two?
4. Why is Harry reluctant to tell the other Weasleys what he actually felt when he witnessed the attack on Arthur Weasley?
5. Why doesn't Kreacher respond when Sirius summons him? Is it possible that he could have left the house, even though he would need his master's permission? How could he have done that, and where might he have gone?

[edit] Greater Picture

While Harry is not yet completely aware of this, Dumbledore by now is reasonably certain that there is some connection between Voldemort's mind and Harry's. He will have come to this conclusion based on Harry's recounting of the dreams he had which involved Voldemort in August and May of the previous school year. While he may not yet be aware of the dreams of corridors that Harry is having, he will have guessed that Voldemort's regaining his body may have strengthened that link, and will have known that it was only a matter of time until Voldemort realized the link was present. Recognizing that Voldemort could use that same link to spy on Harry and himself, Dumbledore chooses to appear aloof and indifferent to Harry, in the hopes of hiding the fact that their relationship is more than headmaster-to-student. Harry, of course, is unaware of this, and is hurt by Dumbledore's apparent disregard.

Regarding Dumbledore's "in essence divided" comment, J.K. Rowling explained its meaning during an online chat at a fan site shortly after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was published. Says Rowling, "Dumbledore suspected that the snake’s essence was divided – that it contained part of Voldemort’s soul, and that was why it was so very adept at doing his bidding. This also explained why Harry, the last and unintended Horcrux, could see so clearly through the snake’s eyes, just as he regularly sees through Voldemort’s. Dumbledore is thinking aloud here, edging towards the truth with the help of the Pensieve."

Sirius was unintentionally overly forceful in ordering Kreacher to leave. Kreacher manipulated this into being permission to leave the house and visits the only still-living Black family member he respects: Narcissa Malfoy. While he is unable to tell Narcissa about the Order of the Phoenix, or anything else that Sirius has expressly forbidden him to discuss, he does tell Narcissa, and through her, Voldemort, that Sirius and Harry have a very caring relationship. At almost that same instant, Voldemort senses Harry's thoughts and glimpses Dumbledore through him, causing Harry to feel the Dark Lord's rage and desire to kill Dumbledore, and rise, snake-like, within him. As Dumbledore suspects, Voldemort will now be aware that he and Harry share thoughts on occasion. While this is not yet useful to Voldemort, he will exploit it shortly.

Harry is already worried that Voldemort may be possessing him, and he is additionally worried that he had been physically transformed into a snake and transported to London to attack Mr. Weasley. Ron reassures him on the latter point, saying that he was still in his bed and most definitely not a snake during the vision, but Harry is still unsure, and Moody's comment in St. Mungo's seems to be confirmation: Harry now believes that Voldemort may be using him to spy on his surroundings. This will shortly result in Harry deciding to depart Grimmauld Place, a departure that will be forestalled by a message from Dumbledore, relayed sarcastically by Phineas Nigellus.

Chapter 23: Christmas on the Closed Ward

[edit] Synopsis

Harry is consumed by the fear that Voldemort is possessing him. He is worried he will start attacking Order members, and afraid that Voldemort can see into Order headquarters. To protect everyone, Harry decides he should permanently leave Hogwarts, and return to the Dursleys. As he starts dragging out his trunk, Phineas Nigellus' portrait appears with a message from Dumbledore: "Stay where you are." Harry is upset by the message's brevity, as it was also all he was told after the Dementor attack. Having not slept the night before for fear of turning into a snake, Harry falls asleep against his will and again dreams of the stone hallway and the black door, and thinks how much he would like it to open. His dream is ended by Ron's voice telling him dinner is ready, but when he opens his eyes, Ron has already left. Harry decides Ron does not want to be in the same room with him.

Depressed, confused, and convinced everyone is avoiding him, Harry isolates himself. Hermione arrives at Grimmauld Place, hauls Harry from Buckbeak's room, and scolds him for his behavior. When Harry says he does not want to talk to anyone, Ginny reminds Harry that she knows what it is like to be possessed by Voldemort. After Harry apologizes, Ginny describes her experiences. Harry is relieved that his experience is nothing like Ginny's, and he is finally convinced he has not been possessed.

Christmas is coming; Sirius is overjoyed to have a full house for the holidays, and his joy seems infectious. Everyone expends great effort, and the house is decorated from top to bottom. At Christmas, Sirius and Lupin give Harry a set of books on jinxes and counter-jinxes. They will be useful for teaching Dumbledore's Army. Fred and George tell Ron and Harry to wait awhile before going downstairs; Mrs. Weasley is in tears because Percy returned his Christmas gift, unopened, and without a note.

When they head downstairs, they meet Hermione, who has a gift for Kreacher. It is a patchwork quilt, and Hermione says it should brighten up his sleeping space. Ron opens a cupboard door in the kitchen, and Harry sees what looks like a nest under an old-fashioned boiler (US: furnace). Scattered in the corners are items Sirius discarded, including many old Black family portraits, including one of Bellatrix Lestrange. Hermione leaves the gift. Sirius asks if anyone has seen Kreacher, and Harry says he has not seen him since Sirius ordered him out when they arrived. Sirius says that a house-elf cannot leave a residence without permission. Harry points out that Dobby did exactly that three years before. Sirius is briefly disconcerted, but brushes it off.

After lunch, Mundungus arrives with a borrowed car to drive the family, plus Mad-Eye Moody and Lupin, to St. Mungo's to visit Mr. Weasley. While at St. Mungo's, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny go for tea. Getting lost on the way to the cafeteria, they run into Gilderoy Lockhart, who still has extreme memory loss. Between Gilderoy's pleasure at seeing them, and his Healer's assumption that they are visitors, they spend time in the locked ward talking to him. While there, they see another patient, Broderick Bode, who received a potted plant as a Christmas gift. They also meet Neville and his grandmother, who are visiting Neville's parents, Frank and Alice, who, Harry knows, were once Aurors and former Order of the Phoenix members. Both were tortured into insanity with the Cruciatus curse by Sirius' Death Eater cousin, Bellatrix Lestrange. They are permanently hospitalized at St. Mungo's. Neville is embarrassed that his classmates now know about his parents, the more so when his mother shambles over and grandly gives him a wrapper from a pack of Drooble's Best Blowing Gum. Mrs. Longbottom says that Neville should be proud of how his parents defended themselves against their attackers. After Neville and his grandmother depart, Harry admits to the others that he knew about Neville's parents, but that Dumbledore had asked him to say nothing.

[edit] Analysis

Harry believes he is being possessed by Voldemort, and, as is usual for Harry when he is faced with a stressful situation, his initial response is to run away, this time convincing himself it will protect his friends. Harry is also angry, particularly at Dumbledore for ignoring him, and feels he is being treated like a small child again. Believing everyone is avoiding him, he becomes increasingly paranoid until Hermione scolds him for his childish behavior. Ginny, who actually was possessed by Voldemort, describes her own experience to him, finally convincing Harry that he is still his own man. Although Harry now believes he has not been possessed, it is strange that Dumbledore has provided him such sketchy information. Even though Dumbledore prevented Harry from leaving Grimmauld Place, he did so in a rather abrupt and distant manner that only fuels Harry's confusion and anger.

Hermione continues her quest for House-elves rights, and shows kindness to Kreacher by giving him a Christmas present, although her gesture is probably unappreciated by him. His sleeping space is revealing in that it shows he remains staunchly loyal to the Black family.

The trip to St. Mungo's Hospital is insightful for Harry and shows a significant step in his maturity. Even though he has endured much sorrow over his lost parents, he is becoming acutely aware that others, such as Neville Longbottom, have also suffered terribly under Voldemort's reign of terror. Harry has kept what he knows about Neville secret, as Dumbledore requested, to respect Neville's privacy, but seeing the Longbottom family in person has a profound effect on him. And although the Longbottoms are still alive, Harry realizes that they are as lost to Neville as James and Lily Potter are to him. This must also serve as a painful reminder to the Weasley children how vulnerable their own family is.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Harry fear he is being possessed? Who convinces him otherwise?
2. Why does Harry feel he should leave Hogwarts?
3. What does Percy Weasley do that upsets Mrs. Weasley? Why does he do this?
4. What happened to Frank and Alice Longbottom?
5. Why is Neville embarrassed when he runs into Harry and the Weasley children? What does his grandmother have to say?
6. Why did Harry never tell anyone, not even Neville, what he knew about the Longbottoms?

[edit] Further Study

1. Harry unexpectedly runs into Gilderoy Lockhart, Broderick Bode, Neville, his grandmother, and his parents while at St. Mungo's Hospital. Briefly describe each person's significance to the story.
2. Why has Kreacher saved the Black family objects that Sirius had tossed out?
3. Why does Hermione give Kreacher a Christmas gift? What is his likely reaction?

[edit] Greater Picture

Dumbledore's failure to explain his instructions is probably part of his ongoing attempts to prevent Voldemort recognizing that there is more to the relationship between himself and Harry than there is between himself and any other student. In this particular instance, it is exacerbated by Phineas Nigellus and his general disdain for everyone who is not a Black. His snide comments about how students should know their place and not question the headmaster does not help matters, only making Harry angrier.

Kreacher's absence is because he is off visiting Narcissa Malfoy. It is true that Dobby had left his master's house to warn Harry about the coming school year, and he apparently did so repeatedly during the year to try and convince Harry to return home, but he did have significant reason for doing so. Kreacher has no such reason; what he does have is the ability to interpret Sirius' forceful command "Get OUT!", uttered when the Weasley children and Harry arrived at Grimmauld Place, as an order to leave the house. It is never explained why he fails to respond to Sirius' summons; he certainly appears rapidly enough when Harry summons him in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

At St. Mungo's, a wizard portrait in the stairwell that the Trio are climbing seems to believe that Ron is inflicted with Spattergroit. Ron's response, that what he has is merely freckles, leads us to believe that this may be a fictional ailment that, as medicine advanced, proved to be like "the vapours" in the Muggle world. It will turn out later that there actually is such a disease, and that it is contagious, although Ron does not have it. This particular disease will be a minor plot point in the final book.

We will find out in a later chapter that Bode's continuing inability to speak is due to his having touched the Prophecy, while under the Imperius curse, to try and retrieve it for Voldemort. We will also discover that the potted plant that Healer Strout says someone has sent him is actually a Devil's Snare, which will later strangle him when he is tending it. One wonders why neither Strout, nor the Trio who have experienced the effects of this plant themselves, recognize the plant for what it is. The Trio's experience, of course, was in near darkness, so they can be forgiven for not recognizing the plant by daylight, but a Healer's education must concentrate on Herbology, so one would expect Strout to be aware of what the plant's characteristics are.

Chapter 24: Occlumency

[edit] Synopsis

Kreacher reappears from the attic; it seems he was in Mrs. Black's old room. Harry is wary; Kreacher seems happier and Harry has caught him avidly staring at him a few times. Sirius, meanwhile, grows depressed as everyone's stay at Grimmauld Place nears its end. Professor Snape arrives at Grimmauld Place to announce that Dumbledore wants Harry to study Occlumency, the art of closing one's mind to another's intrusion. Harry agrees, but then discovers that Snape is to be teaching him. Sirius asks why Dumbledore cannot instruct Harry, but Snape responds it was Dumbledore's decision. A verbal battle escalates until Sirius and Snape are at wands drawn with Harry between trying to prevent a duel. Mr. Weasley, with the entire Weasley family and Hermione, enter. Mr. Weasley is fully recovered and has been discharged from St. Mungo's. Sirius and Snape separate, and Snape leaves, saying he expects Harry in his office at 6 o'clock Monday evening. Harry discusses the Occlumency lessons with Ron and Hermione. Hermione says it will stop the nightmares, though Ron feels he would rather have the nightmares.

Lupin and Tonks arrive the next day to escort them back to Hogwarts. Before Harry leaves, Sirius gives him a package, saying Harry can contact him with it. Harry privately resolves never to use it, not wanting to risk exposing Sirius. Lupin summons the Knight Bus, and they are greeted by Stan Shunpike. Stan recognizes Harry, but is quickly quelled by Tonks. Arriving at Hogwarts, Lupin and Tonks leave separately.

Harry's first day back is unpleasant, partly because he dreads his evening Occlumency lesson with Snape and partly because Dumbledore's Army members keep asking him when the next meeting is. Snape has ordered him to say he has Remedial Potions on Monday nights. Zacharias Smith is particularly supercilious. When Cho Chang reminds Harry that the next Hogsmeade weekend is February 14th, he is initially mystified. It is only as she leaves, apparently disappointed, that Harry suddenly understands, and he invites her to go to Hogsmeade with him on Valentine's Day weekend. She, now delighted, accepts.

Still distrusting Snape, Harry's first Occlumency lesson begins. Voldemort is skilled in Legilimency, the ability to read others' thoughts and memories. Occlumency will help Harry block his mind. Snape removes some of his own memories and deposits them into Dumbledore's Pensieve. Harry must try and prevent Snape from penetrating his mind, but Harry's first attempts fail miserably. However, Harry recognizes the hallway he has dreamt about so frequently; it is inside the Ministry of Magic leading to the Department of Mysteries. He and Mr. Weasley raced down it last summer to his hearing, and it is the same hallway where Mr. Weasley was attacked. Snape dismisses him, telling him to come back Wednesday. As Harry leaves, he sees Snape reinserting memories from the Pensieve into his head.

Harry discusses this latest revelation with Ron and Hermione in the library. They conclude that the weapon Voldemort seeks must be hidden in the Department of Mysteries. They retreat to the common room, expecting it to be quieter, but Fred and George are demonstrating the latest Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes product, Headless Hats, that make the wearer's head invisible. Harry gives up and heads to bed. Inside the dormitory, Harry is felled by intense pain and hears wild, almost insane laughter. As he returns to awareness, his scar is burning. Harry tells Ron he saw Voldemort's thoughts again, but this time he did not feel Voldemort's anger—the Dark Lord is ecstatic. Harry questions if Occlumency is weakening his defences rather than strengthening them and wonders what made Voldemort so happy.

[edit] Analysis

The rift between Sirius and Snape can never be mended; their mutual hate is too deeply embedded, although they realize they must try to put aside their personal feelings for the Order's sake. Unfortunately for Harry, their ongoing feud will likely make his Occlumency lessons even more unpleasant, in addition to the animosity and distrust he already has for Snape. Confusion on Harry's part about why he must study this is also making it more difficult. He is further frustrated that it is Snape, rather than Dumbledore, who is teaching him. Although Harry's progress is slow, mostly due to his resistance to having to study a subject he does not fully understand, the lessons are, probably accidentally, resulting in Harry seeing clearer images. Harry recognizes the hallway he sees as the one that leads to the Department of Mysteries within the Ministry of Magic, leading him to conclude that that is where the weapon Voldemort is seeking is hidden.

Kreacher's behavior is highly suspicious. He seems to be carefully watching Harry for a reason, although just why is unknown. His devotion to the Black family is almost fanatical, as is his hatred for Sirius, as well as Harry and anyone he considers a "blood traitor." This could be significant, as though he is magically bound to serve only Sirius and to protect his secrets, Kreacher may be looking for a way around this.

Snape removing his memories just before teaching Harry is interesting. He obviously fears that Harry might glimpse something if Harry should successfully penetrate his thoughts. Which memories he is hiding is unknown; they could be something incriminating or merely personal.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. What is Occlumency? What is Legilemency?
2. Why does Snape order Harry to say that their sessions are for "remedial" Potions?
3. Why do Snape and Sirius nearly curse one another? What stops them?
4. Why doesn't Harry want to use Sirius' gift? Is he right, or being overly cautious?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why would Dumbledore want Harry to study Occlumency? Why doesn't Dumbledore instruct him rather than Snape?
2. Why does Snape remove his memories and place them in the Pensieve just before Harry's lesson? What memories might they be?
3. Why might Voldemort be feeling ecstatic?
4. What might suddenly be making Kreacher happy, and why is he watching Harry so closely?

[edit] Greater Picture

As previously mentioned, Kreacher had, in fact, interpreted Sirius' earlier order as permission to leave the house, and he had gone to Narcissa Malfoy, who was the only available member of the Black family that he still respected. It is quite likely that Kreacher's joy is due to Narcissa, or Lucius, promising that with Kreacher's assistance they would get rid of the "blood traitors and mudbloods" now occupying his mistress' house. How this would be done is not yet certain in anyone's mind, as the most recent attempt to retrieve the Prophecy has failed — we have seen the result of that attempt, Bode's spell-induced inability to speak. While the next attempt will depend on information given to Narcissa by Kreacher, it will not be formulated until after Rookwood has been freed from Azkaban, and explains to Voldemort why the first plan would not work. Rookwood will escape from prison at the end of this chapter, but there will be some delay while he, presumably, learns of the current plan and builds up his courage to approach Voldemort with bad news.

We will shortly learn that the feud between Sirius and Snape started when they were at Hogwarts as students, Sirius with James Potter, Peter Pettigrew, and Remus Lupin in Gryffindor House, and Snape in Slytherin. Sirius, largely influenced by James, had been more than a bit of a bully, picking on Snape in particular, and Snape had clearly never forgiven him. Sirius' imprisonment must have been very sweet for Snape, and Dumbledore's accepting his innocence after his escape must have been galling, particularly after Snape saw his chances of receiving an Order of Merlin slip away with Sirius' escape from Hogwarts in an earlier book.

Twice in this book, Harry will need to speak with Sirius, and will break into Professor Umbridge's office to do so. He will later find that the gift Sirius has given him here is a magic mirror that will reach Sirius at any time. This mirror would have been extremely useful, but Harry believes that his using it would expose Sirius to risk of recapture, and so deliberately forgets it. One may ask why, in this case, the mirror is provided at all? It turns out that a fairly substantial plot point of the final book will hinge upon this mirror. This small detail indicates the planning and interconnectedness that characterizes this author's work in this series.

The interaction with Cho Chang in this chapter shows once more how unprepared Harry is for a romantic entanglement. He is here so wrapped up in his own troubles that he almost fails to note that Cho has something else on her mind. The Hogsmeade visit, as we might expect given this inauspicious beginning, will be a complete failure.

Much later in the book, Snape will be called away from an Occlumency class, and Harry will be left alone with the Pensieve containing Snape's memories. Curiosity will get the better of him, and Harry will see, in Snape's memories, an event that will completely change his perception of his own father. It is here that we will learn that James and Sirius were not merely wild, as mentioned earlier in this book, but were actually surprisingly vicious bullies.

As mentioned above, Rookwood escapes Azkaban at the end of this chapter, as do several other Death Eaters. This will appear in the Daily Prophet the next morning, and Harry and Ron will conclude that this is what has made Voldemort so happy. Bode's death will appear in the paper as well, and while Harry does not remark on it at the time, it is likely that this also will have caused some small rejoicing by Voldemort.

Chapter 25: The Beetle at Bay

[edit] Synopsis

Voldemort's joy is explained the next morning when the Daily Prophet reports a mass breakout from Azkaban Prison. Ten Death Eaters, including Antonin Dolohov, Augustus Rookwood, and Bellatrix Lestrange, looking much paler and thinner than the picture Harry had seen at Grimmauld Place, have escaped. Hermione suspects that the Dementors defected to Voldemort's side and aided the escapees. The Prophet, echoing Ministry rhetoric, suggests the Death Eaters have regrouped around Sirius. The Prophet also reports that a Ministry of Magic employee named Bode died while in St. Mungo's Hospital, apparently strangled by by a dangerous potted plant. Ron remembers seeing Bode in the same ward as Lockhart and wonders how someone could mistakenly send a Devil's Snare plant; Hermione suspects he was murdered. Harry says he met Bode at the Ministry just before his hearing. Ron says his father knew Bode, who worked in the Department of Mysteries. Looking at the front page again, Hermione says something cryptic about sending a letter, and dashes off.

As Harry and Ron head to class, they run into Hagrid, who sheepishly admits he is on probation. Harry wonders how much more bad news he can stand.

School gossip now centers around the Azkaban breakout. Many Wizarding families are nearly as fearful of Death Eaters as they are Voldemort. Susan Bones, who has lost an uncle, an aunt, and several cousins to Death Eaters, receives almost as much attention as Harry. She wonders aloud to Harry how he stands it. Professor Umbridge posts a new Decree banning all Hogwarts teachers from having anything but class-related conversations with students. While teachers are prohibited from discussing the breakout with students, they are obviously talking about it among themselves, away from the staff room where Umbridge might overhear.

Umbridge continues evaluating Professor Trelawney and Hagrid, leading students to speculate that she intends to sack them. Hagrid forbids Harry, Ron, and Hermione from visiting him after dark, fearing it will get them and him into trouble. With Umbridge taking away everything Harry cares about at Hogwarts, only Dumbledore's Army is left. Harry redoubles his teaching efforts, and is mildly surprised that the group has been spurred on by the breakout. Even Zacharias Smith is working harder. Most affected, though, is Neville. Rather than becoming fearful, the news that his parents' torturers escaped causes him to work even harder; only Hermione masters the Shield Charm faster. Unfortunately, Harry's Occlumency lessons are not proceeding nearly as well. He is still unable to block Snape's probes. His scar is prickling almost continually, and he sees small flashes of Voldemort's emotions. He dates this increased sensitivity to when Snape's lessons started. Ron's opinion is that Snape is making it easier for Voldemort by deliberately not helping Harry. Hermione reminds him that Dumbledore trusts Snape, and if Dumbledore is untrustworthy, who can they trust?

Valentine's Day weekend arrives. Hermione receives an owl message and tells Harry to meet her at the Three Broomsticks at noon, then rushes off. In Hogsmeade, Cho suggests that she and Harry go to Madam Puddifoot's Tearoom. The tearoom is filled with snogging couples, embarrassing Harry. He is further embarrassed when Cho mentions that Roger Davies asked her out but she turned him down. Harry mentions he has to meet Hermione at the Three Broomsticks, but Cho misunderstands and becomes offended. Harry tries explaining that they are only friends, but Cho departs in tears.

Harry arrives early at the Three Broomsticks and finds Hagrid sitting at the bar. Unusually morose, Hagrid talks about how he and Harry are both orphans and outsiders and how important family is. Brushing off inquiries about his injuries, he heads out into the rain. Looking around, Harry spots Hermione, who is sitting with Luna Lovegood and Rita Skeeter, the disreputable tabloid journalist who wrote sensationalistic and false articles about Harry and other students during the Triwizard Tournament. Rita mentions that she would like to interview Harry for publication, but that Hermione would not allow it. Hermione says that she would allow it, that is why she has asked Rita to the Three Broomsticks. However, she wants an honest interview, not one that is slanted to make Harry appear mad. To Rita's scornful question as to who would publish it, Hermione says Luna's father will publish the interview in his paper, The Quibbler.

[edit] Analysis

Harry continues to be baffled about girls and is taken aback when Cho Chang becomes upset and insulted over his plans to meet Hermione while on a date with her. His attempt to humorously explain that Hermione is only a platonic friend, and that Rita Skeeter's articles about their "romance" (in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) were false, backfires and only makes matters worse. Harry, inexperienced in romance and female psychology, is simply unequipped to handle Cho's fragile emotional state, and her lingering grief over Cedric's recent death further strains their budding romance.

Umbridge's decree banning teachers and students from conversing with one another is a desperate (and ridiculous) act showing how quickly she is losing her authority and credibility with staff and students, not that she had much to begin with. The more she attempts to exert her power on the school, the more everyone becomes united against her, effectively diminishing her power.

Neville Longbottom, meanwhile, has finally broken free from the fog that has clouded his mind since early childhood. Under Harry's influence and Neville's determination to avenge his parents, his magical power, which many thought he lacked, is quickly emerging, although he still struggles to control it.

Rita Skeeter, who has fallen on hard times, has little choice but to comply with Hermione's demands that she write a truthful story about Harry and Voldemort. While it is not mentioned directly in the Three Broomsticks, readers will be aware that at the end of the previous book, Hermione had discovered that Rita was an unregistered Animagus, who took the form of a large beetle, and was able to eavesdrop on her subjects while in that form. All Animagi are legally required to be registered with the Ministry of Magic, failing to do so is a serious crime. Hermione is controlling Rita by threatening her with revelation of her Animagus status; by this means, she has prevented Rita from writing further damaging stories about Harry since the end of the last school year. Although Hermione's actions seem out-of-character here, she never hesitates to break rules or use somewhat unethical means if it serves an altruistic purpose, in this case, providing the public with the truth and rehabilitating Harry's reputation.

The Daily Prophet has published the Ministry story about the Death Eaters escaping from Azkaban, but has been unable, apparently, to come up with an explanation for one large problem: why did the Dementors not prevent this escape? The published story says that they have escaped and are rallying around Sirius, but in Hermione's relaying of the story, offer no explanation for how the escape was made. It is likely the appearance of this large and unfilled hole in the Ministry's story that inspires Hermione to contact Rita. Hermione detests Rita and what she stands for, but is aware that Rita is a capable journalist, and so when she determines that she needs a story written professionally, she thinks first of Rita.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Hermione blackmail Rita Skeeter? What does Hermione threaten to do if Rita fails to comply?
2. Why does Cho become upset with Harry on their date in Hogsmeade? Is she overreacting or did Harry behave inappropriately?
3. Why might Umbridge be focusing so much attention on Hagrid and Trelawney during her teacher evaluations?
4. How is it believed the Death Eaters escaped from Azkaban?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why is this chapter titled, "The Beetle at Bay"?
2. Could Hagrid have avoided being placed on probation by following Hermione's advice? Explain why or why not.
3. What might have caused Neville Longbottom's inability to use magic properly? How has Harry's teaching changed him?
4. Why does Umbridge's new Decree restrict discussions between teachers and students?
5. Why would Animagi be required to be registered with the Ministry of Magic? What happens if they don't?
6. Why have there been so few Animagi?

[edit] Greater Picture

It will shortly turn out that Bode had been put under the Imperius curse by Lucius Malfoy, and forced to try and retrieve the Prophecy for Voldemort. The attempt had resulted in Bode's insanity, but it would be necessary to eliminate Bode if it looked like he was regaining the power of speech, as it would then be likely that he would be asked why he had done it, and would answer honestly. While we don't ever find out that Bode's death was a murder, it seems extremely likely.

Umbridge will, in fact, manage to find or generate enough "malfeasance" to fire both Trelawney and Hagrid, but in neither case will she quite manage the effect she is looking for. Trelawney, though fired, will remain resident in Hogwarts at Dumbledore's request, and will be replaced by a teacher competent enough to avoid examination, but absolutely hateful to Umbridge on personal grounds. And the attempt to fire Hagrid will require multiple Aurors, and will badly disrupt the Astronomy O.W.L. exam.

The rift created between Harry and Cho here in Madam Puddifoot's will be closed by the publication of Harry's interview in a few days, but this will be the last date they will ever go on. While both Harry and Cho will have meetings of Dumbledore's Army which they attend, publication of the interview will result in Umbridge canceling all further Hogsmeade weekends for everyone, and before that is rescinded, Harry and Cho will have had their final fight and their romance will have ended.

Hagrid's musing about "family", and about his and Harry's similarities, is largely here triggered by his struggles to civilize his half-brother, Grawp, coupled with the awareness that he may shortly be fired and forced to leave Hogwarts. Hagrid will later force Harry and Hermione to promise to continue this process, "just visitin' now and again", should Hagrid be fired.

Harry's interview will appear in The Quibbler very quickly. As a result, Harry will suddenly start getting huge amounts of mail, and much of it will seem to note "holes in the official Ministry story". Hermione, it will appear, had not been alone in her noticing pieces of the story that did not add up.

Chapter 26: Seen and Unforeseen

[edit] Synopsis

Luna Lovegood does not know when the interview with Harry will be published in The Quibbler. At dinner, Harry tells Dean Thomas, Seamus Finnigan, and Neville about the interview. All agree that Harry acted courageously. As they leave, Ron arrives from Quidditch practice, while Cho Chang walks in with Marietta Edgecombe, ignoring Harry. When Harry tells Hermione that their date went badly. Hermione suggests he approached it wrong. He should have told Cho that he really hated that he had to meet Hermione, and even though he did not really like her, he promised to go see her, ugly as she was. Harry protests that Hermione is not ugly. Harry thinks Hermione should write a book about how to understand girls, to which Ron whole-heartedly agrees. Ron and Ginny are dejected over how bad Quidditch practice was. Ginny, who is playing Seeker, says Angelina was in tears at the end. The Twins comment later to Harry and Hermione that Ginny is an excellent player. Hermione says she has been breaking into the Weasley broom shed and practicing since she was six-years-old. Fred laments that Quidditch was about the only thing keeping them at school. With the Skiving Snackbox line ready to go, they could open a store any time, and they do not need NEWTs to do that.

The following weekend's Quidditch game against Hufflepuff is awful as well, with only two mitigating factors: first, it is short, and second, due to Ginny's excellent flying, she grabs the Snitch from under the Hufflepuff's Seeker's nose, and Gryffindor loses by only ten points. That night, Harry has his recurring nightmare of long hallways and closed doors; he is awakened by Ron's loud snoring.

The following Monday at breakfast, Harry is surprised by a flock of owls delivering him mail. The Quibbler article was published over the weekend, and the letters seem evenly split between those who think he is insane, and others believing that his story fills the gaping holes in the Ministry's official version. Professor Umbridge is incensed, and immediately gives Harry detention and penalizes him 50 House points, as well as canceling further Hogsmeade visits. Very shortly, a new Educational Decree appears: possessing the Quibbler is an expulsion offence. Hermione is happy because it ensures the entire school will read it. And it appears the teachers have read it; Harry seems to be receiving extra favors from them. For Harry, the best result is that Cho seems to have forgiven him. Between classes, she says how brave he was to give the interview, and kisses him. Harry also sees Draco, Crabbe, and Goyle discussing something with another Slytherin boy in the library. Hermione says they are unable to contradict Harry's claims that their fathers are Death Eaters because they cannot admit to reading the Quibbler without risking being expelled.

That night, Harry has another disturbing dream in which he is Voldemort discussing Bode's death with Rookwood, one of the escaped Death Eaters. Voldemort is angry because Rookwood, who worked at the Ministry before his arrest, told him that the plan to extract something from the Ministry was doomed to fail. That is why Bode fought Malfoy's Imperius curse so strongly. Dismissing Rookwood, Voldemort asks to see Avery, who helped create the plan. Harry wakes up, screaming. Ron asks if there is another attack, but Harry says only the Death Eater Avery is in trouble. Ron wants him to tell Dumbledore, but Harry refuses, saying Dumbledore would not have had him learn Occlumency if he wanted to hear about these things.

Discussing Harry's dream the next day, Hermione speculates that Bode, under the Imperius curse, was being forced to steal the weapon at the Ministry, and, running afoul of the protective spells around it, went insane and landed in St. Mungo's. The healer there had said that Bode was recovering, so the Death Eaters probably killed him before he improved enough to recount what happened. Harry recalls that Lucius Malfoy was loitering in the Department of Mysteries the same day as his hearing. Hermione guesses that Lucius used the Imperius curse on Sturgis Podmore, which is why he was arrested trying to get through a security door at the Ministry.

Harry continues his Occlumency lessons, but his hatred for Snape prevents him from clearing his mind. Although he is making little progress, on one occasion, he briefly enters Snape's mind using a Shield Charm. The next attempt, Harry again experiences his corridors dream, but when he reaches the door, it is open for the first time. Snape breaks him from the vision, seeming concerned at what is appearing in Harry's mind. Their session is interrupted, by someone frantically screaming in the entrance hall. It is a hysterical Professor Trelawney, who has just been fired by Umbridge and ordered to leave Hogwarts immediately. Dumbledore intervenes, and although he is unable to reverse Trelawney's dismissal, he tells Umbridge that it is within his power to allow Trelawney to remain in residence at the castle. Dumbledore also tells her that he still has the authority to replace Trelawney with his own appointment, and, to Umbridge's outrage, he introduces the Centaur, Firenze, as the new Divination teacher.

[edit] Analysis

Skeeter's article changes many peoples' opinion about Harry and Dumbledore, although others remain unconvinced that Voldemort has returned. Umbridge is not only outraged, but she realizes the story will garner support for Harry while further eroding her and the Ministry's official stance. Her attempt to ban the story from Hogwarts only ensures that it will be read by even more students, and lends credibility to Harry's claim about Voldemort. Her previous Educational Decree prohibiting faculty and students from engaging in personal conversations, and this one banning simple possession of a newspaper, shows her increasing desperation and paranoia, and will only create further solidarity and opposition against her. Dumbledore does little to interfere with Umbridge's antics, knowing that she is her own worst enemy and will likely self-destruct given enough time. However, he does prevent Umbridge from ousting Trelawney from the castle, and further infuriates and undermines her authority by appointing the Centaur, Firenze, as Trelawney's replacement. We have already heard her speaking with almost unveiled hatred against "half-breeds", and it is certain that Dumbledore is aware that Umbridge feels the same way about centaurs as she does about Hagrid.

Hermione, in passing, is absolutely correct in her belief that Umbridge's banning the Quibbler will make absolutely sure that everyone in the school reads it. It is a simple fact of human nature that curiosity is strengthened by authority's attempts to hide an item; the more prohibitions are created around a piece of information, the more people want to read it, to see what is being hidden. That said, there is nothing Umbridge could have done at this point to prevent the article from being read and discussed; her high-handed treatment of the occupants of the school, staff and students alike, has made her a prime target for rebellion, and her attempts to bluster away the truth have left obvious voids in her stories which Harry's interview fills.

Meanwhile, Harry continues to struggle with Occlumency, although it may be his resistance to learning it that causes him difficulties. One must also assume that this is partially due to the teacher assigned to him. Snape can seldom resist an opportunity to needle Harry, and if Snape's teaching methods are to be trusted, the process' first step is to clear the mind of all emotion, something that appears to be nearly impossible for Harry in Snape's presence. Not only does Harry fail to understand why he must study Occlumency, he actually prefers knowing what Voldemort is thinking. However, Harry fails to consider that the connection between him and Voldemort could be a dangerous two-way path, something Dumbledore already suspects. It also seems odd that when Harry's vision becomes more detailed and focused, Snape prevents Harry from seeing what is inside the now-open door. Snape may know what is in there, but wants to prevent Harry from seeing it. Why is unknown, but if it there is something inside that is being protected, Voldemort could learn about it from Harry's thoughts.

Harry's dream here is quite plainly not a dream, like his earlier witnessing of the attack on Mr. Weasley. We now perceive that Podmore's arrest and imprisonment, and Bode's insanity, were side effects of a plan that Voldemort had put into motion to retrieve an item from the Ministry. Voldemort learns here that this plan will be ineffective, and that a new one will have to be devised. No clue is yet available as to what the new plan will involve, however.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Who does Dumbledore hire to replace Trelawney and why? What is Umbridge's reaction?
2. What is Hermione's theory about Bode?
3. What are the after effects of Skeeter's article in The Quibbler?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why does Dumbledore insist that Trelawney remain in the castle after Umbridge fires her?
2. Why would Umbridge ban possession of The Quibbler? What prompted this latest Decree? Would this be an effective measure? Why or why not?
3. Why would Snape suddenly break off Harry's vision during their Occlumency lesson? What could be behind the door?
4. Why does Snape break off Harry's vision just as he is about to enter the open door?

[edit] Greater Picture

Quite possibly, the reason that Dumbledore chooses to keep Trelawney at Hogwarts — affirmed somewhat by an exchange between Dumbledore and Harry in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince — is that were Trelawney to fall into Death Eaters' hands, they would attempt to extract the Prophecy revealed towards the end of this book, and thus learn its "missing" second half. Whether they succeeded in retrieving the prophecy from her or not, Trelawney very likely would not survive the attempt. Dumbledore's line in Chapter 20 of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is as follows: "Between ourselves, she has no idea of the danger she would be in outside the castle. She does not know — and I think it would be unwise to enlighten her — that she made the prophecy about you and Voldemort, you see."

It is possible that the overwhelming popularity of the Harry interview may have something to do with the Quibbler continuing to run stories about Harry that are counter to the official Ministry line in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Remembering that news about Harry sold much better than stories about Crumple-Horned Snorkacks, the editor may have decided that stories about Harry, being equally counter to the Ministry as his more sensational pieces but significantly more popular, would make for a more profitable paper.

Harry's dream here marks the change of Voldemort's strategy for retrieving the Prophecy. As noted, Voldemort discovers that his plan cannot succeed, and so he must devise a new one. Voldemort learns from Rookwood that only the people named on a Prophecy are able to remove it from the shelf without being driven mad, as Bode was, and as only Harry and Voldemort are named on this prophecy, one of them must be present to physically remove the Prophecy from its shelf. Voldemort quickly begins the process of luring Harry to the Department of Mysteries by means of the connection between them, gradually bringing him mentally further into the Hall of Prophecy until he is able to show Harry the place where the Prophecy is stored, and then fabricating an event to force Harry to attend that location. It is interesting how quickly this plan is put into play; in the Occlumency lesson of this chapter, we already see that the door has opened, an indication that Voldemort is pulling Harry deeper within his mental picture of the Department.

Chapter 27: The Centaur and the Sneak

[edit] Synopsis

Firenze begins teaching Divination, but because he is unable to access Trelawney's Tower, the class meets in a ground floor classroom that has been enchanted to appear as the evening forest. Firenze greets Harry, saying that it was foretold they would meet again. Harry notes a hoof-shaped bruise on Firenze's chest. Firenze explains that he would have preferred to teach students in the Forbidden Forest, but he has been banished by his herd for being too sympathetic to humans. Harry wonders if the bruise on Firenze's chest would match Bane's hoof.

Firenze says Divination is often inexact, even for Centaurs. They watch the sky for tides or changes so slow and subtle that it may take ten years to determine what they have seen. He dismisses Trelawney's teachings with an abruptness that disturbs Lavender and Parvati. As the class ends, he is unconcerned that none of the students have seen anything that he had told them about.

At the end of class, Firenze takes Harry aside and asks him to tell Hagrid that what Hagrid is doing will not work. Although Harry does not understand, he promises to tell Hagrid. However, with Umbridge now attending all of Hagrid's classes, it is April before Harry can pass on Firenze's message. Hagrid replies that the attempt is working fine, and Firenze does not know what he is talking about.

Harry has begun teaching Dumbledore's Army the Patronus charm, and, overall, the class is doing well. Neville, in particular, has been a revelation to Harry, working hard to master every spell, and improving with each lesson. During the last session before Easter break, Dobby runs in to warn them that Umbridge is on her way. Harry yells for everyone to run. Most escape, but Draco Malfoy catches Harry and turns him over to Umbridge. Harry is forcibly dragged to Dumbledore's office where he finds Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall, Cornelius Fudge, Percy Weasley, and two Ministry Aurors, including Kingsley Shacklebolt, an Order of the Phoenix member. On Dumbledore's silent instruction, Harry denies knowing why he is there; Umbridge fetches their informant Cho's friend Marietta. Although Marietta tries to hide her face, giant purple pimples spelling out "SNEAK" can be seen across it, the result of Hermione's jinx to reveal snitches. When Umbridge orders her to tell what she knows, she says nothing, apparently fearing more blisters may break out on her face.

Umbridge accuses Harry of holding an illegal meeting at the Hog's Head in Hogsmeade in October, saying this information came from Willy Widdershins. Professor McGonagall comments that she now understands why Willy was never charged for all those regurgitating toilets. Dumbledore points out that the meeting happened two days before the Decree and therefore was legal. Obviously, meetings since then have been banned, and Dumbledore asks if there any proof that such meetings had occurred. Harry feels something whoosh past him, and Marietta suddenly has a blank expression and is unable to speak. She silently nods her head in agreement to Dumbledore's assertion that there never was a Defence group. Frustrated, Umbridge produces the "Dumbledore's Army" parchment as proof that the Headmaster was involved. Dumbledore pleasantly admits that he was indeed building a secret wizard army, and says that this was to have been their first meeting. Fudge dispatches Percy to send the meeting notes to the Daily Prophet.

Dumbledore assures Fudge they will be unable to arrest him, and as Fudge orders the Aurors to take Dumbledore into custody, a white light suddenly streaks across the room, knocking out Umbridge, Fudge, Dawlish, and Shacklebolt and leaving the office in shambles. Dumbledore quickly confirms that Marietta, McGonagall, and Harry are all right, and tells McGonagall to thank Shacklebolt for modifying Marietta's memory. He tells Harry that it is important that he continue studying Occlumency with Snape, and taking hold of his Phoenix, Fawkes, disappears in a second flash of flame. Regaining consciousness, the two Aurors and Umbridge run for the Entrance Hall to try and catch Dumbledore.

[edit] Analysis

Firenze, it is noted here, has a very different style of teaching Divination than does Trelawney. While Trelawney seems to be trying to teach that the future can be seen to the finest detail, in Firenze's class, there is considerably less certainty. While it is hard to be certain exactly what Trelawney actually believes, one gathers the impression that she is trying to create the impression that the Seer has some special insight into a fixed, immutable future, so what she is teaching is similar in concept to seeing through a fog bank to view a solid rock mountain. Firenze, on the other hand, is more aware of the mutability of the future, and instead seems to teach method, in a way analogous to the idea that beyond the fog there is yet more fog, but that it is possible to determine shapes in the fog and thus infer possible outcomes. We can see quite easily that Firenze's techniques are similar to those of Native shamans and medicine men, while Trelawney's are the techniques of Muggle fortune-tellers. Contrasting them, one can see that Firenze probably believes in what he teaches, but that Trelawney must be aware that she is teaching fakery.

It is noted that this final meeting of Dumbledore's Army is the first one that Dean Thomas attends. This actually is more important than it seems; Harry has consistently had trouble pairing students in DA meetings for practice in dueling, and it would be noticeable if the group was suddenly evenly matched. As Marietta is, at this point, off spilling the beans to Umbridge, it is necessary that one new student arrive to prevent Harry from wondering about why they suddenly came out even.

Harry guesses that Marietta's memory has been altered even before Dumbledore says anything. Kingsley's secretly cast memory charm is apparently what Harry feels brushing past him. Additionally, Harry notices the glassy look in Marietta's eyes; he has seen that before, it is the immediate after-effect of a memory charm.

Although Harry believes Dumbledore has nearly abandoned him, Dumbledore shows here how far he will go to protect Harry from Umbridge and the Ministry by taking full responsibility for Dumbledore's Army. He easily overpowers Umbridge and the others and also knocks out Kingsley Shacklebolt, an Order member, to avoid casting suspicion on him. Before disappearing, Dumbledore stresses to Harry how important it is for him to continue studying Occlumency, although Harry is still unable to understand why.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why was Firenze banished from his herd?
2. What does McGonagall mean when she says she understands why Willy Widdershins was never charged?
3. What happened to Marietta Edgecombe's memory in Dumbledore's office? Who was responsible and why?
4. Why does Dumbledore tell Fudge he was responsible for the D.A.? What happens in his office immediately after?

[edit] Further Study

1. What could Hagrid be doing that Firenze says is not working? Could this have anything to do with Hagrid's battered appearance? Explain.
2. Why did Marietta Edgecombe betray Dumbledore's Army? Was she truly at fault? Explain.
3. Considering that it is impossible for anyone to Disapparate in or out of Hogwarts, how was Dumbledore able to escape? Why didn't the Ministry anticipate this?
4. What does Dumbledore tell Harry just before his spectacular departure? Why does he feel it is so important?

[edit] Greater Picture

We will find out shortly what Hagrid is attempting to do in the Forbidden Forest: he has brought his half-brother Grawp back with him from his encounter with the Giants, and is trying to civilize him. In later books, it will be discovered that this has, in fact, worked to some extent; in this case, Hagrid was right, and through sheer persistence has managed to accomplish something that the Centaurs, with their supposedly superior intelligence, had decided was doomed to failure.

Harry's teaching the Patronus charm will prove useful in the final book of the series, when Harry must make his way to the Whomping Willow. His way will be blocked by Dementors, and Harry, Ron, and Hermione will be unable to create Patronuses. The Dementors will be repelled by two DA members, Luna and Ernie Macmillan.

It is mentioned in this chapter that the parchment containing the list of Dumbledore's Army members was retrieved by Pansy Parkinson. This also is more important a connection than it would initially seem. Draco Malfoy, in the next book, will be given a task by Voldemort, who will tell him how to get into the Room of Requirement, that being a nominally secret place where Draco can carry out his instructions. Voldemort, having discovered only that one form of the Room, will believe that the Room is simply a "junk warehouse" and has no other purpose. Harry will find this aspect of the Room himself when he is looking to hide something later in that book. Draco, having been coached by Voldemort, will find only the "junk warehouse" aspect of the Room, and so will have a limited idea of what it can do. If it had been Draco who went into the Room of Requirement to retrieve the list, he would have likely figured out the full function of the Room, and would have been likely to discover it as the hiding place of the revived Dumbledore's Army in the final book. As he would have only known how to open its junk warehouse aspect, and as the room will not open for someone who is asking for an aspect other than the one that is already in use (as we find out in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince), Draco, if he had guessed where the new DA was hiding, would have been unsuccessful in getting the door to open, and likely would have guessed that it had simply been sealed after the events at the end of the sixth book.

Chapter 28: Snape's Worst Memory

[edit] Synopsis

Educational Decree Number Twenty-Eight makes Umbridge Headmistress, although she is unable to enter Dumbledore's office; it has magically sealed itself off from any but the true Headmaster. For now, she must continue using her old office. Umbridge appoints an Inquisitorial Squad composed of Slytherin students, including Draco, empowered to enforce rules and deduct House points. Montague, an Inquisitorial Squad member, attempts to dock House points from Fred and George Weasley, but they force him into an old, broken Vanishing Cabinet. Hermione is aghast, but Fred says that with Dumbledore gone, they no longer care about getting in trouble. They advise Harry, Ron, and Hermione to go into lunch to avoid accusations of being involved with Phase One.

Filch takes Harry aside, saying that the "Headmistress" wants to see him. Filch exults over how things will change with Umbridge in charge, and that a new Decree will restore corporal punishment; Umbridge has obviously recruited Filch to her side. Umbridge herself is uncharacteristically sweet, offering Harry something to drink, insisting he choose something. Harry notes that she hides the tea preparation, then recalls the Mad-Eye Moody impostor the previous year, and his refusal to drink anything offered to him. Harry carefully pretends to drink the tea. When Umbridge asks where Dumbledore is, Harry says he does not know. Umbridge then asks where Sirius Black is, and Harry responds that he does not know that either. Umbridge says that she knows Sirius was talking to Harry, and she would have Harry arrested if she had any proof. She also says that all Hogwarts fireplaces are being monitored except hers.

A loud explosion interrupts. Outside, Harry sees an enormous conflagration of exploding fireworks. Harry ducks behind a tapestry and finds Fred and George, who admit they are the culprits. The fireworks cause so much mayhem that school operations are continually disrupted. The faculty purposely do nothing to help Umbridge regain control, forcing her to personally attend to each incident. At day's end, Harry sees a disheveled Professor Umbridge leaving Professor Flitwick's classroom. Flitwick tells her, "I could have got rid of the sparklers myself, of course, but I wasn't sure whether I had the authority..." and shuts the door in Umbridge's face.

Harry has another dream that he is again in the Department of Mysteries. This time he goes through a door and into a room. Inside are rows of shelves containing small, glass spheres, but before reaching one, he is awakened by an exploding firework.

The next day, Harry runs into Cho Chang in the hall as he heads for his Occlumency lesson. Cho regrets that it was her friend Marietta who exposed Dumbledore's Army, although she defends what Marietta did, saying Marietta's mother works for the Ministry of Magic. Harry angrily responds that Ron's father does also. Cho is upset that Hermione secretly jinxed the parchment, believing it a dirty trick. Harry retorts that the jinx was brilliant and any reason for betraying the D.A. is inexcusable. As tears well up in Cho's eyes, Harry sternly warns her not to start crying again. Deeply offended, Cho storms off.

Harry's Occlumency session is interrupted when Malfoy arrives with a message that Umbridge needs to see Snape – Montague has reappeared, jammed inside a toilet. Snape departs, but before Harry can leave, he sees a shimmering light reminiscent of his dream about the Ministry coming from the Pensieve. What memories has Snape been hiding? Is it something to do with his dreams about the Ministry? Looking inside, Harry sees a young James Potter and Sirius Black at Hogwarts. They are cruelly tormenting their classmate, Severus Snape, by suspending him upside down in mid-air, exposing his dingy underwear. Lily Evans intervenes and berates James and Sirius for their deplorable behavior. James offers a deal—if she goes out with him, he will never hurt Snape again—to which she angrily declines. The humiliated Snape resents Lily's help and insultingly calls her a "Mudblood". Harry is appalled by his father's bullying, but before he can consider it further, the present-day Snape yanks him from the Pensieve. Furious, Snape demands that he never reveal what he has seen to anyone, and orders him to leave.

[edit] Analysis

Due to the Twin's magical pranks, school operations disintegrate into chaos; Umbridge is overwhelmed by the non-stop interruptions that she must personally attend to and is unlikely to regain control if they continue. The faculty, disliking her and resentful over Dumbledore's unwarranted dismissal, passively do nothing to assist her.

Harry and Cho Chang's relationship abruptly ends over the incident involving Marietta Edgecombe, although their disparate personalities, shaky circumstances, and differing expectations had derailed them almost from the beginning. Harry, inexperienced in romance, is unable to cope with Cho's extreme emotional needs and only wants an uncomplicated relationship, although his reaction to her was unnecessarily harsh and reflects his bouts of immature behavior. A still-grieving Cho was seeking comfort and support while attempting to fill the void caused by Cedric Diggory's tragic death (in Goblet of Fire). She may also have been attracted to Harry's celebrity, rather than to him. Regardless, neither could fulfill the other's needs or expectations.

Harry is deeply disturbed after viewing Snape's memory in the Pensieve. Although he admires and loves his father, he is appalled that someone could treat another person that way, even Snape. Seeing James and Sirius behaving as bullying tyrants who cruelly torment and demean Snape purely for their own amusement has severely shaken his belief that his father was a good man.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Harry become angry with Cho Chang? Was he justified and what is the result?
2. Why and how do Fred and George revolt against Umbridge?
3. Why do the other Hogwarts teachers do nothing to help Umbridge regain control of the school?
4. Why would Snape insult Lily when she was attempting to help him?

[edit] Further Study

1. If Umbridge wanted to catch Harry talking to Sirius, why does she warn him that all the fireplaces are being monitored?
2. Why would Snape hold a grudge against Harry for something James Potter and Sirius Black did to him before Harry was born?
3. Why does Harry react so strongly to what he sees in Snape's Pensieve?

[edit] Greater Picture

Snape's behavior towards Lily, in the Pensieve memory, probably seems typical of how he likely treated most classmates outside his own Slytherin House. However, Snape's memories in the final book reveal that he and Lily were once close friends, making his reaction to her assistance initially seem puzzling. Lily, disenchanted by his associations with future Death Eaters and his pro-pureblood beliefs, had gradually distanced herself from him, resulting in his angry outburst towards her.

Harry's forced re-evaluation of his own father actually foreshadows events in the final book. Here, we see that Harry had idolized his father, assuming from all he had been told, and his own personal beliefs, that James had been all good, with at most an admixture of mischief. In Snape's memories, he learns that his father was a bully, unfairly tormenting Snape in particular. Harry feels betrayed, as his father was not who Harry believed him to be. To resolve this disparity, Harry feels that he must speak with Sirius, to find out more about James' school days, and will break into Umbridge's office to do so. In the final book, Harry will learn some similarly unpleasant truths about the young Dumbledore, who he also has placed on a pedestal. Unfortunately, he will not have anyone to turn to there to find the truth of the matter; it will only be at the end of the book that he meets Dumbledore's brother Aberforth, and learns the truth about that part of Dumbledore's life.

Montague's mishap actually ends up being a fairly major plot point in the next book. The Vanishing Cabinet into which he was pushed, which is the one which Peeves knocked over in Harry's second year, is twin to one at Borgin and Burkes which Harry had actually hidden inside earlier that same year. Because the Vanishing Cabinet is broken, Montague is trapped, but he does recognize that he is sometimes in Borgin and Burkes, sometimes in Hogwarts. Draco gathers this information from him in the Hospital Wing, and it is somehow reported to Voldemort. As a result, Draco is set the task of repairing the Hogwarts cabinet, that it may be used to allow Death Eaters to enter the school.

Chapter 29: Careers Advice

[edit] Synopsis

As Spring Break begins, Hermione wonders why Harry's Occlumency lessons have abruptly ended; Harry, disturbed by the revelations about his father, claims that Snape had said he was good enough. Hermione, seeing that Harry is upset, asks if he had had a row with Cho. Harry admits they fought about Marietta. This starts Ron ranting about Marietta, which allows Harry time to brood over what he saw in the Pensieve.

Harry continues to fret about his father, trying to reconcile what others have said about James with the images from Snape's memory. Ginny suggests talking to Cho, but Harry, without telling her why, says he would rather talk with Sirius, though that is clearly impossible. Ginny says that growing up with Fred and George leads one to believe that nothing is impossible.

Meanwhile, a notice has been posted announcing career counseling for all Fifth Years. Each student is to meet with their head of House to discuss careers. While Harry, Ron, and Hermione are looking through career choices, Fred and George approach saying Ginny told them that Harry wants to contact Sirius. They have a diversion planned so Harry can use the fireplace in Umbridge's office to contact Sirius. Hermione worries it is too dangerous, but Ron feels it is Harry's decision. Fred says the diversion will go off at 5:00 p.m. Monday.

On Monday, Hermione repeatedly warns Harry that breaking into Umbridge's office is too risky, but Harry is determined. After Potions class, Harry arrives for his Careers Advice meeting with Professor McGonagall only to find Umbridge sitting in, taking notes on her clipboard. Harry tentatively suggests that he wants to be an Auror, a Dark Wizard catcher, and McGonagall begins outlining what courses he needs to take. Umbridge interrupts to say Harry should consider another occupation because his grades in her Defence Against the Dark Arts class are too low, and the Ministry would never hire someone with a criminal record. A furious McGonagall retorts that Harry was found innocent and has always received high marks from competent Defence Against the Dark Arts teachers, and vows to do everything in her power to help him become an Auror. Umbridge is livid and accuses McGonagall of supporting Dumbledore's efforts to depose Fudge, and make herself Deputy Minister and Hogwarts' Headmistress. McGonagall responds that Umbridge is raving and dismisses Harry, who leaves as their heated argument escalates.

Seeing Umbridge's angry mood in the succeeding Defence Against the Dark Arts class, Hermione again urges Harry to forget about breaking into her office. But Harry cannot wait until summer before talking to Sirius, and, hearing the diversion upstairs, dons his Invisibility Cloak and enters Umbridge's office. Using Floo powder, Harry sends his head to Grimmauld Place. Lupin greets him, then gets Sirius, who is apparently looking for Kreacher.

Harry asks Sirius about the incident with his father and Snape. Sirius admits that he and James were once bullies, explaining that they were uncaring, foolish, and reckless youths, although Snape was not such an innocent victim as he appears. He says they outgrew their bullying ways and stresses that James matured into a kind, compassionate man. His explanation does little to soothe Harry, however, who knows he would never behave like his father at that age. When Harry mentions he is no longer studying Occlumency, Lupin strongly urges him to resume the lessons. Hearing footsteps, Harry pulls himself from the fire and hides under the Invisibility cloak. Filch enters Umbridge's office to search for the necessary forms to authorize whipping a student.

Exiting Umbridge's office, Harry discovers that Fred and George have been caught and are more or less at bay in the Entrance Hall. Umbridge threatens severe punishment, but the Twins proclaim they have had enough. Summoning their confiscated brooms, they hop on and tell students to visit their new joke shop in Diagon Alley. They give Peeves the Poltergeist a final salute, telling him, "Give her hell from us, Peeves," then zoom off, leaving Hogwarts for good.

[edit] Analysis

Umbridge is well aware that Harry was exonerated of all (trumped up) charges for using underage magic, and she has deliberately graded him low in her class. She obviously has ulterior motives for attempting to derail Harry's career plans, and she seems to deliberately engage McGonagall in a head-on confrontation over it. Now that Dumbledore has been ousted, Umbridge may be trying to eliminate his loyal Hogwarts staff and friends, including McGonagall, who she likely views as the most formidable threat to her unrelenting drive to control the school.

Harry's hesitating about suggesting Auror as a career, we can see plainly, is due to his fear that he is not good enough to be accepted into an elite group. He is heartened immediately when McGonagall does not dismiss this ambition, and is elated when McGonagall, admittedly in reaction to Umbridge's argument, promises to help Harry qualify for that position. Harry is still, to some extent, unsure of his place in the Wizarding world, and uncertain what his future will be; McGonagall's promise reassures him that he not only has a place, but a future, in that world.

Although Snape's extreme reaction to Harry witnessing his worst memory is unreasonable, Harry now understands why Snape hates Sirius and his father, and, by extension, him. It also alters Harry's opinion about James, the father he has loved and admired unconditionally, but never knew. However, the father Harry idolizes is a somewhat idealized figure that he has based on other peoples' favorable recollections, and not the bullying boy he views in the Pensieve, although neither version is completely accurate. Despite Sirius' explanation that he and James were uncaring, arrogant youths who acted idiotically, and his assertion that James matured into a kind, compassionate adult, Harry has difficulty reconciling his father's abysmal behavior when he compares it to his own benevolent nature at the same age. But Harry fails to realize that youth are not born to behave in any particular manner, and that each person's unique experiences and influences results in different actions and attitudes that eventually shapes them into the adults they become. James was a pampered, only child in a wealthy household, probably with few cares, responsibilities, or consideration for others; in some ways, he shares traits with Draco Malfoy, although it is to James' credit that the cruel bully that Harry witnessed matures into the good man he became. Harry's innate compassion stems more from his own mistreatment and hardships, which he would never wish to be inflicted on others. Harry also neglects to consider that he is descended also from his mother. Although he loves Lily as much as James, he has, perhaps, overlooked and under appreciated her accomplishments, abilities, and influences on his life and instead focuses more on his father. Harry also does not realize that James' transformation likely was partially due to Lily's influence.

Although the Twins are caught, Umbridge's pleasure in the capture and planned punishment is thwarted when they hop onto their brooms and, exiting Hogwarts, proclaim they have had enough. Despite their spotty academic achievement and meager O.W.L.s, the Twins are powerful and talented wizards, and their claims that there is little left for them to learn at school is certainly accurate. Molly Weasley almost certainly will be distraught when she hears what happened, believing that without graduating, their futures are grim. But Fred and George are well on their way to starting their own successful business, thanks to Harry's financial backing.

Fred and George Weasley are the only students to successfully give Peeves an order in the known history of the school. This might be because the order they give is so closely in line with Peeves' natural inclination.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why did Snape end Harry's Occlumency lessons? What are the possible consequences for Harry?
2. What might be the real reason Umbridge advises Harry to pursue another occupation? What does McGonagall have to say?
3. Is there any validity to Umbridge's accusation that McGonagall wants to take over as Headmistress, and what might be behind it? What is McGonagall's response?
4. Why does Harry want to talk to Sirius about his father? What does Sirius tell him?
5. Why is Harry still conflicted about his father after talking to Sirius? Is Harry's opinion of the youthful James Potter's behavior unfair? If so, why?
6. Why are Fred and George willing to create a distraction so Harry can use the fireplace in Umbridge's office? Is it just to help Harry? Were they concerned if they were caught?

[edit] Further Study

1. What does Harry think about his father after talking to Sirius?
2. What should Harry do about Snape? Some readers have suggested that, having discovered the grounds for Snape's dislike, Harry should apologize for having viewed his memories. Others believe that Harry's knowledge of this event changes nothing, Harry's and Snape's mutual dislike would prevent this happening or being useful if it did. What is your opinion?
3. Has Harry tended to overlook his mother's accomplishments and influence on him? If so, why?

[edit] Greater Picture

This chapter may be foreshadowing Harry and Ginny's relationship in the next book. Though Harry feels hurt and somewhat betrayed at the thought that his father was not the man that everyone had said he was, and dreads the thought that Snape might be right about him, it is Ginny who manages to cheer Harry up by suggesting that talking to Sirius about it is not as impossible as it seems. In addition, after his talk with Ginny, Harry comments to himself that he felt good, but does not know whether it is because he had "spoken aloud the wish that had been burning inside him for a week", to speak to Sirius, or if it’s the chocolate. The reader may suspect that it is partly Ginny's presence, partly the fact that she seems to believe that talking to Sirius is possible.

Harry's idealized mental image of his father is mainly based on others' recollections about James Potter, as well as his own feelings. In the previous chapter, Harry witnessed an event in James' early life that directly contradicts Harry's understanding. Sirius explains that Harry witnessed James' behavior when he was only fifteen, to which Harry exclaims, "I'm fifteen!" Harry has yet to grasp what Dumbledore told him at the end of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets: "It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities." James ultimately chose the path leading to his fully admirable maturity.

Harry is not only James Potter's son, but also Lily Potter's. In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, in Snape's memories, we hear Snape commenting, "He is his father all over again —", to which Dumbledore replies, "In looks, perhaps, but his deepest nature is much more like his mother's." Harry has mainly focused on his father's legacy, largely ignoring his mother's contributions, possibly in part because everyone comments on how extraordinarily like his father he looks. Also, boys typically identify more closely with their fathers. Snape certainly has trouble getting past Harry and James' similar physical appearance, however unfair that is to Harry. It is apparent that Harry fails to recognize that his gentle nature and consideration for others at age 15 reflects Lily, rather than James.

It is interesting to note that Harry's expectation that James at 15 would behave the same way Harry does at 15 will be repeated. In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Harry will discover that at 17, the same age Harry is then, Dumbledore, with Grindelwald, had been planning what amounts to conquest of the Muggle world "for the greater good." At that point, Harry will discover that another of his heroes had been, in his youth, someone radically different from what they later became. Even at 17, and with his father's example before him, Harry will not yet fully accept Dumbledore's maxim that choices matter more than abilities. It is perhaps of interest that this maxim comes from Dumbledore's personal experience.

Chapter 30: Grawp

[edit] Synopsis

Fred and George's departure quickly grows into Hogwarts' legend over the next few days. Even those who were there are almost convinced that the twins dive-bombed Umbridge with Dungbombs as they left. To add to the legend, there are now two broom-shaped holes in Umbridge's office door. The twins also left a large swamp in the fifth-floor corridor, which the teachers seem unable to remove, although Harry suspects Professor McGonagall or Professor Flitwick could remove it if they wished. A grumbling Filch is pressed into duty punting students across the swamp in between classes. With Fred and George gone, many students are trying for the job of chief troublemaker, with the result that the corridors are overwhelmingly redolent of dungbombs and stink pellets, and it becomes fashionable to invoke a Bubble-Head Charm on oneself before leaving the classroom. Someone has also put a Niffler into Umbridge's office despite her new door, and having destroyed the office, it tried to gnaw the rings off her stubby fingers. Umbridge, Filch, and the new Inquisitorial Squad are run ragged attending to the disturbances, but even the Inquisitorial Squad fall prey to the occasional jinx that takes them to the Hospital Wing. It seems also that Fred and George sold a huge number of Skiving Snackboxes, as Umbridge has only to enter a class for the students to break out in fevers, vomiting, bloody noses, and fainting spells. And Peeves is everywhere, causing havoc. The staff, except Filch, seem unwilling to help Umbridge; Harry saw Professor McGonagall walk past Peeves who was unscrewing a crystal chandelier, and he was almost sure he heard her telling Peeves it unscrewed the other way. Finally, Montague remains confused and disoriented from his sojourn in the toilet.

Ron worries that his mother will blame him for the twins' departure. When he and Hermione wonder how they can afford to open their own joke shop in Diagon Alley, Harry finally confesses that he gave them his Triwizard winnings. Hermione asks Harry when he restarts Occlumency lessons. Harry had told Hermione and Ron about Sirius wanting him to start Occlumency again, because he still did not want to tell them about what he had seen in the Pensieve. But now Hermione is nagging him to restart lessons with Professor Snape, and Harry does not want to explain why that will not happen.

The final Quidditch match is Gryffindor vs. Ravenclaw, and Ron is nervous. The match has barely started, however, and Ron has only let in one goal when Harry and Hermione are quietly approached by Hagrid, who says he has something important to show them in the Forbidden Forest. Hagrid leads them into the forest, carrying a large crossbow. The centaurs, he explains, are still angry about Firenze working for Dumbledore, and they were attacking Firenze when Hagrid intervened. Hagrid says he expects to be sacked soon. Umbridge accused Hagrid of putting a Niffler in her office because it was a magical creature. She has been trying to fire him anyway. He says he will need their help if he is sacked. Harry promises to help. Hagrid leads them to a small glen and a sleeping Giant. Hagrid says its name is Grawp, and it is his half-brother. He brought Grawp back from the mountains with him after his failed mission with Madam Maxime to recruit the giants against Voldemort. Grawp was mistreated by the other Giants for being "small" – only sixteen feet tall. Hagrid has been attempting to civilize Grawp and teach him English, although the Giant only seems capable of pulling trees up by their roots. Hagrid admits that Grawp is still half-wild, and he has had difficulty controlling him, which explains his battered appearance when he returned to Hogwarts and why Grawp is tied up. Hagrid claims Grawp is much tamer now, and he asks if Harry, Ron, and Hermione will visit and help teach him English. Grawp wakes up, and Hagrid introduces Harry and "Hermy", though it is hard to tell how much Grawp comprehends. Harry now understands Firenze's warning to Hagrid that, "the attempt is not working."

Centaurs appear and threaten Hagrid, angry that he brought a Giant into their forest. They are also still furious that Firenze has betrayed them by entering into "human servitude." Hagrid is not intimidated, and the Centaurs agree to let him pass only because he is accompanied by innocent "foals" (Harry and Hermione). When Harry and Hermione return to the Quidditch game, they hear a new version of "Weasley is Our King", only it is not the Slytherins singing it. Gryffindor has won the match and the Quidditch Cup, apparently thanks to Ron’s suddenly superb Keeping.

[edit] Analysis

It is interesting to note that it is the absence of Fred and George which apparently causes the tremendous increase in mischief. The explanation provided by the author, that many were vying for the post of chief troublemaker, seems rather weak; however, it is possibly an accurate description of the actual events. It is unlikely that students are actually vying for this particular position, but it is likely true that those students who would be pulling pranks have been held in check by Fred and George. If one is in a school with a master practical joker like Fred or George, one tends to avoid pulling pranks because one might be seen as simply a poor imitation of the master(s). With Fred and George gone, that restraint is no longer there. The hatred of Umbridge for her repression, plus her obvious ineffectiveness dealing with the fireworks and the swamp, will tend to inspire the less-enlightened pranksters to break out the dungbombs, and the other teachers' unwillingness to assist Umbridge in her futile attempts to keep order will make the problems worse.

Peeves' increased activity is mentioned, and possibly is worthy of discussion as well. This is the first time that Peeves has been noted as being more active, despite Professor Dumbledore's earlier absences. We are led to believe that Peeves can be controlled only by Dumbledore and the Bloody Baron, though the author, in an interview, has suggested that Dumbledore does not actually control Peeves. From his actions in this chapter, we may begin to suspect that Peeves' activities could be seen as an indicator of the overall level of satisfaction in the school; he is less active when the population is happy.

We suddenly have an explanation for a number of things that we have been wondering about, and many things that have happened but have not caused significant concern. With the revelation of Grawp's existence, we suddenly see why Hagrid was so late in returning from his mission, why he is always injured, why he seems to be spending more time than usual in the Forbidden Forest, and why he is suddenly thinking more about family than he has been previously. Other commentators have mentioned that one of Rowling's great strengths is in handling the set-up and the pay-off, leading you up to the fact, then revealing it at a particularly satisfying time. This is a classic example; we've heard of Hagrid's expedition to the Giants, and seen the aftermath of that visit, and now suddenly the explanation for that aftermath is revealed. This is only one of a number of cases, some spanning several books, where we see the build-up to an event followed by the wholly satisfactory revelation.

Of all the characters in the Harry Potter series, probably none are as lonely and isolated as Hagrid. Not even Harry's unhappy family life, Sirius Black's difficult childhood, or Remus Lupin's social ostracism compares to Hagrid's utter alienation. Many wizards either are indifferent, fear him, or, like Umbridge, consider him sub-human. Even though most Hogwarts students and staff like him and accept him as an equal, he has never shared a close relationship with anyone there other than Harry, who knows what it is like to lack a family. Harry has been his closest friend and acts as a surrogate relative. Now Hagrid has an opportunity to have a real family by having brought back his half-brother, although it remains doubtful whether Grawp can ever be completely civilized. However, Hagrid faces losing this opportunity if Umbridge succeeds in dismissing him, and Hagrid turns to the Trio for help, although it is uncertain if there is much they can actually do.

We see here also that Ron is able to perform quite well once he has his confidence; it seems that once he managed to find his stride, he managed to defend the goal posts quite well. We don't yet know what has happened; presumably we will find out next chapter, but here we see that Ron is carrying the Quidditch Cup and being carried on Gryffindor's shoulders, so we can safely bet that it is his performance that has saved the game for Gryffindor.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. What does Hagrid want to show Harry and Hermione? Why does he show it to them now?
2. What does Hagrid ask the Trio to do? Is this putting them in danger?
3. Why do the Centaurs threaten Hagrid? Why do they let him pass?
4. Why has the demeaning Slytherin song changed its meaning, and who is singing it now?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why did Hagrid bring Grawp back with him? What does he hope to accomplish, and is it possible?
2. Why do the Centaurs consider what Firenze did a betrayal? Is it?

[edit] Greater Picture

In this chapter we learn of the current temper of the Centaurs. Already aloof, they have been angered by Firenze's defection, and Hagrid's interfering in his punishment for that defection. Hermione will later use this against Umbridge; trapped, she will invent a weapon that Umbridge has to possess. She will place that weapon in the Forbidden Forest, and in search of it will lead Umbridge into the realm of the Centaurs. There, Umbridge's hatred of "half-breeds" will result in the Centaurs dealing with her.

Hermione, hearing in this chapter that the Centaurs do not war against "foals", will think herself and Harry safe as they bring Umbridge to the Centaurs, but will not reckon with the Centaur's intellect. They will see that Hermione had tricked them into entering a purely Human conflict, and will be on the verge of sending Hermione and Harry to the same fate as Umbridge. Grawp's presence in the Forest will be the only thing that will save them; having broken free of his chains, he is roaming the forest looking for Hagrid, and will stumble across the clearing where Harry, Hermione, and the Centaurs are, breaking the deadlock and allowing Harry and Hermione to escape.

It is in the next chapter that we learn the details of Ron's almost-miraculous improvement in Keeping. While this does provide a much-needed boost to Ron's confidence, it will prove to be insufficient in the long run. In the next book, Harry will feel that Ron is so lacking in confidence as Keeper that he will have to artificially boost his confidence.

Chapter 31: O.W.L.s

[edit] Synopsis

Ron's elation over his performance and Gryffindor's victory lasts well into the next day. Harry and Hermione let him enjoy it before telling him they missed the match because Hagrid dragged them away to tell them about Grawp. Ron is incredulous that Hagrid brought back a Giant and reluctant to help care for one, much less teach it English. "He's lost his mind!" Hermione concurs, but says they promised to help Hagrid.

The Fifth Year Ordinary Wizarding Level examinations begin, and Harry is relieved that many questions cover familiar information. In the first week, he performs creditably in Charms, Transfiguration, Herbology, and Defence Against the Dark Arts. Harry receives an extra mark in this last exam for producing a Patronus when requested. Professor Umbridge, who is observing, seems pleased, but Harry does not care. After her Ancient Runes exam, Hermione reports that someone put another Niffler into Umbridge's office; it will be another excuse to sack Hagrid.

The following Monday, Harry does reasonably well in the Potions exam as Snape is not present. Tuesday is Care of Magical Creatures, and Wednesday morning is Astronomy. Both Harry and Ron fail Divination miserably on Wednesday afternoon. During the evening Astronomy practical exam, Harry spies Umbridge and a group heading for Hagrid's hut. A battle breaks out, and the group emerges, attempting to stun Hagrid with their wands, although his massive body deflects the spells. Professor McGonagall runs to Hagrid's aid, but she is hit by several stunning spells and knocked off her feet. Hagrid escapes, and McGonagall is rushed to the hospital wing. A distressed Harry, and the other Gryffindors who witnessed this, discuss it later in the common room. Hermione comments that the Nifflers found in Umbridge's office will be used as a pretext for sacking him. Lee Jordan admits that he levitated them into her office, but Hermione says it does not matter; Umbridge hates what she calls "half-breeds" and would have sacked him anyway. The Common room does not clear out until four in the morning, and Harry's three hours of restless sleep are filled with vengeful dreams.

Harry is exhausted the next day and falls asleep during the afternoon History of Magic exam. He experiences another vision, seeing himself entering the room with the glass orbs. Inside, Voldemort's voice orders a black, shapeless heap on the floor to pick up an orb. The "heap" is Sirius, being tortured by Voldemort.

[edit] Analysis

Ron's opinion about the wisdom of taking on the gigantic task of civilizing Grawp clearly echoes Harry and Hermione's. Because Hagrid is not present, he alone is able to verbalize the doubts of the entire Trio, and does so with his usual outspokenness. The author points up Hermione's unhappiness with the fact that they have promised to take this on, in the event that Hagrid gets sacked. Hagrid does get sacked, most dramatically, and the Trio now will have the responsibility of visiting Grawp occasionally, despite the fact that they are not allowed in the Forbidden Forest, and against the wishes of the Centaurs.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. What is Ron's reaction when Harry and Hermione tell him about Grawp?
2. What does Harry witness during his Astronomy exam? What happens to McGonagall?
3. What does Harry "see" during his History of Magic O.W.L. exam?

[edit] Further Study

1. Umbridge seems pleased when Harry conjures a Patronus in his Defence Against the Dark Arts OWL. Why? This is not something that she has taught; why does she not wonder where he had learned it?

[edit] Greater Picture

Following his dream, Harry will be in a panic over Sirius, positive he is in danger, but it seems there is no one he can to turn to. Umbridge is in complete control, Dumbledore and Hagrid are now gone, Harry will shortly find that Professor McGonagall has gone to St. Mungo's, and there seems little that Ron and Hermione can do. However, Harry is overlooking the one person left who can help him: Professor Snape, also an Order member. He has also forgotten (deliberately) the package Sirius gave him at Christmas, which Sirius had said would be a way to reach him at any time.

We will shortly find that Harry's dream has been created by Voldemort, as a means of luring Harry into the Department of Mysteries at the Ministry. Voldemort has been seeking an object, a Prophecy, which is contained in one of the small glass orbs that Harry sees in his vision. These orbs are charmed such that only those to whom they refer can safely touch them; Voldemort knows that only he and Harry can retrieve the prophecy from the shelf where it lies, and has determined to trick Harry into doing it for him.

In the rush of events, the Trio will quite forget their promise to visit Grawp. However, the time involved will be very short: the Astronomy exam, we see here, is Wednesday night, and that is when Hagrid is sacked; the History of Magic exam, Friday afternoon, is when Harry has his dream, and they will visit the Ministry this same evening. That visit will culminate with a battle, which will result in the reappearance of Dumbledore and the Ministry admitting the return of Voldemort. One of the demands Dumbledore makes is that the Ministry stop chasing his groundskeeper, meaning that Hagrid is free to return to Hogwarts only two days after having been driven away.

Chapter 32: Out of the Fire

[edit] Synopsis

Harry is frantic about Sirius, and rushes to the infirmary to see the only member of the Order of the Phoenix that he can think of: Professor McGonagall. Madam Pomfrey says that Professor McGonagall has been transferred to St. Mungo's Hospital. Harry is unsure what to do; Dumbledore, McGonagall, and Hagrid are now gone. He runs to find Ron and Hermione. Convinced his vision is real, as the vision of Ron's dad had been real before Christmas, Harry wants to go immediately to the Ministry of Magic in London to save Sirius. Hermione warns him that the vision could be false, and suggests that Harry seems to "have a bit of a — a — saving-people thing". She urges him to verify if Sirius actually is in the Ministry and reluctantly suggests using Umbridge's fireplace to contact Grimmauld Place to see if Sirius is there. Ginny and Luna Lovegood, who had joined the conversation having heard Harry's shouting, volunteer to help.

Ron volunteers to distract Umbridge, while Ginny and Luna stand guard outside her office. Harry and Hermione, under Harry's Invisibility Cloak, sneak into the empty office. Harry uses Floo powder to contact Grimmauld Place. Kreacher, the Black family House Elf, answers and tells Harry that Sirius has gone out. Harry demands to know if Sirius has gone to the Department of Mysteries, and Kreacher says Sirius did not tell him, but adds gleefully that Sirius will never come back. Umbridge suddenly yanks Harry from the fireplace, demanding to know who he is speaking to. Ron, Luna, Hermione, Ginny, and Neville have been captured by Umbridge's Inquisitorial Squad.

When Harry refuses to answer Umbridge, she sends Malfoy to fetch Snape. Harry suddenly remembers that Snape is an Order member. Snape arrives, and Umbridge asks him to use Veritaserum on Harry. Snape says that he gave Umbridge his entire stock, reminding her that three drops would have been sufficient; it will take a month to brew more. Harry desperately yells, "He's got Padfoot at the place where it's hidden." Umbridge asks what this means; Snape coldly replies he has no idea what Potter is blathering about, and leaves.

Umbridge prepares to use the Cruciatus curse on Harry to extract information. She admits to having sent the Dementors to his home last summer. As she is about to curse him, Hermione bursts out "crying" and blurts that Harry was contacting Professor Dumbledore about a weapon he had the students build for him. They were trying to let him know it is ready, but hadn't reached him. Umbridge demands to see the weapon. Hermione agrees to lead her to it, but convinces her to leave the members of the Inquisitorial Squad in her office, guarding the other students.

[edit] Analysis

Hermione believes Sirius may not actually be in danger and warns Harry that he is possibly being lured into a trap. She is not being overly cautious; Harry often acts rashly and without considering the possible consequences. Hermione, with her mention of a "saving-people thing", is here verbalizing an aspect of Harry's personality which has been obvious to the reader throughout, but which Harry himself may not yet have recognized. Hermione has previously criticized him for often rushing in to be the "hero" whenever he believes friends are in danger, just as he did during the Second Task of the Triwizard Tournament when he attempted to "rescue" all the hostages, even though Ron, Hermione, Cho, and Gabrielle, who were tethered underwater, were magically protected and never in any danger. This trait has made Harry dangerously predictable to his enemies.

Kreacher tells Harry that Sirius is gone from Grimmauld Place, but the loyal (although not to Sirius) Black family House-elf is an unreliable source. It should be noted that Kreacher has chosen his words carefully, possibly coached by someone: while he does say his master has gone out, he never explicitly states that Sirius is at the Department of Mysteries.

Once again, Neville has been dragged in simply because he was at the wrong place at the wrong time. One might wonder if the author has something against Neville, as he always seems to be getting himself into trouble that is not of his own making, sometimes dragging others with him.

We see again something of Umbridge's personality in her treatment of Snape. When Umbridge's demand for Veritaserum is met with the simple fact that it will take a month to make more, Umbridge, in what might be best described as a fit of pique, says that Snape is on probation. If we assume that Snape is loyal to the Order, and that he is either concealing a stock of Veritaserum, or overstating the preparation time, then Umbridge's rage might be valid, but placing a teacher on probation for failure to perform extracurricular activities is unwarranted and laughable.

The episode with the Veritaserum should actually reinforce any belief Harry has in Snape's loyalty to the Order. This episode makes it very likely that Umbridge had, in fact, placed what she thought was Veritaserum in Harry's tea when she had her interview with him earlier, but that she had never used Veritaserum before; clearly unaware of its effects, she did not recognize that Harry was not showing the effects of Veritaserum as he answered her questions. She had also apparently used the entire vial in the process, making it so that even a tiny amount of the drugged tea would have affected Harry. From this, Harry should be able to guess that Snape had given Umbridge something other than Veritaserum. This would have been a way that Snape could have betrayed the Order without seeming to: he could have provided Umbridge with true Veritaserum, claiming that he had not known what she wanted it for, and then simply stood by as Harry betrayed Sirius to her. His providing fake Veritaserum to Umbridge certainly indicates more loyalty to the Order than Harry currently expects from him.

Snape's dismissal of Harry's plea concerning Padfoot, however, leaves Harry certain that Snape will not be informing the Order of Harry's fears. Harry has previously seen Snape and Sirius at wands' point with each other, and so has reason to fear that, given the chance to save Sirius, Snape would simply do nothing. It is extremely likely that Hermione shares this belief, which is why she concocts this risky plan to get Umbridge on her own.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. What does Harry do after having a vision? Who does he go to for help?
2. Why does Hermione want Harry to use the fireplace to contact Sirius at Grimmauld Place? Who does he talk to and what does Harry learn? Is the source reliable?
3. What does Hermione tell Umbridge after she and Harry are caught? Why does Hermione tell her this?

[edit] Further Study

1. Why does Harry forget that Snape is a member of the Order?

[edit] Greater Picture

Although Snape appears to coldly disregard Harry's plea about Padfoot, he is carefully maintaining his cover as Dumbledore's double agent. According to Dumbledore later, Snape had immediately checked on Sirius' safety, then alerted the Order of the Phoenix when Harry and Hermione did not return from the Forbidden Forest. Harry, informed of this, believes that Snape deliberately waited too long before summoning help. Although Snape does sound the alarm, it can be debated whether he acted quickly enough and if that affected the resulting consequences. Even assuming Snape is loyal to the Order of the Phoenix and Dumbledore, he was in an interesting position here. If he deliberately waited to warn Phoenix headquarters, he could have allowed his hated nemesis (Sirius) to possibly be killed by Voldemort without him (Snape) technically betraying the Order. However, Snape claims that he had checked on Sirius, though we have only his word for this, and he could have altered his story in light of circumstances. If Snape was still unaware whether or not Sirius was actually in danger, the temptation to delay warning the Order would certainly have been present. On the other hand, there is no indication that Snape did anything to endanger Sirius. Although Dumbledore later defends Snape's actions and reiterates his continued trust in him, Harry, and readers, will continue to doubt Snape's loyalty.

Harry's predictable behavior will be used against him again in the final book when he is recognized by using his signature Expelliarmus spell. However, he will deliberately exploit this predictability in his final confrontation with Lord Voldemort.

Kreacher's response to Harry may have been dictated in part or in full by Voldemort, acting through the Malfoy family. Interestingly, we will find out later that Voldemort has had direct dealings with Kreacher before, and will have believed that Kreacher died; if Voldemort had known that "the Black family house elf" that was talking to Narcissa was, in fact, the same elf that he had utilized before, he might have been more worried about his Locket Horcrux. Discounting other types of magic as much as he does, however, it is hardly surprising that he dismissed the possibility that the two Black family house elves were both Kreacher.

As mentioned, Kreacher's words are carefully chosen. Kreacher knows that the ultimate plan is to lure Harry to the Department of Mysteries and then send Sirius after him, thus disposing of Sirius who is, in his mind, a blood traitor and unfit to be his Master. So Kreacher is speaking truthfully when he says that Sirius will never return from the Department of Mysteries, and very carefully avoids saying that he is at Grimmauld Place when Harry asks. The only outright lie that Kreacher makes is when he says, "Master has gone out." "Nobody here but Kreacher," is shading the truth; Kreacher is the only one in the kitchen, certainly. But Kreacher does know that Sirius is upstairs tending to Buckbeak, who Kreacher injured.

Despite his carefully chosen words, though, Kreacher is lying to Harry to mislead him. In our interactions with Dobby, we have seen that deceptions like this will produce agitation in a House-elf if he is acting against instructions. That Kreacher seems quite cool about this aligns with what Dumbledore later tell Harry: "You are not his master, he could lie to you without even needing to punish himself."

While we wonder at Neville's inclusion in the group, he will be of some use in the upcoming battle in the Ministry. While his contribution there will be limited, we will see that it acts as something of a "baptism of fire", resulting in his being much more effective in later battles and in the guerrilla fighting at Hogwarts in the final book.

Chapter 33: Fight and Flight

[edit] Synopsis

Hermione leads Umbridge and Harry (who is trying to look like he knows where they are going) into the Forbidden Forest. When Umbridge questions this, Hermione points out that they could not have built a weapon anywhere that it would be found easily by the students, could they? Harry has no idea where Hermione is taking them, although he notices that she has avoided the path leading to Grawp, instead apparently taking the one that leads towards Aragog. Harry knows Hermione had not been with them on that trip, and wonders if she has any idea where she is headed. He also thinks she is deliberately being noisy.

As they approach a clearing, an arrow whizzes through the air, hitting a tree. About fifty Centaurs appear on all sides, demanding to know why the humans are in their forest. Treating them as inferior half-breeds, a haughty Umbridge unleashes an insulting tirade, infuriating the Centaurs. When she binds Magorian, the Centaurs charge; Harry and Hermione duck to avoid the flying hooves. Bane seizes Umbridge; she drops her wand, but before Harry can reach it, another centaur has stepped on it and broken it. As other Centaurs lift up Harry and Hermione, they see Bane carrying the hysterically screaming Umbridge into the woods. Hermione tries explaining the situation to the other Centaurs, hoping to gain their sympathy, but they only become angrier at being involved in human affairs and want to attack her and Harry. Despite her protests that they are "foals", and Ronan's reminder that they do not attack young humans, the Centaurs consider Harry and Hermione as devious as their adult counterparts. As they are about to carry off Harry and Hermione, Grawp crashes through the trees. Recognizing "Hermy", he yells for "Hagger" (Hagrid). The panicked Centaurs shoot him with arrows. Enraged, the Giant howls in pain as the arrows become embedded in his face, and flails blindly at the Centaurs. Harry and Hermione, splattered with Grawp's blood, get away amid the confusion.

Though they have escaped Umbridge, they still have a problem—how to get to London. Ron's voice behind them agrees. Apparently he, Ginny, Luna, and Neville escaped the Inquisitorial Squad, thanks to Harry's Defensive Arts training and Ginny's excellent Bat Bogey Hex. They then followed Harry and Hermione into the Forest, bringing Harry's and Hermione's wands with them. Luna, matter-of-factly, says that they will just have to fly to London. When Harry says he is going to the Ministry to find Sirius, the others insist on going along. Harry prefers only Ron, feeling that Neville, Luna, and Ginny are the weakest D.A. members, and that even Hermione is unsuitable in a combat situation. Luna's insistence that they fly provokes an outburst from Ron, but Luna points to two thestrals. Harry says he and Ron will take those two, and the others can follow later, but Luna says more will be attracted by the blood on Harry and Hermione. Soon, six or seven more Thestrals appear, and Harry, exasperated, tells everyone to pick one and mount up.

[edit] Analysis

Of all the members of Dumbledore's Army, Luna, Neville, and Ginny are very nearly the last ones that Harry or Ron would have chosen to go with them to London, believing they are the least qualified. They are even reluctant to include Hermione and try to persuade her and the others to remain behind or to come later. But Harry can underestimate or misjudge his friends' abilities, often valuing the popular and seemingly more capable students over the ones who are loyal, determined, and dependable. It is Hermione, Ginny, Neville, and Luna who usually respond first to Harry's distress calls, and they display immense bravery by risking their own lives to help Harry face Voldemort, a fact Harry does not yet fully appreciate.

Although Hermione quickly devised a clever plan to save Harry from Umbridge's Cruciatus curse, she nearly gets them both captured as a result. The Centaurs' hatred of humans usually excludes children, or "foals" as they call them. Hermione counts on this when she leads Umbridge into the forest knowing the Centaurs will resent the intrusion and that Umbridge will probably further infuriate them. Umbridge arrogantly confronts the Centaurs, believing her Ministry-backed authority will intimidate any "sub-human" creature into stepping aside. Even though the Centaurs carry Umbridge off into the forest, Hermione's plan backfires because she underestimated their reaction, and mistakenly believed that if she explained their plight, the Centaurs would be sympathetic. The herd, still outraged over Firenze's "betrayal" to serve Dumbledore, only became more incensed that Hermione used trickery to involve them in human affairs. Hermione and Harry are no longer considered so "innocent", and one Centaur argues that Harry is nearing manhood. If not for Grawp's timely intervention, it is unlikely they would have survived the Centaurs' wrath unscathed.

We see here, also, an instance of Luna's matter-of-fact nature and her willingness to ignore heckling, coupled with a perhaps surprising intelligence, and an awareness of her environment quite out of line with her usual dreamy appearance. It is Luna who connects Hagrid's mention that the Thestrals are excellent fliers with the fact that they are attracted to raw meat and blood. Ignoring Ron's gibes about Crumple-Horned Snorkacks, she sticks to her guns, pointing out the arriving Thestrals to Harry and Neville, who she knows can see them.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why does Hermione take Harry and Umbridge into the Forbidden Forest and who do they meet?
2. What happens to Umbridge in the Forbidden Forest? Why?
3. Who wants to attack Harry and Hermione in the Forbidden Forest and why? What stops them?
4. What are attracted by the blood on Harry and Hermione's clothing?
5. How does Luna suggest getting to London? How do the others react this?
6. Ron, Ginny, Luna, Neville, and Hermione insist on going with Harry to the Ministry of Magic to help save Sirius. Why does Harry only want Ron to accompany him?

[edit] Further Study

[edit] Greater Picture

Up to this point, it has been Harry, Ron, and Hermione, the Trio, who have been the central characters in the series. Harry, with Dumbledore's assistance, has been moving towards his apparent destiny, that of facing and defeating Voldemort, and Ron and Hermione have been traveling alongside. Now, we have a new group of assistants, Neville, Luna, and Ginny. As mentioned, Harry does not want them along, possibly thinking them not as competent as himself, Ron, and Hermione. Circumstances will prove him wrong, however, not only in this book, but in the final two books of the series. When Harry calls up Dumbledore's Army in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince to defend the school in Dumbledore's absence, it will be only these three who respond; and Neville will be the core of the resistance to Voldemort's rule of Hogwarts, while both Ginny and Luna will have pivotal roles, in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

We can see the beginnings of civilization happening with Grawp, surprisingly. Grawp is looking for Hagrid, and recognizes Hermione. It seems that, despite Hagrid having only missed one visit, Grawp is already feeling his absence. Grawp's progress will happen off-camera for the rest of the series, but he will be civil enough at Dumbledore's funeral at the end of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

It is interesting to note the Centaurs' reaction to Grawp. Despite their vaunted logic and mental superiority, the Centaurs react to Grawp in a singularly emotional manner, bombarding him with arrows when he has not, in fact, directly threatened any of them. We will see later, when Hagrid is carrying the apparently lifeless Harry out of the Forest, that he is able to shame the Centaurs into entering the battle on humanity's side. This may lead us to recognize that the Centaurs are much more emotional than they are willing to admit to themselves. This is also an indication that, despite their belief in their mental superiority over humans, they share the human traits of prejudice and intolerance.

Chapter 34: The Department of Mysteries

[edit] Synopsis

Harry, Neville, and Luna quickly mount their Thestrals, but Hermione, Ron, and Ginny have difficulty finding them; Luna dismounts and helps them. Harry asks his Thestral to take them to the Visitor's Entrance of the Ministry of Magic, in London; the Thestrals promptly take off. Upon reaching the Ministry of Magic, Ron swears he will never fly on one again. The students cram into the phone box that is the Ministry's visitor entrance. Ron dials the Ministry's number and is asked their names and business; the phone dispenses ID badges, and they descend to the atrium. At the reception area, there is no Security Guard on duty. Harry is certain Sirius must be there. Harry and the others enter a lift (elevator) and descend to the lowest basement floor—the Department of Mysteries.

From his dreams, Harry recognizes the corridor and knows which door to enter. Within is a large circular chamber with twelve doors. Harry is unsure which one to go through, the more so as, as soon as a door closes behind them, the room's walls rotate. When the doors come to a standstill again, they open the first one; but the room does not match Harry's dream. Instead, it contains a large tank with floating brains. Retreating, Hermione marks the door with her wand so they know they have already looked there. The next room is a large stone amphitheater. On a raised dais at the center is an ancient stone archway, a tattered veil fluttering in the entrance. Harry investigates, and standing next to the veil, he has the strange sensation that someone is on the other side. Hermione, in particular, seems frightened, and calls Harry back to the circular room.

The next doorway refuses to open; Harry uses Sirius' knife that will "open any door", but the door remains shut and the knife's blade melts away. At the next door, Harry recognizes the sparkling, shimmering light from his dreams. Inside is a bell jar containing a beautiful hummingbird that hatches from an egg, flutters to the top, falls back down into the egg, then hatches again. Passing through this room, they reach the huge chamber containing the shelves loaded with glass orbs that Harry recognizes from his dream. Finding no trace of Sirius, Harry considers returning to Hogwarts when Ron spots an orb labeled "S.P.T. to A.P.W.B.D. Dark Lord and (?)Harry Potter". As Harry reaches for it, Hermione warns him it might be dangerous, but nothing happens when he grasps it. Although the chamber is cold, the orb feels warm in Harry's hand.

A voice from behind breaks the silence: "Very good, Potter. Now turn around, nice and slowly, and give that to me."

[edit] Analysis

Harry has become so consumed with rescuing his godfather that he rushed into an unknown situation without a plan, without fully considering the risks to himself and his friends, and without confirming that Sirius was actually in danger. He ignores Hermione's warning that his dream could be a false vision, and he instead relies solely on his own intuition that is fueled by intense emotions and a desire to protect Sirius. When under duress, Harry often becomes impervious to others' advice and acts according to emotions rather than logic, thinking linearly and single-mindedly, although his intentions are usually noble. His attempts to dissuade the others from accompanying him are futile, they refuse to remain behind, despite suspecting Harry is pursuing an unwise and potentially dangerous course. Unfortunately, they are right, and Harry's rash and predictable behavior has led him and the others directly into what may be a deadly trap.

Readers are probably able to guess that the initials S.P.T. and A.P.W.B.D. that are on the orb stand for Sybill Patricia Trelawney and Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore.

It is interesting to note, although it plays no part in the storyline, the beautiful hummingbird that continually hatches from the egg and returns to it. Clearly, this is similar to a Phoenix, the mythical bird that continually dies by bursting into flames, then is resurrected from its own ashes. In this context, however, it is meant to be an indicator of one of the great Mysteries, the mystery of Time.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why was Ron worried about flying on the Thestrals?
2. Why was the Department of Mysteries so easily accessible to Harry and the others?

[edit] Further Study

1. What are the 'Orbs'?
2. Was Hermione right to be worried about Harry touching an Orb, even with one that had his name on it? What might have happened?
3. Why does Harry experience a strange sensation standing next to the veiled archway? What might have happened if Harry had stepped through it?
4. Why do Ron, Hermione, and the others insist on going with Harry, even though they believe it might be a trap? What does this say about their characters?

[edit] Greater Picture

While it is never entirely made certain, Luna's reaction to the veil in the stone amphitheater, and Harry's, leads us to believe that what Harry may be hearing are the voices of those who have died. It would appear that this room is meant to be the physical embodiment of a Muggle figure of speech: when we say that someone has "passed through the Veil," we mean that that person has died. This room, and its physical Veil, would then be a figure of speech made real. This interpretation will be reinforced later by Sirius' passing physically through the Veil, and by Luna's telling Harry that what he heard at the veil were the voices of those who had gone before, waiting there for Harry to join them.

This being the Department of Mysteries, one might reasonably expect that eleven of the twelve doors off the circular room would lead to an area devoted to the study of a Mystery, the twelfth one being the way back to the Atrium. This does seem to be the case; in turn we see the mysteries of Thought or Consciousness, Death, and (skipping the locked door) Time. It makes sense that Prophecies would be associated with the mystery of Time, as they do somewhat violate our understanding of Time as being unidirectional. Later, in another room, is a giant orrery, obviously devoted to the mystery of the Physical Universe; Dumbledore will tell Harry about a department whose door is always locked because of the great power of the mystery therein, namely the mystery of Love. It also makes sense for the various Mysteries to be interconnected. Later, we will see that, leaving the amphitheater, Harry will run through the brain room; it is obvious, in retrospect, that the mystery of Consciousness and the mystery of Death are linked. This, incidentally, is an illustration of the Doctrine of Signatures, the belief that function follows appearance: e.g. a plant that grows in the shape of a heart must have effects, assumed beneficial, on people's hearts. The Doctrine of Signatures was the core of a large part of medieval "magic"; we do not know if it plays any part in the Wizarding world, though it likely did in ancient times. Whether or not the Doctrine of Signatures was a consideration in the design of the Department of Mysteries, it is likely that the wizards studying the Mysteries would feel that it would be sensible to have the connections between the Mysteries echoed in the connections between the rooms devoted to them.

Chapter 35: Beyond the Veil

[edit] Synopsis

Lucius Malfoy and eleven other Death Eaters, including the sadistic Bellatrix Lestrange, emerge from the shadows. Malfoy again demands that Harry hand over the orb. Harry refuses, demanding to know where Sirius is, but the answers merely hint that Harry's visions were just a dream. Threatening to destroy the orb, Harry stalls by asking questions about it. When Bellatrix reviles Harry for being half-blood, Harry reminds her that her precious Voldemort is half-blood also – his father is a Muggle. Before he can finish the word, though, Bellatrix attempts to Stun him; Malfoy deflects the spell to the side, which knocks a few orbs off the shelves, giving Harry an idea. Malfoy explains that the sphere contains a prophecy about the Dark Lord and Harry. They needed Harry to retrieve it because only those whom a prophecy concerns can safely pick up the orb, any others go insane. And Voldemort could not risk being seen at the Ministry, and so instead he lured Harry there to retrieve it for him.

On Harry's signal, the D.A. members blast the rows of spheres with their wands. Harry, along with the others, runs from the Chamber clutching the orb, chased by the Death Eaters. He re-enters the bell jar room, where Hermione seals the door behind them; but only Neville is still with them, Ron, Ginny, and Luna have become separated. Two Death Eaters enter the hall; Hermione Stuns one, and Neville, while disarming the other, disarms Harry as well. Attempting to Stun the Death Eater, he hits a rack full of time-turners. Hermione Stuns the remaining Death Eater.

As they head for the circular room, two more Death Eaters appear; Harry, Hermione and Neville veer into a side office. Before they can seal the door, the Death Eaters burst in and trip the three students. Hermione, regaining her wand, silences the Death Eater who is calling his accomplices, and Harry Petrifies another. The silenced attacker, Dolohov, curses Hermione with a purple flame; she falls. He kicks Neville, breaking his wand and his nose, before wordlessly demanding that Harry give him the prophecy. A partially-incapacitated Death Eater distracts him, and Harry Petrifies him as well. Neville confirms that Hermione is alive, and they make their way to the circular room, where they find Luna, Ginny, whose ankle is injured, and Ron, who was hit by a spell apparently having an effect like drunkenness. As they search for an exit, several Death Eaters enter, including Bellatrix, and start attacking. Harry, Neville, and Luna quickly exit, finding themselves again in the Brain Room; they try sealing the doors, Neville using Hermione's wand, but five Death Eaters burst in, throwing Luna through the air. She falls and is motionless. Ron, still under the drunkenness spell's effects, summons a brain, and it wraps its tentacles around him. Ginny is Stunned. Neville apparently cannot produce a Stun spell with his nose broken, so Harry runs for the door that the Death Eaters came through, tumbling down stone steps and landing near the Veiled Arch.

Surrounded by Death Eaters, Harry backs onto the dais where the veil ripples in the ancient archway. Neville bursts in but is quickly immobilized. Bellatrix, recalling torturing Neville's parents, tortures Neville similarly, to force Harry to surrender the prophecy. Harry is about to relinquish it when Sirius, Tonks, Shacklebolt, Lupin, and Moody arrive. Macnair grabs Harry around the neck and demands the prophecy; Neville pokes his eye with Hermione's wand, and he releases Harry. Harry Stuns Macnair, but Neville is jinxed by Dolohov, who then makes two attempts at Harry before Sirius distracts him. Harry Petrifies him, and hands off the prophecy orb to Neville to free his hands. As teh jinx has left Neville unable to walk, Harry grabs Neville's robe to pull him up the steps; the robe rips, and the orb falls from Neville's pocket and is smashed. The wispy vapors inside turn into a ghost-like figure speaking the prophecy, which vanishes unheard amid the battle sounds. Dumbledore enters from the Brain Room, and quickly apprehends all the combatants except two: Sirius is dueling Bellatrix. As Sirius taunts her that she could fight better, Bellatrix blasts a stunning spell squarely at his chest. His rigid body falls through the veiled arch. Harry rushes after him, but Lupin restrains him before he reaches the portal, telling him it is too late. Sirius is gone.

[edit] Analysis

This chapter is largely action, preparing for and then executing the battle. We do learn a number of things here, as Harry stalls the Death Eaters, but most of this chapter is immediate; this is the climax of this book, the battle we have been building up to throughout this book.

One thing that is mentioned here is that only the persons who are concerned in a prophecy can safely pick it up. (Presumably, that would be the people mentioned on the label: in this case Harry, Voldemort, Dumbledore, and Trelawney.) This gives us an explanation for Bode's illness. We heard earlier that Bode had been put under the Imperius curse by Malfoy, but that he had resisted attempts to make him retrieve something; it is now clear that he had been ordered to pick up this Prophecy, and had known it would drive him insane when he did so. It was as he was recovering his sanity that the Death Eaters moved to murder him in the hospital.

Although Harry and the others were outnumbered and outmatched by Voldemort's Death Eaters, all fought ably, mostly thanks to Harry's superb defensive training. It is conceivable that had a few more D.A. members been present, the Death Eaters could have been defeated without help from the Order of the Phoenix. Even though Harry considers them the weakest members, Neville, Ginny, and Luna perform admirably while under attack. And though they may not yet be the most technically proficient D.A. students, they are arguably the bravest, willingly risking their own lives to help Harry, and fight Voldemort and his Death Eaters. Ginny and Neville prove they are true Gryffindors, while Luna could easily have fit into that House, as well as Ravenclaw. Harry will never forget what they have done for him.

When Harry contacted Grimmauld Place, Kreacher told Harry that Sirius had been taken to the Ministry of Magic. We can now guess that Kreacher, who remains loyal to the Black family, and, by extension, Voldemort, lied to Harry; Sirius was safely at Grimmauld Place with Lupin, unaware Harry was attempting to reach them.

Malfoy names the twelve Death Eaters involved in this battle shortly after Harry, Hermione, and Neville re-enter the bell jar room. They are: Lucius Malfoy, Bellatrix Lestrange, Nott, Rodolphus, Crabbe, Rabastan, Jugson, Dolohov, Macnair, Avery, Rookwood, and Mulciber. Of the two that initially attack Harry, Hermione, and Neville, one is Stunned, and the other falls into the bell jar and stumbles through the rest of the battle with a baby's head. The second pair that attack Harry are Dolohov and Jugson, and they both get Petrified. Nott is injured by falling shelves and may not play a further part in the battle. Lucius counts ten Death Eaters standing against Harry alone in the amphitheatre, so we can assume that the Stunned and Petrified Death Eaters have all been resuscitated at that point.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Who can safely pick up a Prophecy Orb? What happens to those who are unable to?
2. How was Bellatrix able to kill Sirius?
3. Why does Lupin restrain Harry from going after Sirius?
4. Which D.A. members were left standing at the end of the battle?

[edit] Further Study

1. Who alerted the Order of the Phoenix that the students were in trouble?
2. What is the veiled archway? Why can only Harry and Luna hear the voices behind the veil?
3. Based on what is learned in this chapter, what might have happened if Harry had gone through the veiled archway? Could he have returned?

[edit] Greater Picture

We will find out that Order of the Phoenix reinforcements arrived at the Ministry of Magic because Snape alerted them, when Harry and the other students did not return from the Forbidden Forest. However, Harry later accuses Snape of deliberately waiting too long to sound the alarm, resulting in Sirius' death.

Neville, Luna, and Ginny will again show their bravery in the next book, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, being the only members of Dumbledore's Army to answer Harry's distress call before the battle inside Hogwarts.

Harry will later bemoan the fact that the Prophecy has been destroyed. Dumbledore will tell him that what was destroyed was not the prophecy itself, but rather a memory of it, and that the person who witnessed the prophecy had retained that memory. Apparently, prophecies are stored by a process extremely similar to the process by which thoughts are stored in a Pensieve, as Dumbledore then shows Harry the memory of that prophecy, using his Pensieve.

Neville's accidental destruction of the Time Turners will prove to be a minor but in some ways essential plot point. Time-Turners are an almost insanely useful device to have in a wizard duel, as a wizard could, if he chose, go back an hour multiple times using a Time Turner to multiply himself. Harry would stand precious little chance facing five Voldemorts. While there are laws preventing their use in such manner, we see that Voldemort does not seem to pay too much attention to laws, and if he were able to retain a Time Turner, things would go very badly for the Order of the Phoenix. The only mention of this destruction, however, is in the opening chapters of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, where Hagrid rationalizes the Trio's decision to not take his Care of Magical Creatures course as being due to lack of time, which could not be remedied without the destroyed Time-Turners.

Chapter 36: The Only One He Ever Feared

[edit] Synopsis

A stunned Harry is unable to believe that Sirius is dead. Ignoring the non-stop wand flashes, he struggles with Lupin, attempting to reach the archway and save Sirius. Meanwhile Dumbledore has rounded up most of the Death Eaters, but on the dais' far side, Kingsley duels Bellatrix until she jinxes him. Dodging Dumbledore's spell, she exits the amphitheatre. Enraged, Harry chases her through the Brain Room, ducking her curses. Bellatrix runs into the hallway with the lifts (elevator). Harry follows, but the door slams behind her and the room's walls are already spinning. As they slow, Harry asks, "Where's the way out?" A door behind Harry pops open, revealing the hallway. Hearing a lift clattering upwards, Harry presses a call button for another lift.

Harry runs into the Atrium, vowing to kill Bellatrix, who fires another spell at Harry, then laments the prophecy being lost. Voldemort suddenly appears, apparently in response to this discovery, angry that his Death Eaters have failed him again. He fires a killing curse at Harry, but the now-headless magician from the Statue of Magical Brethren leaps and blocks the spell. Dumbledore has arrived in the atrium, and he manipulates the magician to protect Harry and keep him out of the way, while the witch statue pins Bellatrix to the floor and the House-elf and Goblin figures guard the fireplaces lining the Atrium walls. Dumbledore and Voldemort fiercely duel; Harry can only watch. Voldemort hurls a killing curse directly at Dumbledore, but Fawkes flies between them, swallowing the curse and falling dead. Voldemort seemingly vanishes, but he enters Harry's mind and demands that Dumbledore kill him by killing Harry. Harry, hearing his own voice, is filled with thoughts of Sirius: if Dumbledore kills him, he will be able to see Sirius again. Voldemort suddenly releases Harry, who collapses.

Cornelius Fudge, other Ministry officials, and Aurors begin arriving from the fireplaces; several, including Fudge, see Voldemort as he physically reappears in the Atrium, grabs Bellatrix, and disappears. Dumbledore tells a stunned Fudge what has happened and that Death Eaters are under guard in the Death Chamber. Fudge seems ready to arrest him, but Dumbledore points out that Fudge saw Voldemort, and should now realize that he has been chasing the wrong man. Fudge sends Dawlish and Williamson to the Department of Mysteries. Dumbledore demands that Umbridge be removed from Hogwarts and the Aurors stop chasing Hagrid. He says he will explain everything, but he first gives Harry a Portkey, sending him back to Hogwarts.

[edit] Analysis

Voldemort possesses Harry's mind, but overcome by Harry's memories and feelings for his friends, Sirius, and his parents, the Dark Lord quickly exits. As Dumbledore will shortly explain, the power Harry possesses that Voldemort can not is love, which among other things makes Harry's mind an extremely uncomfortable place for Voldemort to be; he is unlikely to reenter it anytime soon, if at all.

Though Harry loses his godfather and failed to kill or capture Bellatrix Lestrange, the battle at the Ministry of Magic yields some benefit as Voldemort's presense is exposed and many Death Eaters are captured. Now the Wizarding World will know that Harry was telling the truth, and the Ministry will be forced to cease their campaign to discredit Harry and Dumbledore. It is expected that the Ministry will now take action against Voldemort and his followers. Additionally, the much-despised Umbridge will be removed from Hogwarts, and Dumbledore and Hagrid can return to their posts.

Fawkes is killed when he intercepts Voldemort's Avada Kedavra curse, but Dumbledore's loyal Phoenix will be reborn from its own ashes.

[edit] Questions

1. What happens when Voldemort hurls a killing curse at Dumbledore?
2. Who arrives just before Voldemort disapparates? What is the reaction?
3. What does Voldemort do just before disapparating?
4. Who, besides Voldemort, escapes?

[edit] Greater Picture

In the next book, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Dumbledore asks Harry if his scar has been hurting. Harry replies, with some surprise, it has not hurt all year, though he would have expected it to. Dumbledore explains that when Voldemort possessed Harry's mind, he found it so uncomfortable a place to be that he likely has been shielding his own mind from Harry's since then. In the series' final two books, Voldemort never possesses Harry again, though as the final book progresses, Harry gains more and more ability to see what is happening inside Voldemort's mind.

Chapter 37: The Lost Prophecy

[edit] Synopsis

The Portkey delivers Harry to Dumbledore's office, which has been repaired after Dumbledore's spectacular escape. Harry is deeply stunned and angry over Sirius' death and blames himself for falling for Voldemort's deception. Dumbledore soon arrives, to cheers from the portraits in his office, and places Fawkes tenderly on the ashes under his perch. He tells Harry the other students are being tended to by Madam Pomfrey. Tonks was also injured, but she has been taken to St. Mungo's hospital and will recover.

Harry rages at Dumbledore, but when Dumbledore claims responsibility for Sirius' death, Harry is subdued. Dumbledore admits that if he had been more open, Harry would have realized that Voldemort was luring Harry into a trap at the Department of Mysteries. Dumbledore explains to a still seething Harry that the events that gave him his scar, also left a mental connection between Harry and Voldemort. Voldemort discovered this gateway after Arthur Weasley was attacked, and he intruded into Harry's thoughts. Dumbledore says that is why he had insisted Harry study Occlumency and why he remained aloof from Harry all year, fearing that Voldemort would try harder to break into Harry's mind if he suspected there was more than a teacher to student relationship between them, or that Voldemort would gain valuable information through him. Harry tells him that he tried to contact Sirius to see if he was safe; Dumbledore says Kreacher lied, that Sirius was actually tending to Buckbeak, tending an injury inflicted by Kreacher. After Harry warned Snape while in Umbridge's office, Snape checked to see that Sirius was safe; but when Harry did not return from the Forbidden Forest, he alerted the Order, who then went to the Ministry. Snape wanted Sirius to remain at Grimmauld, but Sirius ordered Kreacher to tell Dumbledore what had happened. And Dumbledore learned from Kreacher about the lie that had been told to Harry, and that Kreacher's instructions had originated with the last member of the Black family that Kreacher respected: Narcissa Malfoy. Kreacher could not betray the Order totally, but he could reveal to Narcissa that the one thing that would always bring Harry was a threat to Sirius Black.

Harry is angry that Snape disbelieved him when he told Snape what was happening; Dumbledore says that Snape had to behave that way in Umbridge's presence. Harry argues that Snape had been using Occlumency to soften him up for Voldemort, saying his scar always hurt worse after a lesson. Dumbledore reiterates his complete faith in Snape's loyalty. He regrets not teaching Harry himself, but he feared it could give Voldemort access to his own thoughts. Sadly, he underestimated Snape's deep, lingering resentments towards Harry's father.

Dumbledore explains why the infant Harry was placed with the Dursleys rather than with a wizarding family, although many offered to adopt the orphaned boy. When Lily Potter was killed defending her son, her sacrifice created a magical shield that protected Harry from Voldemort. However, the protection only remains in effect as long as Harry lives in his mother's blood relatives' home—that relative is Aunt Petunia. Dumbledore was convinced that Voldemort would return, and his priority was to keep Harry alive. The Howler Petunia received was a stern reminder from Dumbledore of her obligation to protect Harry.

Dumbledore tells Harry that the reason Voldemort had tried to kill him was because of a prophecy that had been made shortly before Harry's birth. While Voldemort knew of the prophecy, and some of the prophecy itself, he did not know the whole, and had been trying to retrieve it to find out what it said.

Harry tells Dumbledore that the prophecy was destroyed, but Dumbledore says only a copy of the original was lost. He knows the contents because it was to him that the prophecy was first revealed. Sixteen years ago, Dumbledore interviewed Sibyll Trelawney for the Divination position, meeting her at a pub in Hogsmeade. Although she was descended from a gifted Seer, she herself seemed minimally talented. Saying she was not acceptable for the post, Dumbledore was about to leave.

Dumbledore stops speaking, and, producing the Pensieve, extracts a memory from his mind and places it therein. Sibyll Trelawney's veiled image rises, and in the harsh voice Harry heard once before, says, "The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies... and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives... the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies..."

Dumbledore says there were two boys who fit the prophecy: Harry and Neville Longbottom, born days apart. Both Harry's and Neville's parents, who were Order of the Phoenix members, defied Voldemort three times. Dumbledore believes Voldemort attacked Harry because he is a half-blood like himself, and therefore possibly more dangerous; Neville is a pureblood. By deliberately choosing Harry, Voldemort "marked" him as his equal, leaving behind the scar on Harry's forehead. Dumbledore goes on to say that Voldemort had only heard the first half of the prophecy. The second part predicted that the marked child would have powers that the Dark Lord could never know, and that one must die at the hand of the other, for both cannot live while the other survives. Dumbledore tells Harry that the power he possesses and Voldemort does not is love. It was love that protected Harry from Voldemort's killing curse while ripping the Dark Lord's soul from his body. He also confirms that the prophecy means that either Voldemort or Harry must kill the other.

Finally, as Harry is leaving the office, Dumbledore explains why he had not chosen Harry to be a Prefect: "I must confess . . . that I rather thought . . . you had enough responsibility to be going on with."

[edit] Analysis

Harry is roiling in turmoil—simultaneously experiencing rage, grief, and guilt. Although Dumbledore explains why he withheld vital information and reveals the entire prophecy, it does little to console Harry. He now understands his ties to the Dursleys, and although his relationship with Petunia will never change, he now realizes that it is she, through their blood connection, who stands between him and Voldemort. And although Petunia has no love for her nephew, she continues to fulfill her obligation to protect him; Harry knows he must continue to endure living in her home until he comes of age. And now Harry has a new burden to bear: either he or Voldemort must die.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why didn't Dumbledore teach Harry Occlumency himself?
2. Why does Harry have to return to the Dursleys each summer?
3. Why did Voldemort "mark" Harry as his equal rather than Neville Longbottom?
4. How is love used as a powerful force against Voldemort, and why is the Dark Lord incapable of possessing it?

[edit] Extra Study

1. The prophecy never mentioned Harry's name. Two boys fit Trelawney's description, and either could have been marked by Voldemort: Harry or Neville Longbottom. Therefore, is it possible that Neville, who might have been chosen by Voldemort, could also have retrieved the orb from the Department of Mysteries? Explain why he could or could not.
2. How might Harry and Neville's relationship change now that Harry knows that Neville could have been "The Chosen One."
3. What might have been the result if Dumbledore had instructed Harry in Occlumency, rather than Snape teaching him?
4. Why does Aunt Petunia continue to protect Harry, even though she does not love him?

[edit] Greater Picture

It is interesting that, when Harry is yelling at Dumbledore, he says that Dumbledore cannot possibly know the pain that he is suffering. Harry feels as though the death of Sirius is his fault, as he had let Voldemort into his mind, and fallen for the ruse that lured him into the Department of Mysteries. In fact, Dumbledore does know how Harry feels, more so than many others would. As discussed in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Dumbledore's sister Ariana was killed during a three-way duel between Dumbledore, his brother Aberforth, and Grindelwald. While he does not know whose spell actually killed her, there is no doubt in Dumbledore's mind that he is responsible for the death of his sister. Indications are that he carries this regret and remorse with him for the rest of his life, and Harry muses that what Dumbledore desires the most and sees in the Mirror of Erised is his family, including his sister and mother, whole and together again. This pain is also seen at the end of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, when Dumbledore drinks the potion in the Cave, though we do not learn the reasons behind it it until Aberforth's explanation in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Dumbledore says Voldemort wanted the orb because he never heard the entire prophecy; while the Hog's Head, where the prophecy was made, is known for its eavesdropping population, Voldemort's informant apparently only heard the prophecy's first half. In a later book, Harry learns that when Trelawney returned from her prophecy-induced trance, Severus Snape was present. Harry leaps to the conclusion that Snape was Voldemort's informant. Dumbledore, confronted by Harry, does not dispute this, and in fact it is confirmed much later. However, if he was present at the end of the prophecy, why does Dumbledore say that he had only heard the first part? If we look at the prophecy itself, and the earlier one, we will see that Trelawney's prophecies seem to repeat the first part at the conclusion; so someone hearing the end of the prophecy would hear a repetition of the prophecy's beginning.

Chapter 37: The Lost Prophecy

[edit] Synopsis

The Portkey delivers Harry to Dumbledore's office, which has been repaired after Dumbledore's spectacular escape. Harry is deeply stunned and angry over Sirius' death and blames himself for falling for Voldemort's deception. Dumbledore soon arrives, to cheers from the portraits in his office, and places Fawkes tenderly on the ashes under his perch. He tells Harry the other students are being tended to by Madam Pomfrey. Tonks was also injured, but she has been taken to St. Mungo's hospital and will recover.

Harry rages at Dumbledore, but when Dumbledore claims responsibility for Sirius' death, Harry is subdued. Dumbledore admits that if he had been more open, Harry would have realized that Voldemort was luring Harry into a trap at the Department of Mysteries. Dumbledore explains to a still seething Harry that the events that gave him his scar, also left a mental connection between Harry and Voldemort. Voldemort discovered this gateway after Arthur Weasley was attacked, and he intruded into Harry's thoughts. Dumbledore says that is why he had insisted Harry study Occlumency and why he remained aloof from Harry all year, fearing that Voldemort would try harder to break into Harry's mind if he suspected there was more than a teacher to student relationship between them, or that Voldemort would gain valuable information through him. Harry tells him that he tried to contact Sirius to see if he was safe; Dumbledore says Kreacher lied, that Sirius was actually tending to Buckbeak, tending an injury inflicted by Kreacher. After Harry warned Snape while in Umbridge's office, Snape checked to see that Sirius was safe; but when Harry did not return from the Forbidden Forest, he alerted the Order, who then went to the Ministry. Snape wanted Sirius to remain at Grimmauld, but Sirius ordered Kreacher to tell Dumbledore what had happened. And Dumbledore learned from Kreacher about the lie that had been told to Harry, and that Kreacher's instructions had originated with the last member of the Black family that Kreacher respected: Narcissa Malfoy. Kreacher could not betray the Order totally, but he could reveal to Narcissa that the one thing that would always bring Harry was a threat to Sirius Black.

Harry is angry that Snape disbelieved him when he told Snape what was happening; Dumbledore says that Snape had to behave that way in Umbridge's presence. Harry argues that Snape had been using Occlumency to soften him up for Voldemort, saying his scar always hurt worse after a lesson. Dumbledore reiterates his complete faith in Snape's loyalty. He regrets not teaching Harry himself, but he feared it could give Voldemort access to his own thoughts. Sadly, he underestimated Snape's deep, lingering resentments towards Harry's father.

Dumbledore explains why the infant Harry was placed with the Dursleys rather than with a wizarding family, although many offered to adopt the orphaned boy. When Lily Potter was killed defending her son, her sacrifice created a magical shield that protected Harry from Voldemort. However, the protection only remains in effect as long as Harry lives in his mother's blood relatives' home—that relative is Aunt Petunia. Dumbledore was convinced that Voldemort would return, and his priority was to keep Harry alive. The Howler Petunia received was a stern reminder from Dumbledore of her obligation to protect Harry.

Dumbledore tells Harry that the reason Voldemort had tried to kill him was because of a prophecy that had been made shortly before Harry's birth. While Voldemort knew of the prophecy, and some of the prophecy itself, he did not know the whole, and had been trying to retrieve it to find out what it said.

Harry tells Dumbledore that the prophecy was destroyed, but Dumbledore says only a copy of the original was lost. He knows the contents because it was to him that the prophecy was first revealed. Sixteen years ago, Dumbledore interviewed Sibyll Trelawney for the Divination position, meeting her at a pub in Hogsmeade. Although she was descended from a gifted Seer, she herself seemed minimally talented. Saying she was not acceptable for the post, Dumbledore was about to leave.

Dumbledore stops speaking, and, producing the Pensieve, extracts a memory from his mind and places it therein. Sibyll Trelawney's veiled image rises, and in the harsh voice Harry heard once before, says, "The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies... and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives... the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies..."

Dumbledore says there were two boys who fit the prophecy: Harry and Neville Longbottom, born days apart. Both Harry's and Neville's parents, who were Order of the Phoenix members, defied Voldemort three times. Dumbledore believes Voldemort attacked Harry because he is a half-blood like himself, and therefore possibly more dangerous; Neville is a pureblood. By deliberately choosing Harry, Voldemort "marked" him as his equal, leaving behind the scar on Harry's forehead. Dumbledore goes on to say that Voldemort had only heard the first half of the prophecy. The second part predicted that the marked child would have powers that the Dark Lord could never know, and that one must die at the hand of the other, for both cannot live while the other survives. Dumbledore tells Harry that the power he possesses and Voldemort does not is love. It was love that protected Harry from Voldemort's killing curse while ripping the Dark Lord's soul from his body. He also confirms that the prophecy means that either Voldemort or Harry must kill the other.

Finally, as Harry is leaving the office, Dumbledore explains why he had not chosen Harry to be a Prefect: "I must confess . . . that I rather thought . . . you had enough responsibility to be going on with."

[edit] Analysis

Harry is roiling in turmoil—simultaneously experiencing rage, grief, and guilt. Although Dumbledore explains why he withheld vital information and reveals the entire prophecy, it does little to console Harry. He now understands his ties to the Dursleys, and although his relationship with Petunia will never change, he now realizes that it is she, through their blood connection, who stands between him and Voldemort. And although Petunia has no love for her nephew, she continues to fulfill her obligation to protect him; Harry knows he must continue to endure living in her home until he comes of age. And now Harry has a new burden to bear: either he or Voldemort must die.

[edit] Questions

[edit] Review

1. Why didn't Dumbledore teach Harry Occlumency himself?
2. Why does Harry have to return to the Dursleys each summer?
3. Why did Voldemort "mark" Harry as his equal rather than Neville Longbottom?
4. How is love used as a powerful force against Voldemort, and why is the Dark Lord incapable of possessing it?

[edit] Extra Study

1. The prophecy never mentioned Harry's name. Two boys fit Trelawney's description, and either could have been marked by Voldemort: Harry or Neville Longbottom. Therefore, is it possible that Neville, who might have been chosen by Voldemort, could also have retrieved the orb from the Department of Mysteries? Explain why he could or could not.
2. How might Harry and Neville's relationship change now that Harry knows that Neville could have been "The Chosen One."
3. What might have been the result if Dumbledore had instructed Harry in Occlumency, rather than Snape teaching him?
4. Why does Aunt Petunia continue to protect Harry, even though she does not love him?

[edit] Greater Picture

It is interesting that, when Harry is yelling at Dumbledore, he says that Dumbledore cannot possibly know the pain that he is suffering. Harry feels as though the death of Sirius is his fault, as he had let Voldemort into his mind, and fallen for the ruse that lured him into the Department of Mysteries. In fact, Dumbledore does know how Harry feels, more so than many others would. As discussed in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Dumbledore's sister Ariana was killed during a three-way duel between Dumbledore, his brother Aberforth, and Grindelwald. While he does not know whose spell actually killed her, there is no doubt in Dumbledore's mind that he is responsible for the death of his sister. Indications are that he carries this regret and remorse with him for the rest of his life, and Harry muses that what Dumbledore desires the most and sees in the Mirror of Erised is his family, including his sister and mother, whole and together again. This pain is also seen at the end of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, when Dumbledore drinks the potion in the Cave, though we do not learn the reasons behind it it until Aberforth's explanation in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Dumbledore says Voldemort wanted the orb because he never heard the entire prophecy; while the Hog's Head, where the prophecy was made, is known for its eavesdropping population, Voldemort's informant apparently only heard the prophecy's first half. In a later book, Harry learns that when Trelawney returned from her prophecy-induced trance, Severus Snape was present. Harry leaps to the conclusion that Snape was Voldemort's informant. Dumbledore, confronted by Harry, does not dispute this, and in fact it is confirmed much later. However, if he was present at the end of the prophecy, why does Dumbledore say that he had only heard the first part? If we look at the prophecy itself, and the earlier one, we will see that Trelawney's prophecies seem to repeat the first part at the conclusion; so someone hearing the end of the prophecy would hear a repetition of the prophecy's beginning.