[HPforGrownups] Question about Death Eaters

[Sushi]

No: HPFGUIDX 52490

         Stacie wrote:

>So, do we know how the Death Eaters got their name, or why they are called
>thus? I know that they are Lord Voldemort's supporters, but what is their
>name in reference?  Is there any other historical or literary reference?  I
>imagine this has already been discussed, so could someone please point me in
>the  right direction?


         The only thing that's been stated in canon is that it's what 
Voldemort's supporters called themselves.  I assume the name spread since 
everyone over the age of 17 seems to know it.  There isn't any conclusive 
proof, but there are a few theories as to how they came upon the name.

         "Voldemort" means, in French, "flight of death".  Whether this is 
a reference to his alleged immortality (death takes flight) or to his 
destructive capabilities is unknown.  It could be both.  His followers, who 
presumably seek the same immortality, would strive to overcome (or consume) 
death.  Hence, Death Eaters.  It's a name that struck me as a bit silly the 
first time I heard it, and became more and more sinister as I thought about it.

         Then there's my personal theory that they came up with the name 
after a long night of shots and flipping Sickles, and it had a close runner 
up of The Voldettes. ;)  Or maybe I've just eaten too much sugar.  This is 
a mystery to which we may never find the answer.

Sushi, who can't get the word "thanatophage" out of her head


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