The Coming Deaths in HP5, 6, and 7

[Peter Shea]

No: HPFGUIDX 50058


In that BBC interview that was cited as possible evidence of an H/H ship, Rowling made it clear that more death is to follow, including one that will be "horrible" to write.

Though it isn't pleasant to dwell upon death, I can't help but speculate. Here are my thoughts upon who may or may not die.

Harry - Virtually impossible. Can't have a series without Potter. He will continue to suffer, but no real physical harm ill come to him. Even in book seven, it is unlikely to Harry die since it would end the series on a serious downer note, which I don't think Rowling would do. 

Hermione - Hermione provides a necessary gender balance in the stories. Without her, the narrative would seem uneven. This doesn't mean that she couldn't die but as the main female character, she has a variation of the protection which is extended to Harry by the gods of fiction. 

Ron - Interesting possibility. I shudder at the prospect, but it is within the bounds of probability. Ron's great strength is his loyalty (when it isn't dampened by resentment of Harry's status). This would be a death that would be indeed "horrible" to write. And it would emphasize the theme of loss which has been in the series since the beginning.

Hagrid - Very possible. Hagrid fulfills the function of the "Holy fool" someone who can be simple but loving in a way that eludes more sophisticated people. Such characters often function as "Christ surrogates" in fiction, being sacrificed to bring others to awareness and redemption.

Dumbledore - Again, very possible. Again another fiction motif is the death/sacrifice of the patriarch figure in order to bring about the maturation of the sons.

The Weasley Family - With the return of Voldemort, the Wizard world will be in a state of war. Since everyone will be called on the participate in some way, the size of the Weasley family (and their closeness to Harry) make it probable that someone in their ranks will fall.

Hogwarts Faculty - I don't see anything to suggest whether McGonagall lives or dies. At the end of GoF there is an implication that Snape will undertake a dangerous assignment. But he serves as a useful counterweight in the story to the more supportive faculty. Like Hermione, it would risk an imbalance liminating him.

Students - Likely. Cedric Diggory's fate may be interpreted as a foreshadowing of the sacrifices that Hogwarts will make before Voldemort is put down for good. As for Draco Malfoy, he is too useful as evil counterpart to Harry, providing a useful contrast. Besides, only the good die young. 

The Old Crowd - Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Arabella Figg. Quite possible.


Peter the Couch Elf


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