"die, ron, die"

[vmonte]

No: HPFGUIDX 87934

vmonte replies to Mr. Jones terrific post:  

I feel the same way about Ron Weasely. Ron has been the most 
difficult for me to figure out. Every one of the characters in the 
book has a strength particular to themselves. For a long time I saw 
Ron as just being the sidekick to Hermione and Harry. Then I realized 
that Rowling lets us know right away (in book 1) what Ron's strengths 
are. He is a great strategist!!! THE CHESS GAME!!! (In fact, 
Dumbledore is so impressed with Ron's game at the end of the 1st book 
that he awards points to Gryffindor house!). I believe that the game 
is symbolic for the war that is to come (like you and other fans have 
mentioned).

The Quidditch positions may also be symbolic. If Ron becomes team 
captain, then he will lead an army of children (he will be their 
strategist). Also, Ron's position is Keeper, so he will act as a 
goalie to block shots (or the shot that is heading for Harry). Ron 
may sacrifice himself and take a fatal hit for Harry. 

 Harry's the "Seeker" so he will be busy chasing one thing Voldemort 
or the "golden snitch"--perhaps symbolic for an OOTP traitor. It's 
interesting that the "golden snitch" has wings...

George and Fred will be the Beaters. They will protect and accompany  
the "Chasers" on the battle field. Instead of launching "Bludgers" to 
attack their opponents they will launch their own very large arsenal 
of homemade weapons.

Ginny Weasley will be one of the Chasers (although she was also a 
Seeker while Harry was banned--so she may serve two roles during the 
war). 
  
This could go on and on....
Forgive my grammar, I'm a very tired mom...

In the end the children will be the heroes (as usual), not the 
adults! Ron will gain more confidence as the books progress. 

"vmonte"