Literature
Dumbledores Written Warning: Protecting Draco from the Dark Side
Dumbledore's Written Warning: Protecting Draco from the Dark Side
Overview of the Situation
In the context of the Harry Potter series, Dumbledore suggests that if Draco Malfoy were to oppose Voldemort and align himself with Harry and the Order of the Phoenix, he would be protected from the dangers of the dark side. This reflection highlights Dumbledore's deep understanding of Draco's struggles and the pressure he faces from his family and Voldemort. It also underscores a recurring theme in the series about the importance of choice and the possibility of redemption.
Implications of the Fidelius Charm
Dumbledore's statement also implies the use of the Fidelius Charm, which could hide Draco from Voldemort. However, such a statement would only have a limited impact given the circumstances at the time. When discussing his intentions with Draco, Dumbledore might have said:
“He probably meant with a Fidelius Charm,” but if I’d been Draco, I would have sneered and asked, “Like you did the Potters?”
Even if the Fidelius Charm had been used, the outcome would be uncertain as various factors made this option insufficient.
Dumbledore's Knowledge and Intention
Dumbledore's knowledge at that moment included:
Draco had disarmed him, thwarting his plans with the Elder Wand. Snape was ready to kill him within an hour, as requested by Draco. Harry was listening, and likely disapproving of both Draco and Snape. Severus had to act in Draco's stead as per the vow, or he would be killed.Draco's knowledge at the time included:
He had limited options: either kill or die, and let his parents die. He had already contributed to Death Eaters on school grounds. If he failed his mission, his parents and he would likely die. His only option after failing was to die to give his parents a chance to live another day.Complicated Dynamics and Options
The complex dynamics between the characters, however, made Dumbledore's options limited:
He could not offer 'witness protection' because he could not reach the Malfoys to protect Draco's parents too. If he staged Draco's death with Snape killing Draco, he might save all involved. Dumbledore did not know about the other Death Eaters in the castle, which made his plans wobbly. He might have had a Plan Q with Snape for the Malfoys, but it was too late to launch. Another option could have been to put Draco under Severus' protection, mentioning the vow, Draco’s soul, and not his wand. Alternatively, the ‘old schemer’ might have been too desperate to think about Fidelius again, his plans already dead.Conclusion and Final Options
Dumbledore, with limited resources, might have been ready to put Draco under Severus' protection, making both boys aware of who and why had to kill him. This could have exchanged benefits, such as a Gryffindor sword, among other hidden agreements. Although the plan seemed insufficient, it could imply that Draco had a choice despite the catastrophic events of the night.