Q19. If you could change one plot in the Harry Potter series, what would it be?

Exploring the "What Ifs" of the Harry Potter Series

The Harry Potter series, a beloved global phenomenon, captivates audiences with its rich narrative and complex characters. From "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" to "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," each book and its corresponding Harry Potter movies have left a lasting impact on fans and the fantasy genre alike. This exploration into alternate plot outcomes not only serves to entertain but also deepens our understanding of the original story's emotional and narrative structure.

A. Save Dobby from his tragic fate.

• Dobby's death in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" is undeniably one of the most heartbreaking moments in the Harry Potter movies and books. If Dobby were saved, his presence could significantly alter the series' climax. Dobby, known for his loyalty and bravery, could have provided critical assistance to Harry and his friends, perhaps changing some key outcomes. For instance, imagine Dobby at Hogwarts during the final battle, using his unique house-elf magic to protect characters or relay crucial information. His survival would also have added a lighter, more hopeful tone to the somber endings many characters faced. Moreover, keeping Dobby alive could have expanded his role in post-Harry Potter media, potentially making him a central figure in stories exploring the aftermath of the Battle of Hogwarts.

B. Keep Fred Weasley alive in the Battle.

• The death of Fred Weasley is a poignant reminder of the brutal realities of war within the wizarding world. His demise not only affects the Weasley family but also the broader Harry Potter community. By keeping Fred alive, the narrative could focus more on recovery and rebuilding rather than loss, providing a counterbalance to the series' darker elements. Fred's continued presence could further enrich the Weasley twins' ventures, possibly leading to new magical innovations and business successes. This change would appeal especially to fans who watch Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and subsequent Harry Potter films, where Fred's humor and light-heartedness are a source of joy and relief.

C. Prevent Snape from killing Dumbledore.

• Severus Snape's actions in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" are pivotal. His decision to kill Dumbledore shapes much of the series' final direction and is vital for revealing his complex character. If Snape had not killed Dumbledore, the layers of his loyalty and sacrifice might have unfolded differently. This scenario could lead to a more suspenseful buildup to the revelation of Snape's true intentions, maintaining his mysterious and ambiguous nature for longer. Such a twist would demand a reevaluation of his character across the entire series and particularly in how he is portrayed in the Harry Potter movies and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction.

D. Have Harry lose the Triwizard Tournament.

• Harry Potter's triumph in the Triwizard Tournament in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" is a critical moment of victory that precedes future trials. If Harry had lost, the story could have taken a more introspective turn, exploring themes of failure and resilience. This loss could serve as a powerful lesson that even heroes face setbacks, and it's their response to failure that defines their true character. Such a narrative could provide a deeper, more realistic development of Harry's character, possibly affecting his decisions and strategies in later parts of the series.

Concluding Thoughts

These alternate scenarios invite fans to reimagine and speculate on different outcomes within the Harry Potter universe, enhancing engagement with the original content. As fans revisit these scenarios while watching Harry Potter movies on platforms like HBO or Netflix, or while streaming on Amazon Prime Video or Disney+, they can appreciate the narrative craftsmanship that J.K. Rowling employed in her storytelling.

For those looking to delve deeper, various streaming services offer extensive Harry Potter content. Whether you're watching Harry Potter movies on HBO or Netflix, exploring Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone on Amazon Prime Video, or revisiting Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire on Disney+, each platform provides a unique viewing experience. Furthermore, visiting the Harry Potter exhibition in NYC can offer an immersive look into the wizarding world.

Additionally, the online conversation about these "what ifs" could flourish in fan forums and through TikTok videos. These discussions not only foster a deeper connection with the series but also keep the magical world of Harry Potter alive and relevant.

In conclusion, while the original plotlines of the Harry Potter series are expertly crafted, exploring these alternative scenarios provides fans with not only a fun intellectual exercise but also a way to engage more deeply with the beloved world. Each book and Harry Potter movie offers countless opportunities for reimagination, making Harry Potter a continually evolving narrative for audiences around the globe.