Now that the Harry Potter series has finally come to an end, and since we all have read the whole thing hundreds of times, here’s my list of the most memorable moments of the series (from the books of course; the movies are a big pile of junk). If you haven’t finished book 7, be aware that there are spoilers everywhere, but then, if you still haven’t finished it, maybe you deserve to have your reading spoiled. Anyway, here’s the list (not in any order):
“I am Lord Voldemort” (HP2) : One of the most brilliant scenes in the book is when Tom Riddle says “Lord Voldemort is my past, present and future”, then writes his name “Tom Marvolo Riddle” using Harry’s wand and rearranges the letters to form “I am Lord Voldemort”. No wonder Harry was shocked. We all were.
Dumbledore stunning Barty Crouch Jr. (HP4) : First time we see fury in Dumbledore’s eyes. And the first time Harry realises why Dumbledore was considered the best wizard ever. Brilliantly described.
“Lord Voldemort had risen again” (HP4) : This sentence gives me the chills every time I read it. No other sentence has as much significance as this one.
Dumbledore duelling (HP5) : For me, the best chapter in the entire series is “The only one he ever feared” in OOTP. The duel between Voldemort and Dumbledore is without a question the best fight in the whole series. Seeing a calm Dumbledore battling Voldemort and calling him “Tom” was particularly satisfying.
Dumbledore’s murder (HP6) : Snape murders Dumbledore. I was so shocked, I didn’t speak to anyone for two days. Totally worth the eight hundred rupees I spent on the book.
The Prince’s tale (HP7) : Though expected, Snape turning out to be the good guy and turning out to be the series’s biggest tragic hero was definitely one of the best. Remember the memory when Dumbledore tells that little Harry has the exact same eyes as Lily and Snape screams in agony? That one simply stands out. Unfortunately, knowing Rowling, she could have written this chapter better. It seemed like she was running out of paper.
The battle of Hogwarts (HP7) : Seeing everyone come together to battle Voldemort was a real treat to read. I particulary enjoyed the part when the whole of Harry’s old quidditch team comes together. Never thought I would see that happening again.
In defence of Harry (HP7) : Remember when Voldemort offers a deal, asking them to give up Harry and Pansy Parkinson screams at everyone asking them to get him? Everyone rushes towards Harry, not to capture him but to shield him. Winning moment.
The unforgivable curses (HP4) : The fake Mad-eye Moody’s demonstration of the Imperious, the Cruciatus and the Avada Kedavra curses is unforgettable.
The Marauders (HP3) : Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs. Who can forget them? (My theory turned out to be true in the end. They die in the reverse order.)
“Accio Firebolt!” (HP4) : During the first task of the triwizard tournament, the part where Harry is waiting in the tent and can only hear the commentary of the other participants’ attempts simply stands out. I don’t remember perspiring so much in anticipation any other time. The way Harry captures the golden egg dodging the dragon is equally exciting.
“Wow! We’re identical!” (HP7) : Fred and George. Simply the best.
And that’s my list. I might add a few more if I feel something else really deserves to be there. And if you think your favourite part is missing (I bet it is!) do let me know!
