Did Aberforth Forgive Albus?

In J.K. Rowlings' Harry Potter universe, the relationship between Aberforth and Albus Dumbledore is complex and often shrouded in mystery. While Aberforth does not explicitly state that he has forgiven his brother, there is a sense of reconciliation between the brothers in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Ultimately, the narrative leaves it somewhat open to interpretation, but there is a suggestion that Aberforth has moved past some of his anger, especially in the context of supporting Harry’s mission.

He still seems quite bitter about what happened when they were teens. It would suggest that he was never able to truly forgive Albus. However, they were reconciled to the point where they were back on speaking terms, as evidenced in the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire film. Furthermore, Aberforth did occasionally provide intelligence to Albus—he notified him when Tom Riddle was in town and prevented Severus Snape from overhearing Sybil Trelawney's full prophecy. While it's not a certainty, it's not out of the question that Aberforth believed Albus’ regret was sincere. But sadly, it doesn’t appear that Aberforth was ever able to forgive his brother for what happened to Ariana.

As an aside, most characters in the Harry Potter universe aren't terribly forgiving and hold onto grudges for their entire lives. Harry is something of an anomaly in how forgiving of a person he is. It's possible that Aberforth, given the passage of time and the fact that they were the last remaining Dumbledores in the wizarding world, eventually found some degree of amity. Time does not always heal all wounds, but family is family, and as the years passed, there usually comes a form of détente.

Someone mentioned that Harry finally got through to Aberforth that Albus had suffered deeply for the mistakes of his youth. Maybe Aberforth finally realized he wasn’t the only one who dealt with the sorrow of Ariana’s tragic passing. This revelation might have contributed to a lingering sense of understanding and perhaps some level of reconciliation, even if it was never fully expressed.

Conclusion

While Aberforth never fully forgave Albus, their relationship evolved beyond the bitterness of their youth. Ultimately, the narrative suggests that both brothers found a measure of healing and understanding, even if it was never fully articulated. The enduring bond between them is a testament to the strength of family, even in the face of tragedy and long-held grudges.