In Harry Potter: Why Was Peter Pettigrew Betrayed and Disowned?

In the beloved series of books and films, Harry Potter, the character Peter Pettigrew, originally known as Scabbers, played by Ron Weasley, is remembered as one of the most revisionist characters. His actions as a member of the Marauders alongside his subsequent betrayal to the darkest forces in the wizarding world deeply affected his relationships with his former friends. Let's delve into the key reasons why Peter Pettigrew was betrayed and disowned by James Potter, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and his role in the Marauders' legacy.

After being disowned by his friends primarily due to his betrayal and the choices he made later in life, Pettigrew stands as a striking example of a character who lost standing among those he once called friends. This article explores the reasons behind his disownment and how his actions altered the course of his life and the Marauders' legacy.

Betrayal of James and Lily Potter

Pettigrew, along with his friends from his Marauder days James Potter, Sirius Black, and Remus Lupin, was trusted and respected. However, all trust was shattered when he betrayed the Potters, revealing their location to Lord Voldemort, ultimately leading to their tragic deaths. This act of treachery was seen as the ultimate betrayal, causing the deepest divide between Pettigrew and his friends, who viewed him as a dishonorable traitor.

Switching Sides

Following his betrayal, Pettigrew's next choice was to join Voldemort and become his servant. This decision further alienated him from his former friends, who were fighting against Voldemort and his supporters. The stark contrast between Pettigrew's allegiance and the brave, selfless stand of the Marauders solidified the distance between them.

Scabbers’ Cowardice and Self-Serving Behavior

During his time as Ron Weasley's mischievous pet rat, Pettigrew showed the cowardice and self-serving behavior that were starkly different from the bravery and loyalty of the other Marauders. His actions as a rogue rat in the Weasley household were designed to evade capture and accountability, further cementing his reputation as a betrayer and a usurper.

Sirius Black's Perspective

Sirius Black, in particular, held a deep resentment towards Pettigrew. He viewed Pettigrew as a traitor and felt that his actions had not only betrayed James and Lily but also the bond of friendship among the Marauders. Sirius's perspective was emblematic of the betrayal and the breaking of trust that ensued, with no formal expulsion but rather the disbandment of the Marauders due to their actions.

A poignant phrase from the Harry Potter series, "Remus went to the funeral alone," symbolizes the lasting impact of Pettigrew's betrayal on the Marauders and their legacy. This tragic detail encapsulates the isolation and betrayal that the Marauders experienced on that fateful Halloween night.

While the Harry Potter Wiki states that Pettigrew was "disowned," the books depict the Marauders' group disbanding on that night, with James dead, Peter presumed dead, Sirius falsely accused and sent to Azkaban, and Remus left alone. In the essence of fandom, Pettigrew was seen as a traitorous rat who sold out the friends who once loved and accepted him to Voldemort, making him deserving of the disownment and hatred he received.

In conclusion, Peter Pettigrew's actions and choices marked him as untrustworthy and dishonorable in the eyes of his former friends. This disownment from their legacy and the enduring bond of friendship serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of one's actions in the Harry Potter universe.