The Unspoken Reasons Behind Dumbledore's Choice for D.A.D.A. Teacher
In the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, J.K. Rowling introduces Alastor Moody as the Defense Against the Dark Arts (D.A.D.A.) teacher. However, it soon becomes apparent that Bartemius Crouch Jr. was impersonating Moody, and the real Moody was actually imprisoned in his trunk for much of the year. This intriguing plot twist raises questions about the suitability of Moody for the role and why Dumbledore did not appoint the real Moody again a year later.
Why Moody Was Chosen for D.A.D.A. in the First Place
The ministry had a vested interest in providing Hogwarts with a suitable D.A.D.A. teacher. Moody, known for his legendary skills and bravery, seemed like the ideal candidate. He was a trusted Order of the Phoenix member and a powerful Auror. However, his appointment was not without controversy. Barty Crouch Jr. managed to impersonate Moody in the school, leading to a year where the students had a flawed and potentially dangerous teacher.
Moody's Absence and the Appointment of Umbridge
After the Goblet of Fire incident, Dumbledore faced the challenge of finding another suitable teacher. When Delores Umbridge was appointed D.A.D.A. teacher, it was widely acknowledged that Dumbledore had not yet found a better candidate. This further raises questions about why Moody was not chosen to return to his position the following year.
Moody's Retreat Post-Goblet of Fire
The real Alastor Moody, having spent a significant amount of time in his trunk, was not eager to return to Hogwarts. The implications of being impersonated by a Death Eater and the subsequent mental and emotional trauma he faced would logically discourage Moody from taking up the position again so soon. Additionally, Moody had important work to do with the Order of the Phoenix and was needed to monitor a critical prophecy within the Ministry.
Political Pressures and the Ministry's Role
Fudge, the Minister of Magic, had his own agenda. He wanted to infiltrate Hogwarts to keep an eye on Dumbledore and prevent the students from joining his army. Had Moody been appointed, he would have served as a useful spy, but this would have been counterproductive to Fudge's goals. Therefore, it was strategically beneficial for Fudge to prevent Moody from teaching at Hogwarts.
The Order of the Phoenix and Post-Goblet of Fire Events
After the events at the Goblet of Fire and Voldemort's return, Moody's role in the Order of the Phoenix became even more critical. He was needed to recruit new members and maintain his position as a spy within the Ministry. For these reasons, Moody prioritized his work in the Order of the Phoenix over teaching at Hogwarts.
Conclusion
The complex interplay of personal trauma, political maneuvering, and strategic necessity led to the decision to not appoint the real Moody as the D.A.D.A. teacher in The Order of the Phoenix. While he was an excellent choice for the role, his priorities and the political climate at the time dictated other responsibilities, necessitating the appointment of Umbridge instead.