What If Harry Broke Things Off with Hermione after She Lost His Firebolt in Prisoner of Azkaban?

Imagine a scenario in which Harry Potter and Hermione Granger's long-standing friendship takes an ominous turn, and Harry decides to completely sever ties with Hermione after she loses his Firebolt broom to Professor McGonagall. This significant event would not only alter their relationship dynamics but would also drastically impact the overall narrative of the series. Let's explore the potential implications of such a decision.

Character Development

Harry: If Harry had chosen to break things off with Hermione, it would reflect a more impulsive and less forgiving side to his character. This decision could temporarily lead Harry to rely more on his best friend Ron, but it might also result in a sense of isolation. Hermione often provided emotional support and wisdom, making her an invaluable part of Harry's support system. Without her, Harry might feel unsupported and unsupported in the face of challenges, potentially relying more on Ron for companionship and emotional comfort.

Hermione: On the other hand, a complete break in their relationship could lead Hermione to become more introspective. She might start questioning her decisions and the value of her friendships generally, possibly leading her to take more risks in her studies or in her adventures with Harry and Ron. This scenario would challenge Hermione to find her own path and prove herself independently, without the influence or guidance of her friends.

Friendship Dynamics

Ron and Harry: The change in Harry's relationship with Hermione could create tension between Harry and Ron, who are still his closest friends. Ron might feel caught in the middle, leading to strain in his friendship with both Harry and Hermione. Their dynamics might become more complicated, with each trying to navigate the changes in their relationships carefully.

Ron and Hermione: Ron would potentially become a mediator in their relationship, trying to mend the rift and keep the trio as united as possible. However, Ron's role as a buffer could also create more tension, as he would have to balance supporting both friends while also trying to keep the peace.

Plot Developments

Lack of Collaboration: Hermiones absence would mean that Harry and Ron would have to tackle problems without her intellect and resourcefulness. This could lead to more mistakes and setbacks in their adventures, especially in events such as the Triwizard Tournament and the complex setup of Voldemort's return. Ron would have to rely more heavily on his own intelligence and the strategic thinking of Hermione, which he might not possess or use as effectively.

Impact on Key Events: The formation of Dumbledore's Army, for instance, might be significantly altered. Hermione's deep understanding of magical theory and her leadership skills would be crucial in organizing such a group. Her absence would likely hinder their planning and effectiveness in preparing for the challenges ahead, including the search for Horcruxes and the eventual confrontation with Voldemort.

Themes of Loyalty and Forgiveness

Exploration of Themes: A scenario where Harry breaks off with Hermione could serve as a powerful exploration of themes like loyalty, forgiveness, and the complexities of friendships. Harry's decision to separate from his best friend could be a lesson in understanding and communication among friends. It could also highlight the importance of forgiveness and the strength of their bond, which is fundamental to their perseverance throughout the series.

Long-Term Consequences

Future Conflicts: If Harry maintained a grudge against Hermione, it could lead to more significant conflicts later in the series. Their friendship might never be the same, and their ability to unite against common foes could be compromised. They would have to work harder to rebuild their trust, which could impact their effectiveness in future battles.

Romantic Subplots: The absence of Hermione in Harry's life could also impact potential romantic subplots, particularly with Ginny Weasley. Harry's emotional state and support network would be fundamentally different, leading to subtle changes in his relationships and their dynamics.

Conclusion

In summary, the decision for Harry to break things off with Hermione would lead to substantial changes in character arcs, relationships, and plot developments. It would ultimately alter the trajectory of the series and the themes it explores, making it a pivotal moment in the story. This scenario forces a reevaluation of friendship, loyalty, and trust, which are crucial elements in the Harry Potter narrative.