Why Did Draco Have to Go into Hiding with His Wife and Son?
In 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child', Draco Malfoy and his family face numerous challenges, the underlying reasons for which are multifaceted. This article explores the reasons behind Draco's decision to go into hiding with his wife Astoria and his son Scorpius, highlighting his fears and the complications arising from his dark past.
Exclusion and Stigma
The Threats Looming Over the Family
Like many characters in the Harry Potter series, Draco Malfoy was once a deeply involved supporter of Lord Voldemort. This dark history casts a long shadow over his family. Draco fears that the stigma associated with his family's involvement with Voldemort, as well as the prejudice his son Scorpius faces due to his parent's past, could result in danger for his loved ones.
Scorpius Malfoy, in particular, is targeted by rumors and prejudice. His attendance at Hogwarts, a school famously known for beingfriend of Harry Potter, makes him a scapegoat. Additionally, there are underlying tensions related to the Malfoy family's history, which includes their connections to dark magic and their actions during the war. The looming threat of discrimination and danger further exacerbates these fears.
The Decision to Go into Hiding
The Health and Safety of Astoria and Scorpius
Draco's actions are not only driven by the need to protect Scorpius, but also his wife Astoria. Her health issues add another layer of urgency to their decision to go into hiding. Draco wishes to ensure that Astoria and Scorpius are safe and that their well-being is prioritized. This underlines not only his protective instincts but also his realization that he must distance his family from their dark past.
Their choice to go into hiding can be seen as a way to provide a better future for Scorpius, who is entangled in the complication of his family's legacy and societal expectations. By separating from the public eye, Draco hopes to create a new, more stable environment for his son.
Personal Reflection and Redemption
Draco's Past and Public Perception
Draco's decision to go into hiding also reflects a personal introspection. He acknowledges that he is no longer a free man in the eyes of the public due to his past actions. The death of Dumbledore during the 1997 attack on Hogwarts is a stark reminder of the consequences of his choices. Moreover, his father Lucius Malfoy's ongoing involvement and legacy continue to define him, making true redemption improbable.
While the public might view him as 'blackmailed' into his actions during the war, Draco understands that this excuse is insufficient. His father, Lucius, believed in Voldemort's ideology of blood purity and wizard domination over Muggles, and the Elder Malfoys only betrayed Voldemort because of their son. Despite this, their loyalty to Voldemort wavered due to his numerous punishments.
Lucius Malfoy's highly illegal 'Super Time-Turner', which he gave to Draco in the second half of the play, indicates a complex relationship between the two. Their meetings are described as 'fraught with tension' due to ideological differences. This reflects a struggle between old values and new realities in a constantly evolving wizarding world.
In conclusion, Draco's decision to go into hiding is driven by a desperate need to protect his family from the dangers of his past. While this action may not bring about redemption or change societal perceptions, it serves as a poignant reminder of the weight of one's choices and the lingering impact of even the most significant past actions.