Which Scenes in Harry Potter Made Your Blood Boil?

Over the years, many fans of the Harry Potter series have identified specific scenes that elicit strong emotions, whether it's intense anger or sadness. While there are numerous instances that might resonate with different feelings, one scene that frequently stands out is the aftermath of the Quidditch match in Order of the Phoenix. This essay explores why this scene, and others involving Snape in Prisoner of Azkaban, infuriate many readers.

The Quidditch Match Incident: Umbridge's Grievous Mistakes

The scene in question occurs in Order of the Phoenix, after the intense Quidditch match between Gryffindor and Slytherin. Draco Malfoy's taunts about the Weasley twins and their families sparked a fierce confrontation, leading to one of the most memorable beatdowns in the series. However, it's the fact that Umbridge, in her capacity as the flawed educational official, took custody of Harry's broomstick and kept it, despite being banned from Quidditch, that truly incenses many readers.

This act not only demonstrates Umbridge's arbitrary authority but also her disregard for the property rights of the students. It's a clear example of how much she prioritizes her own power over fair treatment. This scene leads to the Weasley twins' ingenious escape plan, but the injustice of Umbridge's actions lingers as a significant point of frustration within the series.

Severus Snape's Pettiness: A Consistent Distraction

Severus Snape has long been a contentious character in the series, and Prisoner of Azkaban provides ample evidence of his malicious antics. From his petty pouting over losing an opportunity to harm James and Sirius at the dawn of the novel, to his unjustified threats against Neville's toad, Snape exhibits a pattern of behavior that agitates readers.

One of the most egregious examples is his treatment of Neville's toad in Prisoner of Azkaban. Not only does he threaten to kill it, but he also enforces a rule that requires Hermione to assist him without question. This act is particularly egregious because it is a clear example of a child-like, vindictive behavior from a supposed adult who had a responsibility to handle matters more maturely.

Snape's Harshness and Manipulation

Throughout the series, Snape's actions towards Neville and other characters are deeply troubling. For instance, in his role as Potions professor in Prisoner of Azkaban, Snape deliberately tried to embarrass and sabotage Neville in Professor Lupin's class before Lupin even met him. When Lupin correctly identified Neville as his Boggart, instead of feeling ashamed or horrified, Snape's behavior toward Neville worsened, with him specifically pointing out that Neville had "embarrassed him." This condemnation despite the fact that Lupin had taken the initiative to help Neville illustrates Snape's bitterness and unwillingness to take responsibility.

Snapes's behavior extends beyond just his classes. His interference in Lupin's teaching and blatant disobedience to Dumbledore's orders further highlight his duplicitous nature. Snape's long-maintained tension with Sirius is perpetuated by his instigating a harmful confrontation and later attempting to cast blame on Harry for Sirius's escape, despite lack of evidence. This manipulation and betrayal only add to the frustration many fans experience with his character.

Portrayal and Adaptations

The live-action adaptations of the Harry Potter series often exacerbate the frustrations many fans feel with characters like Snape and Umbridge. Hermione, for example, is often deified, while Ron and other characters are demonized. This polarizing portrayal can lead to a disconnect from the original story and the characters' development.

Fans of the series often take issue with how certain scenes are interpreted in adaptations. The overall narrative often downplays negative consequences for characters, particularly around Snape and Hermione, while placing harsher penalties on Ron and James, further fueling the ire many readers feel.

Conclusion

Severus Snape and Dolores Umbridge are just two of many characters in the Harry Potter series that evoke strong emotional responses, particularly frustration and anger. Whether it's Snape's petty behavior or Umbridge's blatant abuse of power, these scenes stand out as prime examples of the series's emotional depth and the characters' flaws. For fans who find these scenes, or aspects of the series, frustrating, it can be helpful to recognize these moments as part of the broader narrative that shapes the series as a whole.