Did Arthur Weasley and Molly Prewett Get Married During the First Wizarding War?

Introduction

The Hogwarts: A History mentions a significant line regarding the marriage of Arthur Weasley and Molly Prewett during the First Wizarding War. This moment reveals the impetus behind their decision to marry amidst the uncertainty and chaos brought about by the resurgence of Voldemort. But when was this marriage exactly, and how does it fit into the broader timeline of the war?

Timeline of the First Wizarding War

The First Wizarding War, also known as the "Dark Days" or "Troubled Times," took place from the early 1970s to the late 1980s. It saw the rise of the darkest wizard in recent history, Lord Voldemort, and the subsequent dissolution of the Ministry of Magic and the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures.

While the exact date of Arthur and Molly's wedding is not specified, it is clear from the Hogwarts: A History that it occurred during the height of the war. The impetus for their marriage, as mentioned in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, was a sense of urgency driven by the instability in their world. The line "including you and dad" and "Your dad and I were made for each other what was the point in waiting" from Ginny Weasley, serve as a poignant reminder of how young couples felt the need to marry quickly during this tumultuous period.

Challenges of the First Wizarding War

The early part of the First Wizarding War, notably the late 1970s to mid-1980s, saw significant upheaval. As Lord Voldemort sought to unravel the resistance and exert control over the magical world, many magical families found themselves facing impossible choices. The uncertainty and fear that pervaded the wizarding community led to a phenomenon known as 'elopements.' Individuals and couples felt the need to tie the knot quickly to ensure their safety and secure their future.

Arthur and Molly, like many others, felt the pressure to marry sooner rather than later. Their decision to do so can be interpreted as a way to find solace and stability amid the chaos. The marriage provided a sense of normalcy and hope in a world that was rapidly changing and becoming increasingly hostile.

Harry Potter's Birth and Family Dynamics

While the journal entries and wizarding news suggest that many young couples turned to elopements, it's important to place this within the context of Harry Potter's origins. Harry was born in 1980, directly in the middle of the First Wizarding War. This fact is crucial because it places his birth within the height of the conflict, making it a significant event in the wizarding world.

The Weasleys, as a family already engaged in resistance against Voldemort, were particularly vulnerable. Bill, the eldest Weasley son, who is six years older than Harry, also entered the war effort early. The urgency of the situation meant that decisions like marriage had to be made quickly, as they had to balance their personal lives with their responsibilities to the resistance.

Conclusion

The marriage of Arthur Weasley and Molly Prewett during the First Wizarding War was a reflection of the broader trends and pressures of the time. The chaos and uncertainty brought about by Lord Voldemort's resurrection necessitated quick decisions, including the act of marriage for many young couples. As seen in the dialogues from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, the urgency and necessity of tying the knot were well-recognized by both parents and children alike.

For Arthur and Molly, their marriage was an example of finding solace and stability in a world fraught with danger. It bears witness to the resilience and determination of the wizarding community, which faced the threat of Voldemort with unparalleled courage and perseverance.