Molly Weasley's Finale Takedown of Bellatrix Lestrange and Neville's Personal Vengeance

In the climactic battle of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Molly Weasley emerges as a hero by taking down Bellatrix Lestrange, the dark witch responsible for the torture and death of her sons-in-law, Alice and Frank Longbottom. This pivotal moment in the series showcases the themes of maternal protection and the personal stakes involved in the battle against the Dark Arts.

Molly Weasley's Decisive Move

During the final Battle of Hogwarts, Molly Weasley uses a combination of spells to bring down Bellatrix. She first casts Petrificus Totalus, the Body Binding Curse, immobilizing her then follows with a powerful red spell, either Reducto or Diffindo, both of which would have caused significant damage. While the exact spell is not explicitly stated in the books, it is clear that the combination of the Body Binding Curse and a destructive spell ultimately led to Bellatrix's demise.

Belief and Assumption

Given Bellatrix's dramatic shattering, many fans speculate that Deletrius might have been the final spell she used. However, further investigation into the context and the specific spells mentioned in the books, it is more likely that Molly Weasley used Petrificus Totalus followed by a destructive spell to eliminate the threat to her family.

Neville's Personal Vendetta

While Molly Weasley's action highlights maternal love and protection, Neville Longbottom's confrontation with Bellatrix holds a different significance. Neville is motivated by a personal vendetta, driven by the tragic loss of his parents to Bellatrix's torture and eventual senile condition. If Neville had taken the decisive action to kill Bellatrix, it would have been a powerful moment, showcasing his character development and the depth of his anger and grief.

However, Molly's choice to do the deed herself underscores an alternate theme: the selflessness and bravery of ordinary people who stand up against overwhelming odds. Molly, consumed by grief and the desire to protect her family, carries out the ultimate sacrifice without hesitation. Her motivation is more primal and rooted in the love that she holds for her children and her sister-in-law, Ginny.

Debate and Analysis

Some argue that Neville's involvement would have made the narrative more impactful, as his confrontation with Bellatrix would have brought closure to his own personal tragedy. Others, like J.K. Rowling, might have felt that Molly's action captures the essence of an ordinary person rising to extraordinary circumstances. The exact flow of events and the flow of spells used in the crucial moment might differ depending on the interpretation, but the core theme remains the same: the willingness to sacrifice for one's loved ones.

Fan Theories and Speculation

While the exact spells are not specified, fan theories often suggest that a non-Avada Kedavra spell could have been used, such as Cognatus Occidere. Despite its deadly nature, it is not one of the Unforgivable Curses and aligns with the idea that good wizards use fatal magic in moments of personal desperation and anguish.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the inclusion of Cognatus Occidere incorporates J.K. Rowling's linguistic creativity, utilizing a form of Latin that is a mix of different languages – a characteristic often seen in the book series.

In conclusion, both Molly Weasley and Neville Longbottom’s actions are vital to the overarching narrative of the Harry Potter series, showing different facets of bravery and personal motivations. Whether it is the selflessness of a mother protecting her children or the burning desire for vengeance, both stories contribute to the rich tapestry of the Harry Potter universe.