N.E.W.T.S. Curriculum Choices of Harry Potter: Seamus Finnigan and Dean Thomas's Educational Journey

The iconic world of Harry Potter is filled with magical academies and intricate curriculum designed specifically for young witches and wizards. The N.E.W.T.S. stands as one of the most crucial stages in the journey of these students, testing their knowledge and skills in various magical disciplines. Not all students engage in the N.E.W.T.S. examination year, and this is especially true for Dean Thomas and Seamus Finnigan, two prominent characters from the Harry Potter series. This article explores the N.E.W.T.S. curriculum choices of Seamus Finnigan and Dean Thomas, shedding light on their unique educational journey.

Initial Education Choices: A Muggleborn's Path

Both Seamus Finnigan and Dean Thomas were first-year students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. They had a shared experience, albeit from different perspectives. Dean Thomas, being muggleborn, faced unique challenges during his early school years. Unlike his pureblood peers, Dean often felt isolated, grappling with both his magical heritage and the complexities of his Muggle background.

Dean Thomas's Tragic Journey and the N.E.W.T.S. Break

In the midst of the Second Wizarding War, Dean Thomas's life took a tragic turn. He did not return for his N.E.W.T.S. year, a decision directly linked to the conflict besetting the magical community. Following the events of Order of the Phoenix and Half-Blood Prince, he and Ted Tonks found themselves on the run from the Snatchers, a band of kidnappers and bounty hunters. Dean's presence during the final events of Deathly Hallows suggested that he had not returned to Hogwarts at all, leaving the reasons for his absence unclear. The N.E.W.T.S. curriculum, with its rigorous academic demands, became a secondary concern for a boy who was fighting for his life and freedom.

Seamus Finnigan's Struggle and N.E.W.T.S. Exams

Seamus Finnigan, on the other hand, chose to take on the N.E.W.T.S. exam, despite the challenges posed by the war. As a good friend of Harry Potter and a Gryffindor, Seamus's determination to prove himself and contribute to the fight against Voldemort was evident. His decision to take N.E.W.T.S. meant that he faced intense pressure and demands, particularly in subjects like DERAIGN (Dark Forces Defense Association International Registration Group) and DADA (Defense Against the Dark Arts).

Seamus's Educational Choices

Having been beaten up by the Carrow DADA teacher, Seamus's affinity for DADA was clear. His choice of subjects during his N.E.W.T.S. year suggests that he intended to defend his friends and the wizarding world from looming darkness. It's notable that DERAIGN, an organization known for its cutting-edge research and insights into the Dark Arts, became one of his focus areas. Additionally, subjects like Transfiguration, Charms, and Potions were likely on his roster, given their relevance and significance in the magical world.

Conclusion: The Impact of the War on Education

The story of Dean Thomas and Seamus Finnigan's N.E.W.T.S. journey serves as a poignant reminder of how war can disrupt the normal course of education. Dean's absence and Seamus's determination reflect the personal and collective impact of the war on young people. These characters highlight the resilience and determination required to navigate the challenges of adolescence, magical or otherwise, during a time of immense conflict.

Seamus Finnigan and Dean Thomas's N.E.W.T.S. curriculum choices, while differing greatly due to their individual circumstances, underscore the profound influence of the Second Wizarding War on the path of young wizards. Their decisions and experiences provide insight into the sacrifices made, the resilience displayed, and the bravery required to continue one's education during times of hardship.