Ron Weasley and Harry Potter's Relationship: Unveiling the Truth Behind Jealousy

Many fans and critics often paint a picture of Ron Weasley as a jealous and envious character, particularly in Books 4 and 7 of the Harry Potter series. However, a closer look at the text reveals a much more nuanced and understandable dynamic between Ron and Harry. In this analysis, we explore other instances where Ron was not jealous of Harry but was rather inspired by his admiration for his friends.

Breaking Harmione’s Over-zealous Narrative

Discarding the notion that Ron was constantly jealous of Harry's fame is crucial for a healthy understanding of their relationship. This idea, which often originates from over-enthusiastic Harmione shippers, is a misconception based on a toxic narrative. In reality, Ron's excitement and admiration stem from other factors.

Scene Analysis: Head Boy and Quidditch Success

Consider the following scene from the series:

No — I’m alone — but I’m different — I look older — and I’m Head Boy!

“What”

I am — I’m wearing the badge like Bill used to — and I’m holding the House Cup and the Quidditch Cup — I’m Quidditch captain too!”

Ron's excitement and pride here do not indicate a pursuit of personal fame or jealousy. Instead, his joy stems from seeing himself in the shadow of his brothers, Bill and Charlie. His desire is to make his parents proud, to be like them in every way possible.

Ron’s Fundamentally Sincere Admiration

Ron's admiration for his brothers Bill and Charlie is deeply rooted in his desire to achieve their level of success and be a source of pride for his parents. This is a normal and healthy aspiration for any child, especially one who has faced a lot of challenges in his early life.

Book 4 and 7: A Closer Look

When examining Ron's feelings about Harry's fame in Books 4 and 7, it's essential to put the scenes in context. Contrary to popular belief, Ron is more likely to be concerned about Hermione's opinion and their mutual friendship. Hermione's perception of Ron's jealousy has fueled much of the narrative. However, it's important to recognize that:

Hermione: Not Always Right

“Of course, I know it sounds like I'm jealous. But how can you not be jealous if your best friend... who you think of as a brother... gets attention like that?”—Hermione Granger, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Hermione's statement highlights her own insecurities and assumptions about Ron's feelings. Her misinterpretations and overzealous behavior can be seen as a reflection of her own insecurities rather than accurate insights into Ron's emotions.

Conclusion

Ron Weasley's actions and words should be analyzed in the context of his genuine admiration for his brothers and his efforts to be a source of pride for his parents. The idea that Ron is constantly jealous of Harry's fame is a misinterpretation fueled by over-enthusiastic Harmione shippers. A holistic understanding reveals a character who is passionate about his friends' successes, driven by a desire to have a positive impact and make his parents proud.

It's important to understand that characters in literature are complex and multifaceted. Ron's feelings and actions should be examined with the same level of nuance as any other character, free from preconceived notions and toxic narratives.