The Complex Inner Struggles of Peter Pettigrew: Why He Was Unwilling to Harm Harry and Betray Voldemort

Peter Pettigrew, also known as Wormtail, had a complicated relationship with Harry Potter. His actions were driven by a mix of fear, self-preservation, guilt, and a complicated sense of loyalty, ultimately leading him to choose not to harm Harry and to betray Voldemort. Let’s delve into the reasons behind these actions and the complex psychological landscape Pettigrew navigated.

Survival Instinct

Primarily motivated by self-preservation, Pettigrew had a history of siding with the strongest party for his own safety. This instinct was heightened when he faced the prospect of harming Harry. He recognized that Voldemort’s return and the potential for danger to himself outweighed his loyalty to the Dark Lord. Pettigrew understood that aligning himself with the strongest force would ensure his survival in an era of ever-increasing threats.

Fear of Voldemort

While Pettigrew served Voldemort with unquestioning loyalty for years, this devotion was not without its shadows. He was also terrified of the Dark Lord, who had a reputation for being both ruthless and unpredictable. After Voldemort's resurrection, Pettigrew understood that he could easily become expendable. By betraying Voldemort in favor of Harry, he may have seen a chance to align himself with someone whom he perceived as less threatening, particularly given that Harry was just a child at the time. However, the new hand given to him as a 'gift' by Voldemort quickly made him realize that hesitation in following commands was itself seen as betrayal.

Guilt and Remorse

Pettigrew’s actions prior to his encounter with Harry were filled with guilt and remorse. His betrayal of James and Lily Potter had deeply affected him. While he had been their friend, ultimately, he chose to protect himself over them. In a way, Harry represented the consequences of his past actions. His unwillingness to harm Harry could stem from a sense of guilt for his previous betrayals, tingeing his moral compass with a deep-seated remorse that prevented him from taking the final step against a young boy.

Loyalty to Old Friends

Despite his cowardice, there was a part of Pettigrew that felt a lingering connection to his old Marauder friends: James Potter, Sirius Black, and Remus Lupin. Harry was a reminder of their shared past, and harming him might have felt like a betrayal of that bond. While this loyalty was complicated by the fear of Voldemort, it remained a significant factor in Pettigrew’s decision-making.

Practical Considerations

Finally, practical considerations came into play when considering the risky move of harming Harry. He likely understood that Harry was a key figure in the fight against Voldemort and attacking him could provoke significant retaliation from both Harry and his allies. This strategic calculation weighed heavily on his decision to betray Voldemort as a safer path forward.

In summary, Pettigrew’s actions were driven by a mix of fear, self-preservation, guilt, and a complicated sense of loyalty, ultimately leading him to choose not to harm Harry and to betray Voldemort. However, his inability to fully commit to his new allegiance brought about his demise, and the new hand he received served as a crucial reminder of the consequences of hesitation in the eyes of his Lord.