The Dumbledore-Credence Connection: A Deeper Look at the Theories

The longstanding debate over the connection between Dumbledore and Credence in the Fantastic Beasts film series raises intriguing questions. Some fans have speculated that Credence Bearington is related to Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore, while others believe Grindelwald to be behind Credence's background. This article delves into the various theories, examining them through the lens of canon and fan theories.

Theories and Analysis

One popular theory suggests that Credence could be a descendant of Aberforth Dumbledore, given the connection between Dumbledore and the Clearwater family. Aberforth, the younger brother of Albus, could have been involved in a relationship with a half-blood witch or even a Muggle, leading to Credence's birth. This theory aligns with the existing narrative that the wizarding community is often inbred, further supporting the possibility of such a connection.

Another intriguing theory posits that Credence could be Grindelwald's offspring. Given Grindelwald's manipulative nature, it's conceivable he could have convinced a woman to have a child with him, possibly motivated by a desire for a particular artifact like the Hokey. It's a unsettling thought, but the overall consistency with the film series' tone and narrative cannot be ignored.

The Clearwater Revival Theory

Given the existing timeline and the evident inbreeding in the wizarding world, the idea of a Clearwater Revival (or any other descendant of Clearwater) makes sense. We already know that Minerva McGonagall traveled through time to be a teacher before her birth. This precedent introduces the possibility of multiple generations of Clearwater relatives wandering through time and contributing to the unfolding of magical history.

Biological Evidence and Mystery

Another angle of consideration involves the death of Corvus LeStrange, the brother of Nagini. In the documentary The Crimes of Grindelwald, Corvus drowns in a boat accident, leading many fans to speculate that the mother could be the mysterious female Dumbledore who drowned. This theory links the two stories, making the connection between Credence and Dumbledore more plausible.

Considering that the Dumbledore family may not have been wealthy enough to afford a babysitter, it's possible that any caretaker would be motivated by the same desperation to catch Corvus. This makes the scenario of Credence being a babysitter quite improbable.

The Final Reveal in The Little Source

One of the most significant elements of the new film, The Little Source, is the revelation that Credence is actually the long-lost younger brother of Albus Dumbledore. This twist presents a new perspective on the characters and their histories, weaving together the themes of family, connection, and the consequences of one's actions.

Albus's true name, Aurelius, adds an additional layer of depth to the characters. This revelation not only cements the connection between the two but also hints at a more complex relationship between the two brothers, one marked by both love and betrayal.

Conclusion

The connection between Dumbledore and Credence remains a topic of intense debate, with theories ranging from Aberforth's lineage to Grindelwald's manipulation. The revelation in The Little Source provides a significant clue, but much remains to be explored. The clear and consistent evidence points to a deeper, unspoken bond between the two, one that may continue to develop and evolve as the story unfolds.

As we explore the theories and evidence, we can only speculate and hope that future works may provide more clarity on these complex narrative threads.