The Ominous History Between Albus Dumbledore and Gellert Grindelwald

Albus Dumbledore and Gellert Grindelwald, two powerful wizards from the world of Harry Potter, shared a complex and tragic history. This article delves into their initial meeting, the intensity of their relationship, and the pivotal moments that shaped their destinies.

First Meeting: A Nineteen-Year-Old Encounter

Albus Dumbledore, at 18/19 years old, and Gellert Grindelwald, who was likely around the same age, first met during a fateful encounter at the age of 17/18 in the village of Godric's Hollow.

At this time, Albus was planning a world tour with his best friend, Elphias Doge, but his plans were interrupted by his mother's tragic death, causing him to return home. It was while visiting his aunt, Bathilda Bagshot, that Albus encountered Grindelwald. Bathilda Bagshot resided in the same village, and Grindelwald was staying with her. Although they were studying at different magical schools—Dumbledore at Hogwarts and Grindelwald at Durmstrang—both were in their late teens, making them similar in age.

Award-winning Love and Friendship

Despite their early age, Dubelingwald and Dumbledore formed an unbreakable bond. According to J.K. Rowling, they had a romantic relationship and were exceptionally close. Their friendship was not just platonic; it was filled with shared passions and ambitious dreams.

They practically shared everything, including a mutual fascination with the Deathly Hallows. The Deathly Hallows, three legendary magical objects, symbolized ultimate power and immortality, and both wizards were deeply curious about them.

A Common Descent into Darkness

Theirs was not the only deep affection within the family. Dumbledore's brother, Aberforth, was also studying at Hogwarts, and their sister, Arianna, had a difficult time controlling her magic. Arianna, who suppressed her powers, sometimes lost control, which tragically led to the end of their mother's life.

Things took a dark turn when Aberforth returned home for the holidays. Feeling that his brother's plans endangered Arianna, Aberforth confronted both Albus and Grindelwald. The ensuing fight involved a three-way battle between Aberforth, Albus, and Grindelwald. Amidst the chaos, Arianna was accidentally killed. It's unclear who cast the deadly spell that resulted in her demise, but the tension between the brothers and Grindelwald was palpable.

Tragic Consequences and a Path Split

After this tragic event, Aberforth broke Dumbledore's nose at Arianna's funeral. This incident marked a pivotal moment in Albus and Grindelwald's relationship. Grindelwald fled immediately, and their collaboration effectively ended.

Following this chapter, Grindelwald began his dark journey as a Dark Lord, instigating a series of battles and dark deeds. Meanwhile, Dumbledore started to reassess his beliefs and became a professor at Hogwarts. He remained steadfast in his decision to stay out of the growing war, even when people begged him to intervene. According to canonical information, he feared that he would discover who killed Arianna and, worse, that it might have been him.

The Final Clash and Beyond

As the years passed, Dumbledore eventually joined the war against Grindelwald. The iconic duel that followed was one of the most significant moments in their history. After defeating Grindelwald, Dumbledore took the Elder Wand—including it as a necessary part of his victory. However, instead of killing Grindelwald, a choice made out of mercy and fear of the truth, Dumbledore imprisoned him in the Muggle prison of Nurmengard, where he remained for the rest of his life.

In the aftermath of the war, Dumbledore continued to teach magic and break the chains of dark magic, with a focus on ensuring that such a tragic reunion never happened again.

Conclusion

The story of Albus Dumbledore and Gellert Grindelwald is a complex narrative of friendship, romance, and the struggle between light and dark. Their journey from friends to enemies and back again serves as a cautionary tale for those who believe their ambition justifies any means.