Was Jacob Obliviated in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them?

One of the most intriguing plot points in J.K. Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them involves the character of Jacob Kowalski. Throughout the film, Jacob, a No-Maj (non-magical person) from New York, becomes enmeshed in a magical world that he must navigate. At the end of the film, he undergoes a memory modification to forget about the magical happenings and his interactions with Newt Scamander and other wizards. However, this obliviation is not as straightforward as it seems. Let's explore the nuances of Jacob's condition.

Is Jacob's Memory Truly Obliviated?

Yes, Jacob Kowalski was obliviated in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. After Newt and the other wizards defeat Gellert Grindelwald, Jacob is subjected to a memory modification designed to erase his memories of the magical events. This is evidenced by Jacob's forgetfulness of the magical creatures and his interactions with Newt and the wizards. However, this obliviation is not permanent and is explored further in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.

The Temporary Nature of Jacob's Obliviation

At one point during the year of 1927, Jacob was under a spell and went to Newt's house. Newt soon discovered that Jacob was under a spell and destroyed the charm. While this might seem like a temporary alteration, the true mechanism behind Jacob's obliviation is more complex. The memory modification is part of a broader magical event orchestrated by the Thunderbird venom and the Swooping Evil creature's secretions.

Memories of the Magical World

Throughout the film, Jacob's experiences with the magical world are crucial. Newt Scamander mentioned that Swooping Evil secretions can 'Remove Bad Memories.' This statement suggests a method to erase detrimental memories. However, Jacob’s memory of experiencing the wizarding world as a No-Maj is not bad but, rather, a positive experience. Jacob told Newt that he didn't think the events were a dream because he could not make them up.

Queenie's Role in Jacob's Obliviation

However, it’s arguable whether Jacob's memory was obliviated by the rain caused by the Thunderbird or by Queenie Goldstein. A closer examination of the film reveals that the memory modification may have been performed by Queenie. Her kiss to Frank during the storm could have been a crucial factor in Jacob's obliviation. The evidence lies in Jacob's recognition of Queenie at the end of the film when she visits his bakery. He gently touched his cheek, a gesture reminiscent of how Queenie would touch him, before smiling.

Further Analysis and Spoilers

For a deeper dive, readers can explore Asher Scheiner's detailed analysis regarding Jacob's memory and the potential mechanism behind the obliviation. This theory suggests that Jacob's memory was not fully erased by the rain but rather by Queenie. A Fantastic Beasts sequel may further clarify this mystery and explore the lasting impact of these events on Jacob’s life.