Dumbledore's Death in Harry Potter: Conquering Earthly Death Through Love
In the magical world of Harry Potter, J.K. Rowling masterfully weaves intricate themes, allegories, and symbolism into her narrative. It’s no secret that there is a heavy Christian influence in Harry’s story arc throughout the series. But let’s not beat a dead thestral—I’d like to explore the symbolism in one of the smaller scenes, particularly the scene right after Albus Dumbledore's death at the hands of Severus Snape. Yes, we have also all read and heard about the murder scene many, many times since it was revealed in book and film, but as I was rewatching “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” last week, I realized there is a powerful metaphor—not in the death itself, but in what unfolds afterward. Beyond the wizardry and fantasy, this moment carries profound Christian symbolism, echoing the message that earthly death is not canceled but conquered through love and sacrifice.
Sketch completed by Savannah Newton of Wished Upon Studio in 2018
Love as a Powerful Force
Throughout the Harry Potter series, love is portrayed as a potent and transcendent force. Although his decision making skills can be argued by fans and non-fans alike, Dumbledore, the wise and benevolent headmaster of Hogwarts, embodies this love. Dumbledore recognizes that the power of love, selflessly expressed, has the potential to overcome even the darkest of forces. While often not apparent on the surface, his actions, decisions, and teachings are consistently driven by love for others, especially Harry.
The Astronomy Tower
Dumbledore's death occurs atop the Astronomy Tower at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As a location that can be interpreted as significant symbolism of the celestial realm, often associated with heaven or the divine, the setting primes the audience for a moment of spiritual significance. His lifeless body falls from the tower down to the field below (this scene is so beautifully done in the film, giving us those final, graceful, few moments in slow motion looking into Dumbledore’s eyes as we say our goodbye). The enemy has banished our beloved Headmaster from the highest place, to the lowest place; and for a moment it feels like the enemy has won. The school is shrouded in darkness, and the sinister mark of the Death Eaters, the "Dark Mark," hovers in the sky. Amidst this darkness, Dumbledore's death is a luminous act of love.
Sketch completed by Savannah Newton of Wished Upon Studio in 2018
The Wand Salute
Soon after Dumbledore's death, the students and teachers of Hogwarts gather in the courtyard to witness the evidence of the tragedy, and mourn together. With their wands held high in a silent Lumos solute, they conjure thousands of bright lights, dispelling the Dark Mark. This magical phenomenon is a visual representation of the power of love and unity, and faith in the authority of good over evil, transcending fear and darkness. This is the moment that struck me the strongest. This symbol in the sky, the embodiment of hate and bitterness and condescension—the symbol of the darkest Wizard in the world, possibly to ever live—dispelled with a simple act of reverence from those who love this man whose body was destroyed by its casters.
The Light Over Darkness
The scene of Dumbledore's death in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" serves as a reminder that love, sacrifice, and unity have the power to conquer even the darkest of forces. It echoes Christian themes of selflessness, resurrection, and the triumph of love over death. In the Wizarding World, as in our own, such acts of love and sacrifice remind us that earthly death is not the end but a transition to something greater.
Dumbledore's legacy lives on, not only in the Wizarding World but also in the hearts of those who have been touched by his wisdom and love. His death is a testament to the enduring power of love, unity, and the belief that darkness can be dispelled, and death can be conquered through the light of love.
Note: Most of this article was written just before the passing of our beloved movie Dumbledore, Michael Gambon. I do strongly feel that it is not coincidence that I was inspired by this scene at that time. Along with so many, I am so grateful for his portrayal of our Hogwarts Headmaster and enjoy the many sweet behind-the-scenes stories that the movie crew and actors have shared of Michael over the years. He was a talented man and his warmth and intelligence transcended the screen into our homes and hearts. May he rest in peace.
Savannah Newton is a mother, artist at Wished Upon Studio, and project manager/solutions tech with The Collab Team.
She is a proud Dis-nerd and Harry Potter lover, and loves to over-analyze plot points and metaphors within children’s movies and content.
