Does Molly Weasley Use Avada Kedavra?
The short answer is a resounding no. Molly Weasley does not use the Avada Kedavra curse to defeat Bellatrix Lestrange in the final battle at Hogwarts. This is a crucial point, often debated among fans, and understanding why is important for appreciating the nuances of the scene and Molly’s character. While the duel is dramatic and ultimately fatal for Bellatrix, it’s crucial to note that Molly’s spell is not the Killing Curse.
The confusion stems, in part, from the intensity and finality of the scene. Bellatrix is completely destroyed, leaving no doubt about the outcome. However, the books explicitly state that Molly refrains from using Avada Kedavra. The narrative emphasizes that both witches are fighting to kill, but Molly achieves her goal through a combination of skill and rage rather than resorting to the Unforgivable Curse.
In the book, the spell that Molly uses on Bellatrix is left unnamed and undefined. The text describes it as being delivered with “spectacular accuracy,” suggesting that Molly’s magical prowess, fueled by her rage, is what ultimately leads to Bellatrix’s downfall. There is no description of a green flash, the visual hallmark of Avada Kedavra, which further confirms that it wasn’t used.
The movie adaptation of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 also avoids the depiction of the Avada Kedavra curse. Instead, it showcases Molly freezing Bellatrix first, most likely with Petrificus Totalus, and then unleashing a second spell that causes Bellatrix to shatter into pieces. While the exact nature of the second spell is not stated, the visual effect, combined with the absence of the green light, confirms that it’s not the Killing Curse. The visual effects team clearly made a deliberate choice to represent it differently than Avada Kedavra.
This distinction is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, using an Unforgivable Curse is a very dark act that places a wizard or witch in a moral grey area. Molly, while furious and fiercely protective of her children, does not cross that line. She remains within the bounds of using acceptable, albeit lethal, magic. Secondly, it highlights that she achieves victory through magical competence, precision, and an incredible emotional drive instead of relying solely on a darker method.
Therefore, while both book and film depict Bellatrix’s demise at the hands of Molly, neither scenario employs the Killing Curse. Molly’s victory is a testament to her inner strength and maternal fury channeled through skillful magic. The absence of Avada Kedavra is a conscious choice that reinforces Molly’s character and the larger themes of the series.
Frequently Asked Questions About Molly Weasley and Avada Kedavra
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the details of this crucial scene and Molly Weasley’s capabilities:
1. What Spell Did Molly Weasley Use on Bellatrix?
The exact spell Molly used to kill Bellatrix is never explicitly stated in the books. It is described as a powerful spell delivered with deadly accuracy, not Avada Kedavra. In the films, she uses what appears to be a combination of Petrificus Totalus to immobilize Bellatrix followed by an unspecified spell that causes her body to shatter.
2. Why Didn’t Bellatrix Use Avada Kedavra on Molly?
Bellatrix’s decision not to immediately use Avada Kedavra stems from her arrogance and sadism. She was “playing with her food,” relishing the opportunity to torment Molly and her family. This hubris ultimately allowed Molly the opening to strike the killing blow. Bellatrix underestimated Molly’s power and determination.
3. Why Was Molly So Powerful in That Duel?
Molly’s power in that moment was fueled by intense rage and protectiveness towards her family. She had been pushed to her breaking point, and her raw emotion combined with her magical abilities led to a devastating and incredibly precise spell. She was fighting for her children, and this parental protection is a strong motivator in the Harry Potter universe. Additionally, she was a member of the Order of the Phoenix, indicating significant magical ability.
4. Was Molly Weasley a Good Wizard?
Yes, Molly Weasley was a very skilled witch. While she may not have had the flashy combat abilities of other characters, her mastery of household magic and her strong magical foundation were undeniable. Her ability to cast non-verbal spells also demonstrated her magical talent and competence.
5. How Did Molly Kill Bellatrix? What Spell?
In the books, the exact spell is unspecified, but it’s not Avada Kedavra. It is said to be a precise and powerful spell. In the film, Molly first freezes Bellatrix, likely with Petrificus Totalus, then uses another spell that causes her to shatter. Neither case involves the green flash of Avada Kedavra.
6. Is It True That Molly Used a Stunner?
While some fans speculate it was a powerful Stunner, there’s no canonical confirmation that Molly used Stupefy (the Stunning Spell). In the movies, it is visually suggested that one spell immobilizes (likely Petrificus Totalus), followed by another that has a different visual effect, and this second spell is the one that kills Bellatrix.
7. Who Is Stronger, Molly or Bellatrix?
Bellatrix, prior to this specific duel, was considered one of Voldemort’s most powerful and dangerous followers, but Molly was stronger in this moment. Bellatrix underestimated her opponent, and Molly’s rage and love for her family allowed her to surpass her usual level of power. Bellatrix was not in her prime during the fight, and Molly’s sheer focus pushed her to victory.
8. Did Molly Intend to Kill Bellatrix?
Yes. The narrative makes it very clear that both witches were fighting to kill each other. Molly’s motivations were fuelled by Bellatrix almost harming her daughter Ginny, as well as a life-long need to protect her family from harm.
9. Why Was Bellatrix So Arrogant?
Bellatrix’s arrogance stemmed from her belief in her own superiority and her unwavering devotion to Voldemort. She considered herself to be one of his most valued followers and viewed most others, particularly blood traitors and “housewives,” as beneath her. This overconfidence was her downfall.
10. Has Anyone Good Ever Used Avada Kedavra?
The only confirmed instance of a “good” wizard using Avada Kedavra is Snape’s mercy killing of Dumbledore, with his consent. It was a difficult choice that weighed heavily on Snape, highlighting the gravity of using such a dark curse.
11. What Does Molly Say When She Kills Bellatrix?
In the books, Molly yells, “NOT MY DAUGHTER, YOU BITCH!” In the movie adaptation, however, the famous line is removed.
12. Was Molly Underestimated Throughout the Series?
Yes, Molly was often underestimated due to her role as a homemaker. Her domestic skills were not seen as valuable or powerful in the wizarding world, but her magical strength was never truly in question, especially during times of conflict.
13. Did Voldemort Care About Bellatrix?
Voldemort did not love anyone; Bellatrix was loyal to him but his only value of her was in her servitude. He saw her as a valuable follower, but he was incapable of true love or emotional attachment. His reaction to her death was based on the loss of a valuable pawn, not any personal affection.
14. What Was Arthur’s Nickname for Molly?
Arthur Weasley affectionately calls Molly “Mollywobbles”. This nickname alludes to Molly’s worrying tendencies and her anxiety about the safety of her family.
15. What Was Molly’s Biggest Fear?
Molly’s biggest fear was losing her family. This is made clear when her boggart takes the form of her dead children and husband. Her maternal instincts and fierce protectiveness are core to her character.