What Curse Did Ron Use on Nagini?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Ron Weasley, in the climactic battle of the Battle of Hogwarts, finally found his moment of true heroism when he destroyed Voldemort’s final Horcrux, Nagini, with a well-aimed spell. The spell he used was the Banishing Charm, also known as “Depulso”.
The Significance of Ron’s Act
Destroying Nagini was far more than just eliminating a dangerous snake. It was the final step in weakening Voldemort, removing the last tether to his immortality and making him vulnerable to a final, fatal blow. Until Nagini was dispatched, Voldemort was effectively unkillable. Ron’s act was thus pivotal to Voldemort’s defeat.
Why “Depulso” and Not Another Curse?
The choice of the Banishing Charm, while perhaps not the most dramatic of spells, was strategically sound. Several factors contributed to its effectiveness in this situation:
- Accuracy: In the chaos of battle, a precise and well-aimed spell was crucial. “Depulso” could be directed with pinpoint accuracy, which Ron demonstrated expertly.
- Speed: Ron needed to act quickly. Nagini was a dangerous opponent, and any delay could have had dire consequences. The Banishing Charm is relatively quick to cast.
- Effectiveness against Snakes: While many more visually impressive curses exist, a powerful banishing charm could forcefully dislodge or even impale Nagini on something else. The description in the book suggests Nagini was launched out of her protective bubble.
- Opportunity: This opportunity presented itself when Nagini was momentarily vulnerable, trapped within the protective bubble cast by Voldemort. A spell intended to kill or directly harm might have been blocked or deflected by the magical barrier. “Depulso,” in contrast, could be used to exploit the situation and move Nagini out of the bubble, leaving her vulnerable to Neville Longbottom.
“Depulso”: More Than Just a Simple Charm
While often considered a relatively simple charm used for moving objects, the Banishing Charm’s power is dependent on the caster’s ability. A skilled wizard can imbue it with considerable force. In Ron’s case, his fear, determination, and the overwhelming need to protect his friends likely amplified the charm’s potency, turning it into a decisive blow against the final Horcrux.
Ron’s Character Development
Ron’s destruction of Nagini is a testament to his character growth throughout the series. Often insecure and overshadowed by Harry and Hermione, he ultimately rises to the occasion, demonstrating courage and skill when it matters most. This act solidifies his place as a vital member of the trio and a true hero.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly does the Banishing Charm do?
The Banishing Charm, or “Depulso,” is a spell used to forcefully move an object away from the caster. Its power can vary depending on the wizard’s skill and intent.
2. Why didn’t Harry destroy Nagini?
Harry was preoccupied with his final confrontation with Voldemort. Furthermore, Harry was still connected with Voldemort. He could not harm Nagini until Voldemort was weak enough to kill. Ron’s assistance was crucial in the Battle of Hogwarts.
3. Was Nagini Voldemort’s only Horcrux?
No. Voldemort created seven Horcruxes in total: Tom Riddle’s diary, Marvolo Gaunt’s Ring, Salazar Slytherin’s Locket, Helga Hufflepuff’s Cup, Rowena Ravenclaw’s Diadem, Harry Potter (unintentionally), and Nagini.
4. What made Nagini such a dangerous Horcrux?
Nagini’s danger stemmed from her constant proximity to Voldemort, her ability to be used as a weapon, and the difficulty in reaching her to destroy the Horcrux. She was essentially Voldemort’s bodyguard and pet.
5. Could someone have used another spell to destroy Nagini?
Potentially, yes. However, the Banishing Charm was effective in the specific circumstances. Other spells might have required more time to cast or could have been blocked. Also, it was not a matter of destroying her, but removing her from her protective barrier.
6. Did Ron know Nagini was a Horcrux before destroying her?
It’s not explicitly stated whether Ron knew definitively that Nagini was the final Horcrux at that precise moment. However, he was aware of the Horcruxes and their significance. His instinct and quick thinking were crucial.
7. Why was Nagini inside a protective bubble?
Voldemort, knowing the other Horcruxes had been destroyed, was protecting Nagini with a magical barrier to prevent her from being harmed.
8. How powerful does a Banishing Charm need to be to kill a magical creature?
The power needed depends on the creature’s size, strength, and magical resistance. In Nagini’s case, it didn’t necessarily have to kill her outright. It only needed to remove her from the protected bubble.
9. Did anyone else assist Ron in destroying Nagini?
While Ron was the one who cast the Banishing Charm, the circumstances created by the battle and Voldemort’s temporary distraction contributed to the opportunity. Neville Longbottom ultimately killed Nagini after Ron removed her from the bubble with the Sword of Gryffindor.
10. What were the other Horcruxes destroyed with?
The other Horcruxes were destroyed with various means: Tom Riddle’s Diary – destroyed with a Basilisk fang; Marvolo Gaunt’s Ring – destroyed with Godric Gryffindor’s sword; Salazar Slytherin’s Locket – destroyed with Godric Gryffindor’s sword; Helga Hufflepuff’s Cup – destroyed with a Basilisk fang; Rowena Ravenclaw’s Diadem – destroyed by Fiendfyre; and Harry Potter – Killed by Voldemort’s Killing Curse.
11. How did Hermione know about Horcruxes?
Hermione researched Horcruxes extensively in the restricted section of the Hogwarts library. Her knowledge was crucial to their quest to find and destroy them.
12. What other notable spells does Ron use in the Harry Potter series?
Ron uses various spells throughout the series, including the Wingardium Leviosa spell, though not successfully at first, and defensive spells like Protego. He also demonstrates increasing skill with charms and hexes as he gains experience.
13. Is the Banishing Charm a difficult spell to master?
While seemingly simple, the effectiveness of the Banishing Charm depends on the caster’s focus, power, and control. Achieving significant power with it requires practice and skill.
14. What is the counter-charm to the Banishing Charm?
The counter-charm to the Banishing Charm is the Summoning Charm (Accio), which brings an object towards the caster.
15. How does Ron’s destruction of Nagini contribute to the overall theme of the books?
Ron’s act reinforces the theme of ordinary individuals rising to extraordinary circumstances and the importance of friendship and loyalty in overcoming adversity. It highlights that even those who may doubt themselves can play a crucial role in the fight against evil.