How Fudge's Decision to Let Harry Get Away with Blowing Up Marge After Saving Dudley from Dementors Impacted Harry's Fate

When Harry Potter uses magic to inflate his Aunt Marge, he is initially charged with underage magic. However, after he saves his cousin Dudley from attack by Dementors, Fudge makes a pivotal decision that altered Harry's fate and the balance of power in the wizarding world.

Underage Magic Charges and Initial Consequences

The story begins with Harry performing underage magic by inflating his Aunt Marge. This act immediately brings him under scrutiny and he is promptly charged with underage magic use. Being a minor, Harry faces legal repercussions, which are further complicated by the potential danger he poses to others in the wizarding community.

Fudge's Initial Actions and Psychologist's Warning

Following the incident, Harry is taken by Cornelius Fudge, the Minister of Magic, and referred to a psychologist who warns Fudge that if Harry is expelled, it could be more harmful to him and potentially more dangerous to the wizarding world. Fudge is wary of any scenario that could place Harry in a more marginal position where danger could lurk. Given the public's concern and the rise of Sirius Black, the fear is that if Harry is expelled, he might become an easy target for Black and thus an indirect threat to the community.

The Impact of Fudge's Decision

However, as the story progresses, an event unfolds that changes Fudge's stance. In the Prisoner of Azkaban, despite the initial tension surrounding Sirius Black's escape from Azkaban, the real threat faced by Harry and the wizarding world is the Dementors' attack.

Saving Dudley from Dementors

It is at this moment that Dudley, Harry's cousin, is under threat from the Dementors. When Harry uses his magical abilities to save Dudley, Fudge experiences a shift in perspective. The Dementors' attack is a serious threat to the community, and Harry's actions, although initially undercharge, demonstrate both his bravery and his ability to take decisive action in a critical situation.

Fudge, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the potential backlash from the Dementors' attack, realizes that punishing Harry for his previous underage magic, especially given that his actions were part of a larger, more significant context, would not serve the best interests of the community. Thus, Fudge decides to drop the charges against Harry.

Strategic Considerations and Political Factors

The decision to let Harry get away with blowing up Marge is a strategic move by Fudge. It serves multiple purposes:

Compromise with the Public: Fudge must maintain public support, especially in light of the rising threat from Voldemort's return. By not punishing Harry, he aligns himself with the public sentiment, which is protective of Harry. Employee Retention: As a key figure in the fight against Voldemort, Fudge recognizes the importance of keeping Harry on their side. By showing leniency, Fudge can maintain a favorable relationship with the boy who has become a symbol of hope and a crucial player in the war against evil. Political Manipulation: Fudge's decision is influenced by the political implications of the Dementor attack. By dropping the charges, he can maintain a positive public image, which is vital for his position.

Contrasting Fudge's Decisions in Other Contexts

It is important to note that Fudge's decision to drop the charges is somewhat at odds with his actions in other contexts. For example, two years later, in the Order of the Phoenix, Fudge's stance changes significantly. He becomes more paranoid and decides to banish Harry from Hogwarts, viewing him as a potential threat, especially when he believes that Voldemort has returned. Additionally, Fudge's actions are also influenced by political motives, such as his fear of losing his position of power.

Umbridge and Dumbledore's Conflict

The situation becomes even more complex when Umbridge, a loyal supporter of Fudge, frames Harry as an underage magic user. Fudge, fearing for his position and the rise of Dumbledore as a voice of support, almost succeeds in exiling Harry. However, as we know, Dumbledore ultimately intervenes and saves Harry, preventing his expulsion.

Conclusion

Harry Potter's credibility and loyalty are thus preserved by Fudge's decision. While the decision is primarily influenced by strategic and political considerations, it also highlights the importance of context in evaluating actions in the magical world. Fudge's leniency with Harry, though initially rooted in self-preservation, ultimately preserves Harry's character and position as a key figure in the fight against Voldemort.