Dean Thomas: An Underrated Friend
Just like Lee Jordan and Kingsley Shacklebolt, Dean’s role shrunk during the adaptation from the books to the films. So in honor of Black History Month, I’m going to look at some of his fantastic attributes.
First of all, he is incredibly enthusiastic. He, just like Harry, came from a Muggle background and didn’t know anything about Quidditch. However, that didn’t stop him, and he soon got into the sport.
Plus, he is quite intelligent. He even guessed one of the mysteries about the Chamber of Secrets before Hermione.
But maybe you’ve got to be related to Slytherin, so Dumbledore couldn’t [open the Chamber],” began Dean Thomas” (Chamber of Secrets 152).
In addition, he is incredibly loyal and supported Harry when he competed in the Triwizard Tournament.
Dean Thomas, who was very good at drawing, had put up some impressive new banners, most of which depicted Harry zooming around the Horntail’s head on his Firebolt” (Goblet of Fire 365).
Well, it’s like Harry said, isn’t it?” said Dean. “If we’re going to be attacked, it won’t be risk-free” (Order of the Phoenix 259).
He was also loyal to Remus and defended him against Umbridge when he wasn’t there to defend himself.
If you mean Professor Lupin,” piped up Dean Thomas angrily, “he was the best we ever—” (Order of the Phoenix 259).
Finally, he demonstrated his bravery and courage by fighting, even at a disadvantage.
We’re fighting, aren’t we?” said Dean, taking out his fake Galleon. “The message said Harry was back, and we were going to fight! I’ll have to get a wand, though” (Deathly Hallows 598).
Although Dean Thomas wasn’t one of Harry’s best friends, he was incredibly loyal to him and others. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, much of his story was cut out and we did not get to see some his fantastic qualities. Dean is a loyal, brave, and strong character, and these admirable characteristics make him one of the more underrated and underappreciated characters in the series.
