Gryffindor Moments from Slytherins
There are so many qualities that make a good Gryffindor, including bravery, loyalty, and chivalry. Yet these attributes are not just Gryffindor specific. There are several moments throughout the series where Slytherins demonstrated the same traits.
The controversial Severus Snape was initially presented as a bully who lorded his superior status over his students. He constantly humiliated and verbally abused the Gryffindors, knowing the potential damage his actions could cause.
However, Snape was more than just a terrible tormentor; he was brave and loyal, too. He was strong enough to break away from Voldemort and joined the Order’s fight against him. Despite his motivations, he was instrumental in taking down Voldemort’s oppressive regime.
One of them was a Slytherin and he was probably the bravest man I ever knew” (Deathly Hallows 758).
Another Slytherin who proved his bravery and loyalty was Horace Slughorn. He was a student of Slytherin House before becoming its Head. He had his cowardly moments when he tried to run away from the fight.
What a to-do! I’m not at all sure whether this is wise, Minerva. He is bound to find a way in, you know, and anyone who has tried to delay him will be in most grievous peril” (Deathly Hallows 601).
However, he overcame his fears before going on to fight Voldemort himself.
Voldemort was now dueling McGonagall, Slughorn, and Kingsley all at once” (Deathly Hallows 735).
Andromeda Tonks was another fearless Slytherin. Despite her brief appearance in the series, we know a bit about her. She was the sister of Narcissa Malfoy and Bellatrix Lestrange, both of whom fought on Voldemort’s side for some time. Presumably, all three were raised with the same prejudices and beliefs, yet Andromeda was the only one who didn’t follow those ideals. She married a Muggle-born and had Nymphadora Tonks.
Both husband and wife were allies of the Order of the Phoenix and protected Harry and Hagrid in the final book. Unfortunately, they suffered the consequences of their actions when Voldemort’s ministry attempted to torture information out of them. They must have known what might happen to them, but they courageously chose to protect and help Harry in his fight against Voldemort.
Andromeda’s sister, Narcissa Malfoy, had her faults, but she, too, saved Harry’s life. She lied to Voldemort and his Death Eaters when she proclaimed Harry dead.
Narcissa knew that the only way she would be permitted to enter Hogwarts, and find her son, was as part of the conquering army. She no longer cared whether Voldemort won” (Deathly Hallows 726.)
Despite her intentions, she protected Harry, knowing her potential punishment had she been caught in the lie. Her fib led to the downfall of the man she had once pledged her loyalty to.
What do you think of these brave Slytherins? Are there any others you would include to my list? Let us know in the comments!
