While Harry Potter is widely considered the unrefuted Chosen One based on Lord Voldemort's direct actions and the fulfillment of the prophecy, Neville Longbottom also fits the initial criteria of the prophecy, leading to a fascinating debate about who truly held the iconic title, especially given Neville's pivotal role in the final battle.
The Prophecy and Its Ambiguity
The concept of the "Chosen One" stems from a prophecy made by Sybill Trelawney to Albus Dumbledore, which foretold the birth of a wizard with the power to vanquish Lord Voldemort.
The Sybill Trelawney Prophecy
The crucial lines of the prophecy state:
"The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies..."
- Harry Potter was born on July 31st to Lily and James Potter, who had defied Voldemort three times.
- Neville Longbottom was born on July 30th to Alice and Frank Longbottom, highly respected Aurors who also bravely defied Voldemort three times.
This initial ambiguity meant that either boy could have grown up to become the Chosen One.
Voldemort's Fateful Choice
The critical turning point that designated Harry as the Chosen One was Voldemort's own decision. Believing Harry to be the greater threat, partly due to his half-blood status mirroring Voldemort's own, the Dark Lord chose to attack the Potters. When Voldemort attempted to kill infant Harry:
- Lily Potter's sacrifice provided powerful magical protection.
- The Killing Curse rebounded, seemingly destroying Voldemort.
- Harry was left with a lightning-bolt scar and, unbeknownst to anyone, a fragment of Voldemort's soul, making him an accidental Horcrux.
This act irrevocably marked Harry as Voldemort's destined rival, making him "The Boy Who Lived" and setting him on the path to fulfill the prophecy. It was Voldemort's choice, not Harry's birth, that solidified his status as the Chosen One.
Harry Potter: The Marked Chosen One
Harry's journey from an orphaned infant to the defeater of the Dark Lord consistently aligns with the prophecy's unfolding.
Direct Confrontation and Destiny
- The Scar: Harry's iconic scar was not just a physical mark but a direct link to Voldemort, allowing him unique insights and a constant connection to his adversary.
- Targeted by Voldemort: Throughout his life, Harry was the primary target of Voldemort's schemes, from his attempts to regain a body to the final confrontation.
- Unique Abilities: His connection to Voldemort often granted him abilities, such as Parseltongue, and an understanding of Voldemort's mind.
Fulfillment of the Prophecy
Harry ultimately faced Voldemort multiple times, culminating in the Battle of Hogwarts. Through his bravery, the support of his friends, and his understanding of wand lore and Horcruxes, Harry was the one who directly defeated Lord Voldemort, fulfilling the prophecy's promise that "neither can live while the other survives." His self-sacrifice in the Forbidden Forest and subsequent return further cemented his role.
Neville Longbottom: The Unsung Hero and Alternate Chosen One
While Harry was the designated Chosen One, Neville's journey and crucial actions highlight his own significant claim to a heroic title, and some fans argue he represents an alternate interpretation of the Chosen One.
Shared Prophetic Criteria
Neville's parents, Alice and Frank Longbottom, were revered Aurors who defied Voldemort on three occasions, just like the Potters. They were tortured into insanity by Bellatrix Lestrange for their loyalty to the Order of the Phoenix, demonstrating the profound courage and sacrifice that marked their family. Had Voldemort chosen to attack the Longbottoms instead of the Potters, Neville would have become the Boy Who Lived.
Pivotal Role in the Final Victory
Neville's heroism shone brightly, particularly in the later stages of the wizarding war.
- Leader of Dumbledore's Army: During Harry, Ron, and Hermione's absence, Neville fearlessly led Dumbledore's Army, defying the Carrow siblings and continuing the fight against Voldemort's regime at Hogwarts.
- Destroyer of Nagini: His most critical act occurred during the Battle of Hogwarts when he drew the Sword of Gryffindor from the Sorting Hat and used it to slay Nagini, Voldemort's final Horcrux. This act directly made Voldemort mortal and vulnerable, paving the way for Harry's ultimate victory. The final Deathly Hallows film, in particular, heavily highlights a heroic Neville, revitalizing the debate regarding which boy is better suited for the iconic title.
A Different Kind of Bravery
Neville's arc is one of immense personal growth, evolving from a timid, forgetful boy into a courageous and steadfast leader. His heroism is a testament to inner strength and unwavering loyalty, proving that courage can be found in unexpected places.
Harry vs. Neville: A Comparison of Roles
| Aspect | Harry Potter | Neville Longbottom |
|---|---|---|
| Prophecy Fit | Met initial criteria; chosen by Voldemort's attack | Met initial criteria; could have been chosen by Voldemort |
| Role in Narrative | The central protagonist, direct adversary of Voldemort | A crucial supporting hero, vital to the final victory |
| Marked by Voldemort | Yes, with the scar (accidental Horcrux) | No |
| Defeated Voldemort | Yes, directly and definitively in the final duel | Played a crucial role by destroying Nagini (last Horcrux), enabling Voldemort's defeat |
| Symbolic Impact | "The Boy Who Lived," the ultimate vanquisher of the Dark Lord | Symbol of defiance, courage, and the power of unity; killed the last Horcrux |
| Fate | Auror, Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement (briefly) | Professor of Herbology at Hogwarts |
Conclusion: The Definitive Chosen One (with Essential Allies)
Ultimately, Harry Potter is the unrefuted Chosen One due to Lord Voldemort's specific choice and the indelible mark left upon him. This act set Harry on a unique path of destiny to confront and defeat the Dark Lord. However, Neville Longbottom's equally valid prophetic background and his indispensable, courageous actions — especially in destroying Nagini, Voldemort's final Horcrux — undeniably cement his status as a critical co-hero and a compelling 'alternative' Chosen One, whose heroism became particularly prominent in later adaptations. The story of the Chosen One is ultimately a testament not just to one individual, but to the collective bravery and sacrifice of many.
