The Weasley family is considered "blood traitors" within the wizarding world because, despite being a pure-blood family themselves, they openly reject the notion of pure-blood supremacy and instead embrace Muggles and Muggle-born witches and wizards.
Understanding the Term "Blood Traitor"
In the wizarding community, particularly among certain prejudiced pure-blood families, the term "blood traitor" is a derogatory label. It is applied to pure-blood individuals or families who do not uphold the ideology of blood purity, which posits that pure-blood wizards are superior to others, especially those with Muggle heritage.
Pure-blood supremacists believe that associating with Muggles or Muggle-borns "taints" a pure-blood's lineage and is a betrayal of their magical heritage. Blood traitors are seen as disloyal to their own kind and are often ostracized or mocked by families who adhere strictly to the blood purity doctrine, such as the Malfoys and the Blacks.
The Weasleys' "Blood Traitor" Status
The Weasley family's status as "blood traitors" stems directly from their core values and actions, which stand in stark contrast to the beliefs of pure-blood supremacists. They are known for not supporting the notion of blood purity and for actively associating with Muggles and Muggle-borns.
Key reasons for their label include:
- Rejection of Blood Purity: The Weasleys firmly believe that magical ability and character are not determined by blood status. They see no inherent superiority in being pure-blood.
- Friendship with Muggle-borns: They openly welcome and befriend Muggle-born witches and wizards, treating them with equal respect and warmth. A prime example is Hermione Granger, who becomes an integral part of their family.
- Fondness for Muggles: Members of the Weasley family, particularly Arthur Weasley, show a genuine interest in and admiration for the Muggle world and its inventions. This is seen as particularly scandalous by extreme pure-bloods.
- Support for Non-Pure-Blood Rights: They actively advocate for fair treatment and equality for all magical beings, regardless of their blood status, which goes against the discriminatory views of blood purists.
- Association with "Undesirables": Their close friendships with families and individuals considered "undesirable" by pure-blood purists, such as the Longbottoms and Harry Potter himself (a half-blood), further solidify their "blood traitor" image.
Consequences of the Label
Being branded "blood traitors" has several implications for the Weasley family:
- Social Ostracization: Families like the Malfoys look down upon them, often making snide remarks about their financial status (which is often linked to their perceived lack of "pure-blood ambition") and their associations.
- Political Disadvantage: Their views put them at odds with pure-blood controlled institutions and political factions, though this does not deter them from their principles.
- Personal Attacks: They are sometimes targets of insults and prejudiced comments from those who subscribe to blood purity.
Despite the negative label, the Weasleys remain proud of their values, showcasing that integrity and kindness are more important than antiquated notions of blood status.
| Aspect | Pure-Blood Supremacist View | Weasley Family View |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Purity | Essential for magical superiority | Irrelevant; character matters more |
| Muggle-borns | Inferior, "tainted" | Equal, valuable members of society |
| Muggles | Dangerous, to be avoided/controlled | Interesting, deserving of respect |
| Association | Only with pure-bloods | With anyone, regardless of blood |
