Welcome to Harry Potter Theory. Today, we’re discussing Voldemort’s reign in the second wizarding war, Hogwarts, Hogwarts FIRST YEAR STUDENTS, and wands. 

Let’s dive in to it.

Voldemort’s regime during the second wizarding war really flipped the wizarding world on its axis. Where once there was peace, now there was heartbreak, separation and destruction. He had successfully taken over the ministry of magic, torn apart Diagon Alley, and EVEN managed to breach the walls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry- the world’s foremost magic school.

The school, which had previously been overseen by powerful wizard (and good guy, maybe?) Albus Dumbledore, was no longer under his protection after his untimely death. Dumbledore’s vacancy left a big hole in Hogwarts, and without his protection, it didn’t take long for Voldemort and the Death Eaters to waltz right in.

But the Death Eaters taking over Hogwarts certainly didn’t mean that classes would stop. Oh no. Class was still very much in session, just with a very…different set of rules and approach. 

With a double-agent Snape taking the Headmaster helm, most of the school staff remained in their usual postings. However, a Death Eater takeover did of course mean that a few new faces were introduced to the faculty, like Alecto and Amycus Carrow- a pure blood brother/sister combo that took over Muggle Studies and Defence Against the Dark Arts (respectively).

Ok Silas, we get it, class was still in session. What’s your point?

Well, school in session meant that new faces were still popping up at Hogwarts. That’s right, just like Harry Potter in his first year- new, bright young witches and wizards were walking through the doors of Hogwarts for the very first time. 

But, can you even begin to imagine how much different this experience would have been for these NEW first years? Harry was met with wonder, magic and excitement. These new first years must have been met with darkness, terror and uncertainty- entirely unsure of where the school stood admist Voldemort’s wizarding world takeover.

Why were students even sent?

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