Dobby's Sock!

         When I first began reading the Harry Potter series, I was captivated during book two with the whole idea of Dobby, and his interesting storyline. Here was this little creature that had so much magical power, yet was enslaved by a Wizarding Family. I remember loving Dobby’s innocence in book four once he returns. He made such an impact on me when he attempted to help his hero, Harry Potter. I also loved how he was a “free elf” who wanted a pay, but he still loved to work.

         By the time the 7^th book rolled around Dobby was one of my favorite characters, and I was completely attached to him. I couldn’t imagine anything happening to my favorite little guy, because he was just so innocent of a character. In the series, there were far more important characters whose lives could be compromised, but not my Dobby!

         I remember reading about Hedwig’s death, and it was only a blip on my emotional radar. I was sad of course, that owl was part of his childhood, but as far as I was concerned he was more or less disposable. Unlike Dobby, Hedwig would sometimes turn up her beak at Harry. My favorite house-elf on the other hand always embodied nothing but pure love for the main character of the series.

         When Dobby appeared in the 7^th book, apparating into the dungeon of Malfoy Manor, I was ecstatic! Here was my little guy to save the day, as always! He came in, made quite the impression on the poor captives, and saved four of their lives. I was so happy that he was okay, and when he came back for the trio, I knew he was the only elf that could have saved the day.

         Then the worst thing possible happened. Bellatrix got lucky, and Dobby died in Harry’s arms, uttering the cutest last words ever. The fall-out from this death was intense. Not only was I as a reader, completely depressed, but also Dobby’s death is basically the climax of this novel. In his grief, Harry discovers the secret of the elder wand. At Malfoy Manor, the trio also discovers that a horcrux is in Bellatrix’s vault at Gringotts. They are also able to hatch a plan with a goblin to retrieve the horcrux because Dobby saved the goblin’s life as well.

         The effects of my favorite characters death did his life justice. Dobby worked hard throughout the novels to protect and help Harry. Ultimately his death did just that.