Extra Credit: Lupin

In past novels, Remus Lupin always tried to be Harry’s best friend and wingman.  When he met Harry in the third book, he believed he had found a replacement for his childhood best friend, James Potter. However, by the seventh book, Lupin still refuses to grow up.  In Book 7, Lupin tries to join Harry, Ron, and Hermione on their mysterious quest.  He knows that Dumbledore has left them a mission and he wants to help.  When Hermione questions him about his seemingly strained relationship with his wife, Tonks, he informs them that she is pregnant.  He assures them that Tonks and the baby will remain safe at her parents’ house and that leaving them is for their own good.  He regrets marrying Tonks and endangering her life, and is afraid to endanger the life of a small child he is bringing into the world.  It’s an understandable fear but one that he must confront – it is time for him to be a responsible adult.  He tries to convince Harry further saying,“ I’m sure James would have wanted me to stick with you.” But Harry knows how it feels to be abandoned and grow up parentless and shoots down Lupin’s suggestion immediately.  Luckily, Lupin learns from his mistake.  He makes the mature decision to stand by his family no matter what his condition may entail.  Later in the novel, he names Harry the godfather of his son, Teddy, proving to Harry that he is not a coward and that he became a better man.  And in the end, he gives his life to save the students of Hogwarts, fighting for the Order of the Phoenix.  He shows that he is brave beyond belief and he dies for a cause he knows is worth the fight.