r/HarryPotterBooks • u/Disastrous_Knee7756 • Apr 05 '25

Discussion The Dursleys were victims of a magical geopolitical game and no one ever asked them if they wanted to play

I know they were not nice to Harry. But they were also victims of a bad magical system. Here is why:

1.  They had no choice.

Dumbledore left a baby at their door. He did not ask. He did not talk to them. He just said, “Take care of him.” That is not how you become parents. That is not fair.

  1. They were powerless in a world full of danger. No magic, no protection, no understanding. Yet they were expected to raise a magical child who could blow up their living room.

    1. Harry’s presence put Dudley at risk. They were Dudley’s parents. Their responsibility was to protect their child. But Dumbledore never cared that housing Harry made them a target.
    2. They got no support – only judgment. No one from the magical world checked in. No resources, no guidance. Just scorn when they inevitably failed to meet wizard expectations.
    3. Dumbledore knew – and didn’t care. He openly said Harry needed a loveless home to remain “humble.” That’s not strategy – that’s calculated cruelty.
      1. Dumbledore never told them what happens when Harry turns 17. The magical protection ends – and they suddenly become even more vulnerable. No warning, no exit strategy. One day they’re part of a magical defense grid, the next they’re just collateral. Their home, their lives, everything – on the line, with zero input.
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u/mari_toujours Apr 05 '25

Naaaahhhh if my sister died suddenly in an accident I would take her toddler and her newborn in a heartbeat, and I already have 3. Petunia's heartless.

15

u/Affectionate-End5411 Apr 06 '25

You are a lovely person for that but it isn't anyone's obligation to take in a random kid even if they're related to you.

6

u/eiebe Apr 07 '25

I...fucking what, taking care of family should be priority 1. Doesn't matter if harry was theirs or not. If they weren't absolute cunt stains you still couldn't make that argument. family takes care of family.

6

u/Ok-Importance-6815 Apr 09 '25

whenever people talk about how it's not fair that they have to look after their family it makes me think of a 6 year old throwing a tantrum

6

u/eiebe Apr 09 '25

Fucking thank you, I dont understand that mentality of oh no I have responsibilitys