Did Anyone at Hogwarts Support the Dark Lord During the Second Wizarding War?

The Rise of Lord Voldemort

During the initial stages of Lord Voldemort’s reign, the majority of his supporters were his cronies from Slytherin House. Tom Riddle, as he was known before adopting the moniker "Lord Voldemort," gathered a group of followers who were loyal to him. These individuals, including Draco Malfoy, Gregory Goyle, and Vincent Crabbe, were primarily those who were part of the Slytherin circle and shared his vision or found advantages in supporting him.

The Second Wizarding War: A New Dynamic

During the Second Wizarding War, however, the landscape changed significantly. The Slytherin faction was expelled from Hogwarts to prevent them from becoming a "5th column" and maintaining their support for Voldemort. This expulsion was a strategic decision to isolate Voldemort’s supporters and limit the number of potential allies he could count on within the school’s walls.

Despite the expulsion, several pivotal figures remained behind to carry out Voldemort’s bidding. Notably, Draco Malfoy and his two cronies, Crabbe and Goyle, remained at Hogwarts to perform tasks vital to the dark lord’s plan.

The Role of Draco Malfoy

Draco Malfoy, a prominent figure in Slytherin, played a crucial role during the Second Wizarding War. He was envisioned as a pawn in his parents' favor, as their lives were at stake if they did not support Voldemort. His loyalty to the dark lord was not motivated by personal conviction but rather by the fear of repercussions if he did not comply. Despite this, Draco found himself in a challenging position, torn between his loyalty to Voldemort and his sense of responsibility to protect his family.

The Obligation of Crabbe and Goyle

Crabbe and Goyle, who were raised alongside Draco in the Slytherin hierarchy, were primarily seen as enforcers who carried out orders from Draco. Their social status did not allow them to question or oppose Voldemort’s directives. These two loyal followers were often present to provide muscle and support for Draco, ensuring that his commands were carried out without hesitation. Their presence at Hogwarts was a manifestation of Voldemort’s strategy to maintain a loyal and obedient presence within the school grounds.

The Significance of the Room of Requirement

A significant aspect of their task in Hogwarts was the protection of a Horcrux. Voldemort had hidden a Horcrux in the Room of Requirement, and it was this object that Draco and his two cronies were tasked with safeguarding. The Room of Requirement, known for its ability to provide the user with whatever is needed, appeared to offer them a secure and hidden location to carry out their mission. This place acted as a safe haven, both physically and metaphorically, as it symbolized the element of secrecy and protection necessary for their actions.

Conclusion

During the Second Wizarding War, the dynamics of support for Lord Voldemort shifted. While the bulk of Slytherin students were removed from Hogwarts, a few remained to carry out crucial tasks. Draco Malfoy, driven by familial obligations, and his loyal cronies, Crabbe and Goyle, remained. Their continued presence was a strategic move by Voldemort, utilizing their loyalty and obedience to maintain control over Hogwarts. The use of the Room of Requirement showcased the dark lord's cunning in maintaining a safe and discreet base for his operations, even within the very walls of the school.