Voldemort's Open War

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Voldemort's return leads to widespread terror, including attacks on Muggles and the Ministry's struggle to maintain order.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Other Minister's BriefingThe Other Minister's Briefing
The Muggle Prime Minister Learns the Truth The First Meeting Cornelius Fudge, the former Minister for Magic, visits the Muggle Prime Minister to inform him of Lord Voldemort's return. He explains that recent disasters—the Brockdale Bridge collapse, the hurricane in the West Country, and the murders of Amelia Bones and Emmeline Vance—were caused by Death Eaters. The New Minister Rufus Scrimgeour, the new Minister for Magic, meets with the Prime Minister, demanding increased security. He reveals that the Junior Minister Herbert Chorley is under the Imperius Curse, and that the Ministry is taking steps to protect the Muggle world. The Cold Reality The Prime Minister is overwhelmed by the reality of the wizarding war and the threat to Muggles. He feels powerless, but Scrimgeour insists on cooperation. This meeting sets the stage for the escalating conflict that will affect both worlds.
The Daily Prophet ReportsThe Daily Prophet Reports
The Public Learns of the War The Leak of the Prophecy The Daily Prophet reports on the disturbance at the Ministry, revealing that a prophecy about Harry Potter and Voldemort exists. The public begins to call Harry 'the Chosen One.' The Ministry tries to control the narrative, but rumors spread. Increased Attacks The newspaper constantly reports on dementor attacks, disappearances, and deaths. The wizarding community lives in fear, and parents withdraw their children from Hogwarts. The Ministry's ineffectiveness is criticized. The Ministry's Propaganda Rufus Scrimgeour uses the Prophet to promote his tough stance, but Harry sees through the propaganda. The paper also reports on the arrest of Stan Shunpike, a false Death Eater, highlighting the Ministry's desperation.
The Aftermath of Dumbledore's DeathThe Aftermath of Dumbledore's Death
The Fallout The Ministry's Response After Dumbledore's death, the Ministry of Magic takes charge of Hogwarts. Rufus Scrimgeour attempts to interrogate Harry about Dumbledore's final mission, but Harry refuses. The Ministry considers closing the school, but the teachers argue for its continuation. The Funeral Dumbledore's funeral is attended by many, including centaurs and merpeople. It is a somber occasion that marks the end of an era. Harry decides not to return to Hogwarts, choosing to hunt Horcruxes instead. The War Continues Voldemort's influence spreads, and the wizarding world faces an uncertain future. Harry, Ron, and Hermione prepare to leave the safety of the school to destroy the remaining Horcruxes and confront Voldemort.
early July, before the start of term
throughout the autumn, after the Ministry leak
late June, after the Battle of the Astronomy Tower