Soul Mutilation

Voldemort's creation of Horcruxes demonstrates how Dark Magic can corrupt and destroy the soul, making him less human.

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The Horcrux Theory

The Dark Art The Explanation Albus Dumbledore explains that a Horcrux is an object containing a piece of a wizard's soul, created by committing murder. Voldemort has made multiple Horcruxes, splitting his soul into seven parts. The Corruption Creating Horcruxes deforms the soul and makes the wizard less human. Voldemort's appearance becomes snake-like, and his emotions are stunted. The Danger The Horcruxes are the key to Voldemort's immortality. They must be destroyed before he can be killed. This is Harry's mission.

The Destruction of the Ring

The Cost of Horcrux Hunting The Attempt Dumbledore finds and destroys Marvolo Gaunt's ring, a Horcrux. However, the ring's curse damages his hand and hastens his death. The Price Destroying a Horcrux is dangerous. Dumbledore's sacrifice shows the high cost of fighting Dark Magic. The Lesson Harry learns that the path to defeating Voldemort is fraught with danger. He must be prepared to pay a price.

late December, after learning the memory

referenced throughout, but Dumbledore's hand shows the cost