The Price of Heroism

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Dumbledore's willing sacrifice and Harry's determination to face Voldemort alone highlight the theme of self-sacrifice for the greater good.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
Dumbledore's SacrificeDumbledore's Sacrifice
The Willing Victim The Plan Albus Dumbledore knows he is dying from the curse. He plans his own death to protect Severus Snape's cover and to remove himself as a target. The Act Dumbledore does not resist when Snape kills him. He accepts his fate with dignity. His sacrifice is a strategic move in the war against Voldemort. The Legacy Dumbledore's death inspires Harry to continue the fight. He shows that true heroism is about giving up one's life for others.
Harry's ResolveHarry's Resolve
The Determination The Decision Harry decides to leave Hogwarts and hunt Horcruxes alone. He is willing to risk his life to defeat Voldemort. The Promise Harry vows to finish what Dumbledore started. He is prepared to sacrifice his own happiness and safety for the greater good. The Hero's Path Harry's journey is one of selflessness. He is following in Dumbledore's footsteps, embracing the hero's burden.
late June, the night of his death
late June, after Dumbledore's funeral