Justice and Mercy

The moral dilemma of whether to kill Pettigrew or show mercy, and the consequences of Harry's choice.

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The desire for revenge

The Fury Sirius and Lupin's Need Sirius and Lupin want to kill Pettigrew for his betrayal. They have waited twelve years for justice. They are ready to kill him without hesitation. Harry's Conflict Harry initially wants revenge too. He has hated Black for months. But when he sees Pettigrew groveling, he hesitates. He thinks of what his father would want. The Decision Harry decides that killing Pettigrew is not the answer. He argues that his father wouldn't want them to become murderers. He insists on handing Pettigrew over to the Dementors.

The mercy saves a life

The Unforeseen Consequence The Escape Despite the mercy, Pettigrew escapes due to Lupin's transformation. He is now free to rejoin Voldemort. Harry worries that his mercy will lead to disaster. Dumbledore's Wisdom Dumbledore explains that Pettigrew now owes Harry a life debt. This may one day prove advantageous. He tells Harry that saving Pettigrew was a noble act. The Theme The theme of mercy over revenge is explored. Harry's choice to spare Pettigrew, even though it leads to danger, is shown to be morally right. The story suggests that justice tempered with mercy is the path of a true hero.

Shrieking Shack

Later, after Pettigrew escapes