Harry Potter: What Would Have Happened If Harry Didn’t Kill the Basilisk in Chamber of Secrets?

Throughout the pages of J.K. Rowling's enchanting magical world, the Basilisk plays a crucial role, particularly in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This article explores the consequences if Harry had not defeated the Basilisk and how the story may have unfolded differently. The following scenarios envision a world where the deadly creature remained alive and the character of Tom Riddle continued to loom as a formidable threat.

Continued Threat

As a deadly beast, the Basilisk would have continued to pose a significant threat within the Chamber of Secrets. If left unchecked, it could have attacked additional students and staff at Hogwarts, creating an ongoing peril that would have jeopardized the safety of the school's inhabitants. The survival of the Basilisk would have perpetuated the risk of more students being harmed, as the creature's poisonous fangs and venom could have caused fatal injuries.

Capture by Dumbledore or the Ministry

Another plausible scenario involves the intervention of powerful wizards, such as Albus Dumbledore or representatives from the Ministry of Magic. These individuals might have attempted to capture or contain the Basilisk to prevent further malevolent acts. The quest to subdue the creature would have required immense magical skill and knowledge, potentially leading to a high-stakes battle within the Chamber of Secrets.

Basilisk’s Role in the Chamber

The Basilisk was a central element in Tom Riddle's sinister plan to purge Hogwarts of Muggle-born students. Its continued presence would have allowed Riddle's influence to remain potent, as it would have served as a formidable means to carry out his dark intentions. The survival of the Basilisk would have kept the Chamber of Secrets active, posing an ongoing threat to the school's security and stability.

Potential for Future Conflict

The existence of a live Basilisk would have introduced a serious risk of future conflicts within the story. The powerful creature could have been exploited by dark wizards or even used by other characters with nefarious motives. This could have led to a resurgence of dark magic within the school, creating a new era of tension and danger for the students and teachers at Hogwarts.

In summary, if Harry had not ended the Basilisk's life, it would have remained a significant threat, influencing the safety of Hogwarts and the lives of its students. The story would have taken a different turn with the Basilisk as an ever-present menace, potentially reshaping the adventures and challenges faced by Harry and his friends in their journey through the wizarding world.

An Alternate Scenario

In a more personal and dramatic turn of events, imagine a moment of desperation where Harry, in a last ditch effort, throws Tom Riddle's diary at the Basilisk with a fang splintering the diary and killing the Dark Lord's horcrux. Even as Fawkes blinded the basilisk, it continued to listen to the movements of Ginny, revealing a deeper, more animated form of the serpent.

Harry and Ginny, now trapped in the winding sewers, navigate with cautious movements, dodging the deadly gaze of the enraged Basilisk. The story takes a gorgeously magical turn as Fawkes remains a steadfast ally, distracting the Basilisk long enough for Ginny to grab the Sorting Hat. Together, the duo uses this time to think strategically and overcome the obstacles.

The path remains blocked, and the basilisk, enraged further by its wounds, pursues the group. Ginny uses an opportunity to trick the Basilisk into attacking the cave walls, creating a temporary opening towards her brother, and their Obliviated Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, Lockhart. The cave continues to crumble, overcoming the basilisk's threats.

Harry, grabbing the Sorting Hat, extracts the Sword of Gryffindor. A fierce battle ensues with the sword stuck in the beast's mouth, further infuriating the basilisk. As the group races towards the entrance of the chamber, Fawkes leads the way, risking its life for their safety. Rocks keep falling as they finally reach the chamber's entrance, but the basilisk is unable to release itself due to the cave-in. However, the basilisk, with its immense strength, pushes through the door, attacking them with renewed vigor. Stunned, Harry uses a powerful spell to protect them, while McGonagall, Flitwick, and Professor McGonagall take aim, using the bludgers and a combination spell. Even Peeves and the House Elves, wielding potions, aid in the final assault. The basilisk, now completely encircled, sustains a fatal blow with the Sword of Gryffindor, granting Harry, Ron, and Ginny their hard-fought victory.

Conclusion

The final scene sees Harry, Ron, and Ginny in the medical ward, their struggles behind them. Harry commends Ginny for her bravery and quick thinking, reflecting on the narrow escape. Ginny, with a newfound sense of confidence and self-assurance, declares that anything is possible with nerve, and their bond grows stronger. This dynamic shift in their relationship showcases the growth and courage of these young wizards in the face of unimaginable danger.