Podcast Question of the Week – Episode 105

Just before one of the most beloved quotes in the series, there is a curious moment which is the focus of this week’s Podcast Question of the Week.

In the final scene of the chapter, we see the confrontation between the Ministry and Dumbledore. Once Fudge orders Dawlish & Shacklebolt to seize Dumbledore, a flash of silver light flitters around the room, and they are knocked out cold. As Harry, McGonagall, and Marietta wake up, the text notes that “Fawkes the phoenix soared in wide circles above them, singing softly.” The four converse, Dumbledore takes hold of Fawkes’s tail feather, and they are off. The second they are gone – the rest awake. What kept them asleep? Was it the jinx? The presence of Dumbledore, as the spellcaster? Or even perhaps Fawkes’s song? Or all of them combined?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and tune in next week to see if your ideas are discussed on the show!