Why Neville Longbottom Is the Most Overrated Character in Harry Potter

While Neville brings much to the story, this is a highly overrated view of the character and gives him way more credit than he deserves.

Let me be clear, I'm not saying that Neville is a bad character. On the contrary, I think he's one of the most well-written and developed characters in the entire series. His journey from a bumbling, forgetful boy to a courageous and confident young adult is inspiring. Not to mention the respect he earns due to his unwavering loyalty to his friends; he really is a true Gryffindor.

But when it comes to the question of whether Neville would have been a better-chosen one than Harry, I have to disagree.

Neville was never the chosen one, and that's the whole point. The prophecy made it clear that either Harry or Voldemort would have to die at the hands of the other, and it was Harry who fulfilled that role in the end. Neville could have been the chosen one (according to the prophecy), there is no doubt, but ultimately he wasn't.

Some fans argue that Neville would have been a better chosen one because he was more humble and less arrogant than Harry. While that may be true, it's also important to remember that Harry had many other qualities that made him an excellent chosen one.

He was brave, resourceful, a natural leader, and willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. He also had a natural talent for magic that helped him in many situations.

It's worth noting that Neville had different strengths than Harry. While Harry was skilled in defence against the dark arts and had a talent for flying, Neville was better at herbology and had a deep connection to plants. Of course, these different strengths are valuable in their own way. Still, it's hard to believe Neville would have defeated Voldemort better than Harry.

For instance, I can't see Neville taking on a troll as Harry did in his first year or even killing the basilisk in their second. He may be an accomplished Wizard in his own right, but it took him a long time to become the kind of heroic leader that came to Harry almost effortlessly.

It's okay to appreciate Neville for who he is, a fine supporting character. He is still great, with his own unique strengths and weaknesses, and he was still a vital part of defeating Voldemort.

But let's remember that Harry was the chosen one for a good reason. Neville's role in the story is still important but in a much different way.