Why Hermione’s S.P.E.W. Subplot Was Totally Cut From Harry Potter Movies

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In the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, one of Hermione Granger’s significant subplots was omitted in the films, and I believe this was an appropriate choice. There were numerous minor storylines from the books that didn’t make it to the silver screen, leaving many fans disappointed. Examples include the absence of Peeves the Poltergeist, a crucial scene at St. Mungo’s Hospital, and a significant portion of Barty Crouch Jr.’s background, all of which sparked debates among viewers.

In a similar vein, when it comes to Hermione’s subplot that unfolded after she discovered the truth about house elves, some might argue its absence was justified. Initially, her knowledge of house elves was limited to what Harry had told her about Dobby. However, as she delved deeper into their world, her growing understanding of their mistreatment at the hands of wizards led to her increasing disapproval, despite the fact that many elves seemed content with their circumstances.

Hermione Wanted To Liberate House Elves By Running S.P.E.W.

She Fought, Mostly Alone, For Elves’ Rights

During her third year at Hogwarts before the Quidditch World Cup, Hermione observed the cruel handling of house elves by wizards, specifically Barty Crouch. This incident sparked a resolve within Hermione to make a difference for these enslaved creatures. In response, she founded S.P.E.W., or the Society for the Advancement of Elf Rights. However, her efforts were met with indifference from most wizards and even the house elves themselves. Wizards considered the services of the elves as an inherent part of their lifestyle, and the house elves themselves had accepted their circumstances as the norm.

In her upbringing outside the magical world, Hermione perceived Muggles differently and considered house-elves as oppressed. Many students who joined S.P.E.W., such as Neville Longbottom, did so more to appease Hermione than out of genuine conviction in her cause. Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and others reluctantly joined, while the majority saw it as a jest rather than a serious matter. Moreover, Hermione was taken aback to discover that house-elves were employed at Hogwarts.

At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Witchcraft, both Dobby and Winky, who was Mr. Crouch’s elf, were among the elf employees. Dobby worked there for a minimal wage, while Winky and other elves disliked the notion of getting paid or gaining their freedom. Hermione, in her kind-heartedness, began making clothes to leave around for enslaved house elves to find. Though her early attempts were unsuccessful, Hermione continued her efforts and eventually secured a position at the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures within the Ministry of Magic.

It Was A Good Thing That The Subplot Was Cut

There Was Already A Lot Going On In The Films

In an ideal scenario, all elements from the Harry Potter books would have been incorporated into the films. Regrettably, the movies, each lasting approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, couldn’t accommodate such extensive content from the novels. The S.P.E.W subplot, which emphasizes Hermione’s kindness and illustrates the imperfections of the wizarding world, is a significant aspect but doesn’t contribute significantly to the main narrative, making it easier to omit.

There’s a possibility that the plotline of S.P.E.W. might be incorporated into the forthcoming Harry Potter series on HBO Max, given its extended runtime compared to the movies, which were packed with content. I believe that elements such as deeper exploration of Ginny’s character, Mad-Eye Moody’s demise, and the backstory of Barty Crouch Jr., could have been more effectively incorporated instead of S.P.E.W. in the movies.

It’s particularly relevant given that the narrative commences right before Voldemort makes his return. In the concluding films, there’s such an emphasis on the danger posed by Voldemort and the Death Eaters that minor aspects like S.P.E.W., unfortunately, didn’t get much screen time.

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2025-05-21 23:31