Is Ron a good wizard?

[Kingsley]

After being wandless for his whole 2nd year--how good is Ron's skills--
As far as the trio goes--Harry had the DADA down, while Hermione had pretty much everything that you could read memorized

Where does Ron fall--even Neville has herbology
Was the chess thing the first year just a false setup to guve us hope for our favorite Weasley just to have JKR never set him up with any other talents besides being great at Divination :rolleyes:

[Tinkerbell]

Now Kings hun, I know you are only throwing this open as a bit of speculation, as like me you just KNOW that our Ron is a good guy, right.... right???!!!

I can see your reasoning here tho, but I happen to think that Divination is exactly what our Ron is gonna excel at in the future (excuss the pun...), and that this ability is something that will either save Harry's life at a crucial moment, or at the very least be of some use to him during the final battle we are sure to see in Book 7.

[Kingsley]

Ok Tink I am only baiting the discussion so hear me out--this goes along with some other theories that have been floating around so i will put it together

Ron's divination skills along with his chess skills are what helps the trio out--this maybe a bit of speculation but

I think Ron is an average wizard but his heart and beliefs are where things get interesting-
-the chess in book one
--the wand being broken in book two--of course it was an accident but Ron didnt fix it--
in book 3 Ron never dropped Scabbers--he mistakenly held on and then Sirius as a dog dragged both of them to the shack
4--Ron showed Harry what it was like to be alone and reminded Harry that friends are needed(especially for the upcoming war)
5--Ok this is a huge spec but--Ron just happened to be the only one to become out of commission by the brain right? if he didnt he could have been killed

I think that Ron's power is more of a domino effect--his actions and beliefs make things fall into place--his whole persona is a chess player and his actions help out events, into the future

[Hermione]

I agree, Ron's strength is not his intellect or supreme magical skills, but his loyality and his personality. This is not to say his skills are mediocre, he was made prefect and he did manage to become the Keeper. I can't wait to see how many OWLs he gets.

I think this is going to be a major contribution in the future, his willingness to stick it out with Harry, even when things looks glum.

Remember all these times Ron never gave up?
1. At being Gryffindor's keeper.
2. Divination- true he faked his way through, but he didn't quit.
3. On his idea that Snape is pure evil- God bless Ron!

[Atticus]

I think that Divination is certainly a potential, but I have different reasons from everyone else. Ron makes jokes. Ron's jokes always come true. I have had discussion about this before, and I need to go back and find my proof. But roll it around in your head a bit and I think you'll find its usually true.

atticus

[Kingsley]

Well thats the point actually--I think that Ron's jokes are form his dormant seer instincts--add that with his strategic skills--and he is a great part of the trio
For example--Ron never believed Lockhart in CoS
In book 2 at the end of the chapter named Professor Lockhart, Ron replied-- the things he says he done--already showing he doubted Lockhart's integrity
I am sure at the end of Chamber, Ron was not expecting Lockhart to be a help when they confronted him to help find Ginny :cool:

[Alz]

Ron seem's to transend any kind of strong skill in anything - but yet seems capable of anything once he applies himself - case and point Quidditch ...
Ron is just stumbling through Hogwarts like his twin brothers - I think he is either going to die hence why he has no real skills - leave no work for JKR to say what he grew up to be ... or his true skills are yet to be discovered - like a late bloomer?
I think he is like Harry - he stumbles through school never really excelling in anything - but still gets through with the help of the brains of the outfit - Hermione ...

[Nagini]

I agree, Ron's strength is not his intellect or supreme magical skills, but his loyality and his personality. This is not to say his skills are mediocre, he was made prefect and he did manage to become the Keeper. I can't wait to see how many OWLs he gets.

I think this is going to be a major contribution in the future, his willingness to stick it out with Harry, even when things looks glum.

Remember all these times Ron never gave up?
1. At being Gryffindor's keeper.
2. Divination- true he faked his way through, but he didn't quit.
3. On his idea that Snape is pure evil- God bless Ron!

Well since if I just put "I agree" it would be considered spam I'll go into it a bit further. :D But I do agree with what you have said here Meredith. I once did a write up on Ron's character and found that although he doesn't seem to have a subject that he excels in, I dont recall any grades being worse than Harry's except when it comes to DADA.

Ron had qualities that lie outside of magical ability such as the things you mentioned like his loyalty to his friends and even Scabbers until he found out what he was. He constantly cracks jokes which make me laugh out loud and is impulsive.

I am unsure about Ron being a seer, yes it would make him good at a subject. But if he was a seer I can picture him rejecting it. Ron sees Trelawney as a fake and phoney and he would perceive himself as that and would think everyone else would too. Ron cares what others think of him, he knows people know he is poor and it bothers him and makes him want to improve himself. If he was a seer, I think it would be time for Harry to be the one to lean on for a change in the friendship but since the book is all about Harry, I cannot see that happening.

[Boing]

I think Ron is a fine wizard. I don't think he's necessarily the best or the worst - just your average wizard. His intuition and loyalty are what set him apart.

What's interesting is that he always has those comments about being scared, wanting to turn back, etc. (Can we panic now?!), but when it comes right down to it, he's right there with everyone else. He is willing to sacrifice himself for Harry and Hermione, which I think is quite telling as well . . .

As much as he protests, he has never backed down from a challenge set before him . . .

[Tinkerbell]

I once did a write up on Ron's character and found that although he doesn't seem to have a subject that he excels in, I dont recall any grades being worse than Harry's except when it comes to DADA.

Ron had qualities that lie outside of magical ability such as the things you mentioned like his loyalty to his friends and even Scabbers until he found out what he was. He constantly cracks jokes which make me laugh out loud and is impulsive.



Gini, have you posted this write up in the Articles section, as I for one would be really interested to read your take on this!!

I like the bit you say about his qualities being outside that of magic - that is why I often think that Ron could be a strong contender for the HBP in that he is a supporter and champion of the Muggles!!

[Alz]

You know I dont think he is that a great wizard on relfection.
Overall he stumbles through school with Harry - the difference is that Harry has flashes of greatness with magic - Ron have never showed himself to be that great a wizard.
He is capable enough and will make a wizard - but is he a good wizard - not really.
He isnt a terrible wizard he just is average and has to work to be that - he isnt a natural like Hermione.

[kaz]

He is capable enough and will make a wizard - but is he a good wizard - not really.
He isnt a terrible wizard he just is average and has to work to be that - he isnt a natural like Hermione.

Harry isn't a natural wizard either- he has alot of help from Hermione and Ron and also the DADA teacher at the time- well, apart from Lockhart and Umbridge! He has many lessons with Lupin to help him produce a patronus; Hermione and Ron helped him prefect spells for the summoning charm to get his firebolt into the arena in GoF, etc...so I think if Ron had a bit of assistance he would be a great wizard too!

I think Ron's main problem is that he is a bit of a klutz and doesn't think before he acts and the only time I can recall him being down right nasty is when it comes to Malfoy and his groupies. He had differences with Harry but that was over being jealous where he let his feelings rule.

So yes, I think he is a good wizard...he has alot of potential but not much belief in himself!

[Haley's Comet]

Kingsley, you really come up with some great threads! Is Ron a good wizard?
Well, I'll tell you, every time Ron Weasley has a wand in his hand and starts waving that thing about, your's truly (me) sits on the other side of the TV flinching and gnashing teeth...not wanting to look, but I know I have to. For all his faults, I really like Ron.


"I'm Your Huckleberry."

[Alz]

Harry isn't a natural wizard either- he has alot of help from Hermione and Ron and also the DADA teacher at the time- well, apart from Lockhart and Umbridge! He has many lessons with Lupin to help him produce a patronus; Hermione and Ron helped him prefect spells for the summoning charm to get his firebolt into the arena in GoF, etc...so I think if Ron had a bit of assistance he would be a great wizard too!

No arguments from me on Harry as well - he isnt a strong natural Wizard - kinda strange considering the faith in him - he edges it over Ron based only on the faith others show him and well - the powers left inside him post Voldemort attack.

Ron, I still dont think he is a really strong Wizard - but then again neither were the twins - so I guess Ron will find his calling like his brothers and will go on to become strong in the field he chooses - well unless he dies ;)

[Weasleyfanforever]

I don't know, we know that Ron isn't the calibur of wizard that Hermione is, but he is nowhere as near as horrible as Neville is either. I think part of it is, truth be told, he is a slacker. Both Harry and Ron are more than willing to blow off their work if they even have the slightest bit of an excuse. I think if he really tried and worked at it, he could be better than he is, it's just that he takes his magical abilities for granted.

[kashlie]

I believe Ron will have a life changing moment. Something will trigger the powerful wizard inside him, and while he will never be as powerful as Harry (poor ickle Ronniekins), he will be great. He has fumbled through life long enough, and it is time for him to grow up. I think the moment will come when he realises how he feels about that special woman in his life. His feelings for her, his thoughts on school, family and his future, will all fall into place, and his wand will no longer be a useless piece of wood, but a great and powerful weapon against evil.

I have a lot of faith in Ron, and I believe JKR does too, so whether he dies or not, he will be a good wizard. (I am going to go out on a limb here and say he will go through Wizard Puberty :) )

[Athena]

Ron (and Harry) aren't the best students -- like Hermione. But that doesn't necessarily mean they don't have the talent to excel. I agree with WFF, in that Ron slacks off on his subjects, but when he finds something he enjoys (like chess and Quidditch) he puts his all into doing well.

As for being a good wizard? Yea I think he will be/is a good wizard. Nothing spectacular, but good.

[Sir Cadogan]

I don't agree with those of you that say, "Oh well, yeah, Ron ... you know, he's going to be okay, nothing spectacular though."
On the contrary, I expect Ron to become truly spectacular, but on a different field than Harry or Hermione. His competence at chess has already been proved, and I don't think JKR would build on his clown qualities until the end. He does have a good sense of humour, but also a strong moral compass (remember him helping fight for Buckbeak's case) and a good deal of determination once he's seen something is important.
Go, Ron, go! :D

[Alz]

I don't know, we know that Ron isn't the calibur of wizard that Hermione is, but he is nowhere as near as horrible as Neville is either.
You know you will die by the quote!
if the question is 'Is Neville really aweful at magic' - I would say thet exact opposite.
I think that once his parents regain their mental state you will also see a transformed Neville ;)

I dont think the debate was would Ron ever be good at anything - I think it can be generally accepted he does have skills - but the question was is he a good wizard?
I think if you put it into context woth others around him - then the answer has to be no.
Is he a talentless Wizard - also answer is no - he is just plain - he hasnt done anything to support him being great in magic - in fact puking up slugs comes to mind here ....
I dont think we have seen any real flashes of magical aptitude in the guy just yet ... i sress the yet - he could be a late bloomer :D

[Blanche A. McFusty]

I think Ron is a very good wizard. <ducks>

Ron is content to appear lacksadasical, but any time he has truly needed to show his skills or provide insight he has always come through. I'm trying to think of a time when he failed and I cannot. Ron had that bum wand in COS, but he comes through all of the other times.

In fact, in the very first book, when we are introduced to Ron he manages to successfully induce the leviosa spell during the bout with the troll even though he wasn't able to produce in class. Under pressure Ron can perform.

I also find it interesting that when Malfoy provokes Harry into accepting the midnight duel Ron immediately counts himself as Harry's second. He says that that means he will take over if Harry dies in the encounter. Harry is a great wizard. Ron doesn't even hesitate in his offer. Ron has confidence in himself because he knows he can produce results.

[Alz]

Harry is a great wizard? :eek:
See this is it - it links in so well with Ron as well - both together are mediocre to the last just like Snape's says - put anyone under a life threatening situation they will come out fighting and prolly produce something people wouldn't normally expect - that is what we call self preservation but in general, day to day spell work both are just mediocre ... Hermione is the real, natural witch - ironic considering she is a muggle but goes to capture what JKR has been trying to say moralistically through the series ...
Ron and Harry are average wizards ... Voldemort makes Harry great, life threatening situations have bought the best out of Ron ... notice the link between the two - preservation!

[Lovegood54]

(starts screaming and ripping his hair out) HERMIONE AND DUMBLEDORE ARE NOT THE STANDARD WIZARDS, THEY ARE THE EXEMPLARY EXCEPTIONS!!!!!!!!! (RARRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!) ok, now that that is out of my system, i feel like saying it this way (since i had a psychology class today and the teacher talked about IQ) ok, the average IQ for americans is (checks notes) is between 95 and 115. ok, lets pretend that our favorite wizards were taking an MQ (magical quotient test). ok, i would say Ron (based on the effort we see him put into his school work, and note that the books arent a day-to-day journal, it skips a bit, so we dont see everything the characters do) i would rate Ron between 100-120, he's not a hot shot, but he is average and pretty good (when he wants to be) Harry gets between 110-130, cause he is no hot shot either, but he does excel at DADA and has to defeat Voldy. Hermione is between 120-140, cause she excells at her classes and seems to understand the basics of magic, but i havent seen her creating new spells yet. ok, now for not-so-major-characters: Dumbledore: 200-(sorry, number doesnt exist on this test, too high): b/c of this little line: "Examined him personally in Transfiguration and Charms when he did N.E.W.T.s ... Did things with a wand I'd never seen before ..." –Griselda Marchbanks (OoTP) and i believe she was refering to OWLs:eek: :eek: My goodness. Molly Weasley: 105-120, full grown wizard and she doesnt seem to be horrid at magic. ok, Neville: 95-115: he just needs more confidence in himself. i also think his nerves hold him back a bit, but note that he made great improvement in DA in OoTP, i think he is just trying to so hard to be like his dad (since his Grandmother is constantly comparing him, and never considers Neville any good from what i have seen. maybe if she were a bit easier on him he would improve?) that he is in effect slowing himself down. but he does excell in herbology. which is great.

so, what i am getting at is this: Hermione is NOT NOT NOT NOT NOT (oh, and did i mention NOT) the standard!!!!!! she is the exception, just like Dumbledore. after all, i am sure we would all say that fred and george are exceptional wizards, am i right???(consider their products in their shop while thinking on this question) but from what i remember, they only scraped a few OWLs each. Ron is a good wizard, sure he is no dumbledore (but then again, who is??? besides dumbledore or hermione) but he is a great wizard none the less.

Also: Hermione- "Your a great wizard harry" Harry- "Not as good as you" Hermione- "(small laugh) Me? Books and Cleverness? There are more important things....Friendship and bravery..." (Sorceror's Stone movie)

[Dr Winterbourne]

I would suggest Harry is a 'natural' wizard, because of the way his powers work. At the beginning of PoA, when he loses his temper, his aunt blows up. Then, in his rage, as he approaches a door, it opens. In the cemetary, in GoF, it is his intuition that defeats Voldemort. This I think, shows that his powers are instinctive, natural.

Hermione is the opposite - she has to study. But, she DOES study, so she is thus a good witch.

Ron's pretty average, really. He is alot like Xander in Buffy, providing the 'heart' and comedy.