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Harry Potter: 15 greatest rivalries in franchise history

By Alexandria Ingham

NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 12: (U.S. TABLOIDS AND HOLLYWOOD REPORTER OUT) (L-R) Actors Daniel Radcliffe Ralph Fiennes and attend the premiere of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" on November 12, 2005 in New York City. (Photo by Peter Kramer/Getty Images)
NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 12: (U.S. TABLOIDS AND HOLLYWOOD REPORTER OUT) (L-R) Actors Daniel Radcliffe Ralph Fiennes and attend the premiere of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" on November 12, 2005 in New York City. (Photo by Peter Kramer/Getty Images) /
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Image courtesy of Warner Brothers
Image courtesy of Warner Brothers /

2. Harry Potter vs. Draco Malfoy

Book or movie? The rivalry between students took place in both the books and the movies.

Brief description of the rivalry: This was just one of those standard childhood rivalries. Draco initially tried to make friends with the Boy Who Lived—well, make him one of his cronies—but would end up with a school enemy.

It was a relatively pure rivalry. In fact, it was one that we could all relate to in a way, helping to create some sort of grounding to the magical story.

Did it remain a rivalry? This was one of those rivalries that started strong, but over time it changed. As Draco learned more about the world and the expectations on him, he realized that maybe Harry’s view was right. His mother’s decision to pull him away from the Battle of Hogwarts helped to make it clear that the rivalry was wrong.

When we flashed forward 19 years, it was clear the rivalry was no longer there. They just had a mutual respect for each other.

Why it’s one of the greatest: Every fantastical story needs something that’s grounded in reality. Even in a fantasy world, we need something that will help to make it feel like we’re there, offering us a grounding. That’s just what the rivalry between Harry and Draco offered us.

This rivalry also gave Harry a chance to learn more about his abilities and his willingness to stand up for his friends. It was a rivalry that would offer two children a chance to learn more about themselves, the world, and each other.

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