Is the Lineage of Credence Barebones in Fantastic Beasts Accurate?

The revelation of Credence Barebones' lineage as a Dumbledore in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald has been a contentious point among fans. While this twist significantly adds to the complexity of the characters and their relationships, certain aspects of the timeline and established lore raise questions about the veracity of this discovery.

Magical Lineage and the Wizarding World

In the Harry Potter universe, magical lineage holds unique properties, particularly concerning blood purity and heritage. The idea that a character could be linked to a prominent family through unexpected means, such as adoption or hidden parentage, is not beyond the realm of possibility given the rich lore established by J.K. Rowling. This twist aligns with the narrative complexity typical of the series, where characters have complex and often untold histories.

The Obscurus and Credence's Fate

Credence's identity as an Obscurus, a dark force created when a young wizard suppresses their magical abilities, adds another layer of complexity to his character. Obscurials can arise from various backgrounds and their powers can be influenced by their emotional states and experiences rather than solely their lineage. This connection to the Obscurus raises questions about the impact of his upbringing and the circumstances that led to his transformation.

Familial Secrets and Hidden Truths

The Dumbledore family itself has its share of secrets and tragedies, particularly surrounding Albus Dumbledore, his brother Aberforth, and their sister Ariana. The potential for undisclosed relationships or hidden children fits within the themes of family and legacy that are prevalent in the series. Comparable to the revelations in The Force Awakens regarding Rey's parentage, the Dumbledore storyline introduces a new dimension of complexity.

Timeline and Consequences

One of the most significant concerns with Credence's revelation is the timeline. As of our current understanding, Claire Duke-Kendrick, also known as Kendra Dumbledore, died in 1899. Credence, being around his late teens or early twenties, would make him approximately 28 years old in the 1920's setting of the movie. The question arises as to how he could have had an older sibling who died in 1899. Additionally, Albus Dumbledore's account of his brother Percival, who was married to Kendra, suggests that he died shortly before or after Albus' first year at Hogwarts. This creates a timeline that is difficult to reconcile with Credence's existence as an older brother to a deceased sibling.

Rita Skeeter's reported excavation into the Dumbledore family's past adds another layer of intrigue. Known for her invasive and often controversial investigations, Skeeter would likely have uncovered familial secrets. The high probability that she would have discovered the existence of a secret brother suggests that this revelation has been widely known in the Wizarding World. However, the absence of this information in Albus' accounts and the historical records raises questions about the reliability of this twist.

Conclusion: A Nuanced Interpretation

While the reveal of Credence Barebones' lineage as a Dumbledore may seem surprising or controversial among fans, it is not inherently impossible within the established lore of the Wizarding World. The complexities of magical lineage, combined with the themes of family and hidden truths, support the plausibility of such a twist. However, the discrepancies in the timeline and the historical context raise significant questions that challenge the veracity of this storyline. Ultimately, the accuracy of this revelation remains a topic of ongoing debate, much like the nature of Rey's parentage in the Star Wars saga.