One of the most fascinating things about fanfiction is how it twists canon to explore 'what if' scenarios, and Harry getting kicked out of Gryffindor is a popular one. Sometimes, it’s framed as a betrayal—maybe he’s caught secretly studying Dark Arts, or he abandons his friends during a critical moment, making the Sorting Hat question his loyalty. Other times, it’s more political; if Dumbledore’s reputation crumbles post-war, Harry’s association with him might tarnish his standing. I’ve read fics where the House turns on him after he refuses to fight in another wizarding war, calling him a coward. The drama is delicious, especially when authors dive into how Harry rebuilds his identity, often leaning into Slytherin or becoming a loner.
Another angle I love is when the expulsion isn’t his fault. Maybe a curse manipulates Gryffindor’s artifacts to reject him, or the House ghosts (like Nearly Headless Nick) argue he’s 'too reckless' even for them. One fic had the Fat Lady portrait refuse to let him in after a time-travel mishap made her think he was an impostor. The creativity here is endless—it’s less about logic and more about forcing Harry into uncharted emotional territory. Bonus points if Ron and Hermione have to choose between him and the House, tearing the Golden Trio apart.