feature

Features

Hero Features Hub Texture

Pub trivia – fun facts you didn't know about wizarding inns

WEB-FEATURE-pub-trivia-fun-facts-you-did-not-know-about-wizarding-inns

pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero

pub-trivia-fun-facts-you-did-not-know-about-wizarding-inns-text-section-1

__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the stories…__

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

Despite what many [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) think, the title of oldest pub in London goes to this well-loved wizarding establishment. Found on Charing Cross Road, the [Leaky Cauldron](/fact-file/locations/the-leaky-cauldron) was built in the 1500s – long before Charing Cross Road was even planned! Its true address is number one, [Diagon Alley](/fact-file/locations/diagon-alley).

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

This wizarding institution wasn’t always a place that where only magical folk congregated. As it was built two centuries before the imposition of the International Statute of Secrecy, it was initially visible to Muggle eyes too. Muggles weren’t made to feel unwelcome or turned away. Having said that, thanks to the *interesting* conversations and even more *interesting* magical pets, many scarpered before finishing their mead.

![LeakyCauldron WB F1 SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron Illust 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5sxx5inySIAWsKA0gcuUEG/ca736eb81e715e092136f42c579a2719/LeakyCauldron_WB_F1_SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron_Illust_080615_Land.jpg)

## Neville Longbottom and Hannah Abbott lived above the Leaky Cauldron

In a turn of events that we find extremely adorable, after leaving [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) not only did [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) continue his passion for magical plants as [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) professor, but he also married [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff), [Hannah Abbott](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hannah-abbott-fact-file). The happy couple decided to make a home for themselves living above the one-and-only Leaky Cauldron.

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

Although we never learnt which one it was, according to *Sites of Historical Sorcery*, one of the wizarding pubs in [Hogsmeade](/fact-file/locations/hogsmeade) was said to have been the headquarters of the 1612 [goblin](/fact-file/creatures/goblin) rebellion. Could it have been the [Hog’s Head Inn](/fact-file/locations/the-hogs-head) which was known for its dubious dealings and schemes? Or perhaps it was the cosiness of the [Three Broomsticks](/fact-file/locations/the-three-broomsticks) that convinced the goblins to make it their base?

![pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2zygTLqXtChkWM7Asbbca3/14624eac244b6e0d0dd667458176dd1a/pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero.jpg)

## The Hog’s Head Inn was run by a Dumbledore

While [Albus Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) ran Hogwarts, just down the road his brother, [Aberforth Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/aberforth-dumbledore-fact-file), ran the Hog’s Head Inn. Crochety and a big fan of goats, he and his brother didn’t always see eye-to-eye. Ultimately, they were both extremely good people and Aberforth even helped the resistance at Hogwarts after Albus’ death – thanks to a secret passage that connected the [Room of Requirement](/fact-file/locations/the-room-of-requirement) to his pub.

## Sybill Trelawney made her infamous prediction at the Hog’s Head Inn

The Hog’s Head Inn was the location of many crucial story moments from the founding of [Dumbledore’s Army](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dumbledores-army) to [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) winning a dragon egg in a game of cards. However, there was one particular moment that changed the course of wizarding history forever. On a gloomy night, Albus Dumbledore went to interview [Sybill Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) for the role of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher. He was thoroughly unimpressed until, among the ramshackle décor and sticky floor, she made her prediction about the boy destined to end [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) and rid the world of his evil!

![pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/YvfQFf3Sc7Y1rQNcmqoKm/7278f0704d0a659047a66375127ed129/pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero.jpg)

## Katie Bell was given the cursed opal necklace at The Three Broomsticks

Run by Madam Rosmerta, the Three Broomsticks was a warm and welcoming establishment in Hogsmeade. Yet Dark Magic still managed to worm its way in there in the form of the cursed opal necklace. Part of a clumsy attempt on Dumbledore’s life, [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) Quidditch team member, [Katie Bell](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/katie-bell), took the necklace from the pub while under the influence of the [Imperius Curse](/fact-file/spells/the-imperius-curse) and narrowly escaped its deadly power.

## It wasn’t just witches and wizards who frequented the Three Broomsticks

Said to be as old as the only all-wizard village in Britain, the Three Broomsticks was a bit of a haven for all sorts of magical beings, such as hags, who couldn’t disguise themselves particularly well in the Muggle world. In fact, Ron and Hermione once thought they spotted an ogre!

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

WEB-FEATURE-every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches

HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape

Hermione wearing a red dress and smiling at Bill and Fleur's wedding.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

HP-F7

and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-1

## The importance of keeping things in perspective

![HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/qVjLFPXczR2mwGR54M1JK/5ffbc10854b90be415e66d18504a0f56/HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape)

‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery…’

EXCERPT-HP-B1-hermione-books-and-cleverness-quote

Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-2

Despite being known for her exceptional brain power, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) also knew the importance of nurturing the other elements of her personality too. It’s a lesson she learnt in her first year after finding genuine friendship. It is also one that we could do with remembering too.

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3yxtbUPaKL5YRyOXEmcss7/b5f3840e6afd0c2e76548570d0532593/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape)

‘…anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.'

EXCERPT-HP-B5-ginny-anything-possible-quote

Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-3

If you don’t ask you don’t get! As [Ginny](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley) reminds us, if we shy away from a challenge, we’re never going to achieve our dreams. If we find our courage? Well, the world is our oyster.

## Be proud of who you are

![HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/71JqjFqxFPKBLmoFUGKYJD/22d4d28400d268c5d1382d675b5ce1ae/HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape)

‘It’s high time your grandmother learned to be proud of the grandson she’s got, rather than the one she thinks she ought to have...’

EXCERPT-HP-B6-mcgonagall-augusta-should-be-proud-quote

Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-4

The no-nonsense [McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) was a witch worth listening to! It’s all too easy to get caught up in the comparison trap, trying to think about who you *should* be and feeling inadequate next to others. However, you are brilliant just the way you are. You are one-of-a-kind. If the Head of [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) can see that – so can you.

## There is always hope

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5zrwB81bovDEUXWbMyCWia/26babee3a72e41ff8557681a28703f5a/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape)

‘The things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’

EXCERPT-HP-F5-luna-things-we-lose-quote

Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-5

When times are hard, it can be easy to give up hope and become despondent. Yet this poignant point from the wonderfully eccentric [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) is a reminder that good days are on the horizon – even if we can’t quite see them yet.

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

![WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7uWvZ2RIgkybj8J1lCs5RA/39672ce02de6ff4e27d39381deb3c05f/WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop.jpg)

‘I’m hoping to do some good in the world!’

EXCERPT-HP-B7-hermione-hoping-to-do-some-good-quote

Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-6

No matter who you are, you *can* make a difference. If you channel Hermione’s determination, we’re sure you will go on to do great and brilliant things.

## An excellent reminder

![HP-F5-molly-weasley-harry-potter-web-10744](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1ugOAEKJsmxHxy7rDSEkO8/d6f828346ab08de9e2eb69ed086fdf71/weasley-quiz-title-.jpg)

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

EXCERPT-HP-B5-molly-weasley-first-impression-quote

Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-7

A sage piece of advice from [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley)! She might have said this to Harry before his [Ministry](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) hearing, but we think this is something that can be applied to many different areas of your life. From making friends to job interviews, things are always easier if you start off on the right foot.

## Do what is right, not what is easy

![WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4L5hkIozTd68acqd3hpP2I/27590dc492caea34621b56bdd472e45b/WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape.jpg)

‘Well, if you two are going to chicken out, fine… I don’t want to break rules, you know. I think threatening Muggle-borns is far worse than brewing up a difficult potion.’

EXCERPT-HP-B2-threatening-muggle-borns-hermione-quote

Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-8

Hermione was the witch who once declared being expelled to be a fate worse than death. To hear her trying to convince [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) to break the rules was rather shocking. Yet she raises an extremely valuable point. Sometimes you need to push the boundaries to do what is right. Following the rules can only go so far – especially if those rules cause more harm than good. It can be hard to stand up and be counted but we should all try to do so.

## Protect what is important

![WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6PcDR4xjlhQ8xtErVUHYBc/198864f4ef4413d1ed6e50f91411088e/WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape.jpg)

‘I feel that if a single pupil wants to come, then the school ought to remain open for that pupil.’

EXCERPT-HP-B6-professor-sprout-hogwarts-remain-open-quote

Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-9

This was a brave statement from [Professor Sprout](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) in the wake of [Dumbledore’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) death. [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) was so much more than a school. For many like Harry, it was a sanctuary and place they could call home. A place that should be protected. This is a sentiment we could all take on board. We should all work hard to take care of what, and who, is important to us.

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

‘What do I care how ’e looks? I am good-looking enough for both of us, I theenk! All these scars show is zat my husband is brave!’

EXCERPT-HP-B6-fleur-delacour-good-looking-enough-for-both-quote

Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-10

You might think glamorous and goodlooking [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would also be extremely vain. Yet she wasn’t. Filled with self-confidence, she didn’t judge her husband based on his appearance – she knew it was the content of his character that truly mattered. That attitude is one we think everyone should embody.

## Boundaries are good

![mcgonagall-web-header-wand](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6J6heLMpK9Lee0eL8faPnj/18ebb3e1a6694c1ed440bf094b02a127/mcgonagall-web-headrer.jpg)

‘I do not generally permit people to talk when I am talking.’

EXCERPT-HP-B5-mcgonagall-do-not-permit-people-to-talk-when-she-is-quote

Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

every-quote-to-live-by-from-your-favourite-witches-text-section-11

Quite right too! Don’t let anybody try to take your voice or diminish you. If someone tries to talk over you, channel your inner McGonagall and lay down the law – they’ll soon learn a valuable lesson.

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

WEB-FEATURE-your-birth-month-tells-us-your-harry-potter-soulmate

PMARCHIVE-Ron Hermione homepage carousel 3Npf2yAQfKUWUUKCGuS6K6-b7

Ron Hermione homepage carousel

your-birth-month-tells-us-your-harry-potter-soulmate-text-section-1

## January: The determined and dedicated Oliver Wood is your perfect match

![WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7iJHeRIUbca989dspC4c2t/a8eae533de5cb364c2b8ef17aa39c857/WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape.jpg)

When considering your ideal partner, you don’t want someone who is afraid of commitment and isn’t willing to put the work in. You want someone who is going to give the relationship their all. This is why you and [Oliver Wood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/oliver-wood) make a perfect pair. This [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) proved his determination time and time again as [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) Captain. He was always coming up with training techniques and drills to make the team better. Yes, some of his teammates might have complained about the early starts, but it didn’t put Oliver off… and it worked. That’s the type of dedication you admire.

## February: Your soulmate is the creative and eccentric Luna Lovegood

![WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5jiVEF9rz3GdDt6go666da/6431193cd66631881320a9921f2913fe/WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape.jpg)

There is nothing that bores you more than blending into the crowd. From your curious insights to your wacky wardrobe, you march to the beat of your own drum. You are proud to celebrate your uniqueness, and you are looking for a partner that doesn’t shy away from their individuality too. This is why [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood) with her [Spectrespecs](/fact-file/objects/spectrespecs) and radish-like earrings is your ideal match. The two of you would have a joyful relationship that celebrated creativity, eccentricity and a shared belief in the Crumple-Horned Snorkack.

## March: The brilliantly hilarious Ron Weasley is the one for you

![HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/51khMqIDGh7ltBpFgDIet4/4390b7228f2368b128a11304e8a73108/HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape.jpg)

Life’s too short not to have fun. Who wants to be miserable? Yes, serious things happen but you still want to find the joy in life, and you want a partner who can do that too. This is why you and [Ron Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) would make the perfect pair. From his ‘Merlin's most baggy Y-fronts’ exclamations to quippy ‘Oh, of course… I forgot we’ll be hunting down [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) in a mobile library’ comebacks – his quick with would keep you entertained for life.

## April: The elegant and poised Fleur Delacour is your ideal soulmate

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

Graceful, elegant and gliding through life – that’s the ultimate dream. You aren’t interested in awkward situations and embarrassing encounters; you want life to be as serene as possible. As you want this from your partner too, you and [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would make a flawless duo. No matter what situation she faced – from walking into the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) for the first time to rejecting [Yule Ball](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/yule-ball) dates, she was always perfectly poised which is something you appreciate.

## May: The thoroughly good Cedric Diggory is who you’re drawn to

![HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7Gg3rW3wpho401kh28ueXG/2ce6bdeb293a9f962407b31ab38c3c2b/HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape)

You have no time for people that like to play games in relationships. You abhor anyone who has a mean streak. You really can’t stand when people are rude to those around them. This is why [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) is the perfect person for you. Despite being handsome, intelligent and an extremely talented wizard, this [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) was also humble. He was *good*. He helped Harry despite him being his [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) rival and never let being the rising star at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) go to his head. Cedric is a partner you would always feel safe with… and he is perfect for you.

## June: Your soulmate is Lavender Brown who wears her heart on her sleeve

![HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/41iicwNjHTdrMVNZoiTdoC/ddf961f7074d912a9307c0dc9e2716aa/HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape)

As someone who is often described as vivacious and an open book, you have real difficulty bonding with people who are closed off or reserved. You find those who keep their cards close to their chest rather unsettling – which is why [Lavender Brown](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lavender-brown) is your soulmate. Whether she was snogging Ron in front of the whole [Gryffindor common room](/fact-file/locations/the-gryffindor-common-room) or giving him gaudy necklaces as a token of her affection, she was not afraid of her emotions or letting everyone else see them. This type of openness is something you can’t help but be drawn to.

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

![HP WB F4 Neville and his plant crop ](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/66z5lwGFVYTJTiW2dNdKfw/e99e49796545303b7dec644c11004840/NevilleLongbottom_WB_F4_NevilleLongbottomWithPlantPromoShot_Promo_080615_CROP.jpg)

Don’t underestimate [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom). He might have initially been a clumsy underdog, but he soon surpassed that and became a [sword-of-Gryffindor-wielding](/fact-file/objects/the-sword-of-gryffindor) hero. One who was loyal to his friends, his school and loyal to what was right. As someone born in July, this is what you would like to find in a partner. You don’t want a person who could easily be swayed. You want someone who is as committed to you as Neville is to his [Mimbulus mimbletonia](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia), which is why he is the one for you.

## August: The logical and intelligent Hermione Granger is the one for you

![HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5aJclseoYsrr4a0y0XPiQY/be44e1bfabc2a5f7422ed6e87a5df30e/HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape)

As somebody who is known for their sharp mind and love of learning, we think you and the [cleverest witch of her age](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger), who takes the largest books out of the [Hogwarts library](/fact-file/locations/the-hogwarts-library) for ‘light reading’, would get on like a house on fire. Your days would be spent verbally sparring with each other, debating Ancient Rune translations and generally broadening your minds and you wouldn’t want it any other way.

## September: The discerning Draco Malfoy is your wizarding soulmate

![WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4FeDA9gWYlkm3iFXZMUOF5/47927d38da6fcc8d4660a5cd92a7e6d6/WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape.jpg)

There’s nothing wrong with being shrewd or ambitious, these are traits that you rather admire. In fact, you find someone who knows exactly what they want and how to get it extremely attractive. This is why [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) is the one for you. We are in no way saying you are prejudiced or a bully like he was. However, the embodiment of [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) traits, he was not afraid to openly say he liked the finer things in life or believe he deserved them – just like you.

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

![GinnyWeasley WB F6 GinnyAtSlughornsParty Still 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4otWY19HKE4WyOOy4Q0wSu/66177ea78a84f5e28b9fb79b2b961e51/GinnyWeasley_WB_F6_GinnyAtSlughornsParty_Still_080615_Land.jpg)

If there was a witch that knew exactly who she was, it was [Ginny Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley). Having had a rough start at Hogwarts she blossomed into a fierce and phenomenal person – with an excellent talent for the [Bat-Bogey Hex](/fact-file/spells/the-bat-bogey-hex). That self-assuredness is something that you are looking for in a partner. You don’t want somebody who doesn’t take the time to work on being the best version of themselves. You want someone who is confident and powerful – exactly like Ginny.

## November: Harry Potter’s bravery is what makes him your soulmate

![HP-F8-harry-lake-web-header](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3SzHQWDxZAPjea1KYpaIO0/cc24a62a6e35937f165b190cf14df8e6/harry_heaer.png)

[Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) is not afraid to confront the difficult things in life. He doesn’t shy away from a challenge or let fear stop him. He puts himself out there whether that’s soaring through the sky on his [broomstick](/fact-file/objects/broomstick), fighting the forces of evil or summoning up the courage to ask his crush to the Yule Ball. This is something that you strongly relate to. You’re not one to be called timid and you can’t stand cowardice. We’re not saying you’re necessarily an extrovert, but you stand up when it matters and that’s why Harry is your ultimate wizarding soulmate.

## December: The glass half-empty Moaning Myrtle is your perfect match

![HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2HdGuqY9aOgGStQJii0yVY/5013a2d38cecb8e9f536e42f6dbf0036/HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape.jpg)

There is no person that gets on your nerves more than the one who is relentlessly optimistic. You don’t have time from all that chirpiness and being constantly told to look on the bright side. In fact, being stuck with someone like that would be your worst nightmare. You want someone who will always look on the gloomy side – which is why [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle) (emphasis on the *Moaning*) is your perfect match. Despite her crush on Harry Potter, with your maudlin outlook, we’re sure you could win her over and many (un)happy centuries sitting in the [u-bend of a Hogwarts toilet](/fact-file/locations/moaning-myrtles-bathroom) discussing all the reasons why everything is awful.

For beginners, for novices, for Harry Potter superfans going 20 years-strong, dig deep into the wizarding world with our collection of features.

Features - Wizarding World

Why Hermione Granger and Newt Scamander are a similar sort of hero

PMARCHIVE-Why Hermione Granger and Newt Scamander are a similar sort of hero

PMARCHIVE-WB F5 Hermione DA Lesson cH4ILJjdFPxuQcqoHR4Vd-b5

WB F5 Hermione DA Lesson

Hermione during a Dumbledore's Army meeting 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-why-hermione-granger-and-newt-scamander-are-a-similar-sort-of-hero-0

Who had serious smarts, magical luggage and borderline reckless loyalty? If you answered ‘Hermione Granger’, you’re correct. However, if you answered ‘Newt Scamander’, you’re also correct. You see, Newt and Hermione were cut from the same heroic cloth. Or at very least, they shared a clandestine playbook with secret methods to befuddle enemies and undo evil.

Hermione has earned a reputation as the not-so-secret key to Harry and Ron’s survival throughout their years at Hogwarts, and presumably, beyond. For his part, we’ve seen Newt Scamander use his unique abilities to thwart one of the most notorious Dark wizards in all of history and keep a promise to a winged pal along the way. But though decades separate their respective adventures, we can draw many clear lines between the ways and means each of them employs to survive and thrive.

## En route introductions

PMARCHIVE-FB WB  Newt Scamander at NY no-maj customs 2LmGCdyrQIqS02kGeQeY8E-b1

Eddie Redmayne playing Newt Scamander as he passes through New York customs 

FB WB  Newt Scamander at NY no-maj customs 

Newt Scamander's case is checked whilst passing through NY no-maj customs 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-why-hermione-granger-and-newt-scamander-are-a-similar-sort-of-hero-2

When we first met Hermione on the Hogwarts Express in *Philosopher’s Stone*, she was fresh out of the Muggle world but in full Hogwarts regalia and already capable of mending broken glasses. She was on the threshold of an unfamiliar world and in search of Neville’s lost toad. 

We met Newt under similar circumstances: he was just off the boat from England and making his way through New York customs. He was in Muggle-worthy clothes, complete with a briefcase that looked so non-magical that it got mixed up with one owned by a No-Maj. He was determined to look as though he belonged. Talk about your overachievers.

## Extraordinary luggage

PMARCHIVE-Hermione WB F7 HermioneHoldingBeadedBag HPDH1-01384 7BKAv9bMCXZeNp7mADEdLr-b9

Hermione WB F7 HermioneHoldingBeadedBag HPDH1-01384

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-why-hermione-granger-and-newt-scamander-are-a-similar-sort-of-hero-4

And speaking of Newt’s leather case, we simply cannot discuss the parallels between these two if we don’t take a serious look at their superior packing game. Hermione’s little, beaded bag was legendary for both its space (she had a mini-library, a tent, the portrait of Phineas Nigellus Black, stores of potions, clothes, rations and all manner of other goodies) and portability. Now, managing to carry all of that in a bag that tucks easily into a sock or other bit of clothing is pretty impressive. 

However, Newt’s leather case must be considered the gold standard in magical bags – it doubled as an entire sanctuary, complete with any number of habitats suited to beasts of every variety. Pretty cool.

## Wit and intelligence before brawn

PMARCHIVE-WB FB Newt looks at the Niffler jewellery store Hufflepuff scarf 7I5LdPfQ40MkoQmSIMCUKG-b7

WB FB Newt looks at the Niffler jewellery store Hufflepuff scarf

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-why-hermione-granger-and-newt-scamander-are-a-similar-sort-of-hero-6

For a Hufflepuff and a Gryffindor, Newt and Hermione sure harboured some strong Ravenclaw tendencies. Hermione was never one to take a pass on answering a question posed to a class, and her ravenous reading often proved key to busting the trio out of a tight corner. Devil’s Snare? Hermione knew just the spell. Logic puzzles? Check. N.E.W.T.-level potions during her second year? No problem. 

Likewise, Newt, always the scientist, used his intellect and his case full of creatures to stay safe and (mostly) out of trouble in New York. Erumpent in heat? Newt knows the mating dance. Mischievous Niffler? Newt knows how to rein him in. Like Albus Dumbledore before them, these creative thinkers have style.

## Deduction and intuition

PMARCHIVE-WB F2 PolyjuicePotion HermioneMakingPolyjuice 3731 5keS86lwbKEgIQQKCk6CwQ-b2

WB F2 PolyjuicePotion HermioneMakingPolyjuice 3731

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-why-hermione-granger-and-newt-scamander-are-a-similar-sort-of-hero-8

Newt and Hermione’s powers of intellect didn’t always supply them with the exact right answer straight away, but their shared inquisitive nature made them both rather good detectives. Just as Hermione quickly deduced that Professor Lupin was a werewolf, Newt was fascinated to discover that Queenie was a Legilimens and quick to realise that sharing the story of another Obscurus might be the only way to reach Credence. But those are rapid realisations based on contextual evidence, the truly impressive sleuthing takes place on a grander scale.

Hermione pieced together the truth about Slytherin’s monster with nothing more than the information swirling around the school and some quality time in the library. Her timely conclusions allowed her to save both herself and Penelope Clearwater from certain death at the hands (er, scales?) of the Basilisk and gave Harry and Ron the push they needed to sort it all out. 

For his part, Newt managed to track a case full of wily and elusive magical creatures throughout an unfamiliar city. He had an ally in Tina, but only his ability to put himself in the place of his animal companions to guide him. In a world where many instinctually use magic first and logic second, Hermione and Newt stood apart. 

## Crusaders for a cause

PMARCHIVE-Thunderbird Fantastic Beasts CC Trailer 2LmGCdyrQIqS02kGeQeY8E-b9

Thunderbird Fantastic Beasts CC Trailer

Thunderbird in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-why-hermione-granger-and-newt-scamander-are-a-similar-sort-of-hero-10

Newt Scamander’s arrival in New York wasn’t the result of some pleasure cruise. Rather, he was making a dangerous (and rather illegal) voyage to the States to deliver his friend, Frank, a Thunderbird, to his natural homeland of Arizona. Not only had Newt rescued Frank from traffickers in Egypt, and set to work restoring his strength, he’d also endeavoured to enter a turbulent atmosphere to see him home safely. Many wizards would have considered the liberation good deed enough and moved on, but Newt fought for creatures without voice. 

Years later, Hermione would observe the treatment of house-elves and go against popular opinion to fight for their right to be treated as equals. S.P.E.W. might not have inspired all that many followers, but it was a mark of Hermione’s compassion that she pressed on of her own accord. To be fair, her message did eventually catch on, at least with Ron.

So: two very smart magical folk, two completely different eras. But it’s nice to see another Wizarding World character, in the shape of our Newt Scamander, championing books, cleverness – and most importantly - kindness.

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

The Harry Potter characters named after constellations

PMARCHIVE-The Harry Potter characters named after constellations

PMARCHIVE-WB F3 TheShriekingShack SiriusAndLupin C500-5 UP HPE3 4IeOyFKliEOmwY0OGc6QIg-b8

WB F3 TheShriekingShack SiriusAndLupin C500-5 UP HPE3

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-the-harry-potter-characters-named-after-constellations-0

## Sirius and Regulus Black

Harry’s godfather Sirius was – like many members of his family – named after a star. The Sirius star is in fact the brightest in the night sky and is situated in the constellation known as ‘Canis major' (The Greater Dog). Pretty apt for an unregistered Animagus who relied on his ability to turn into a dog to escape numerous sticky situations, including escaping from the allegedly unescapable Azkaban.

Then there’s Sirius’s brother, Regulus Arcturus – a boy named for not one but TWO stars. Regulus is the brightest star in the constellation of Leo and Arcturus the brightest in the constellation of Boötes, so you could argue Sirius’s younger brother was twice as bright. Except that he did throw his lot in with Voldemort, which doesn’t strike us as particularly clever. Still, we’ll give him points for stealing and attempting to destroy the Horcrux locket.

## Bellatrix Lestrange

PMARCHIVE-BellatrixLestrange WB F7 BellatrixCastingSpell V2 Still 080615 Port 1xhX863T9yGsc0m2G0kSik-b7

BellatrixLestrange WB F7 BellatrixCastingSpell V2 Still 080615 Port

Bellatrix casting a spell and holding the Sowrd of Gryffindor 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-the-harry-potter-characters-named-after-constellations-2

Sirius might have seen his name struck off the Black tapestry when, as a teenager, he ran away and rejected his family’s politics, but he and Regulus weren’t the only Blacks to be named after the night sky. Many more of Sirius’s cousins were happy to embrace the family’s love of Dark wizardry, and Bellatrix Lestrange (previously Black) was no exception.

The Bellatrix star is only the third-brightest in the Orion constellation, so although witch Bellatrix may have succeeded in killing her cousin, in star terms Sirius always burned brighter. But the name Bellatrix does also mean ‘female warrior’, which we have to acknowledge was very fitting for Voldemort’s right-hand woman.

## Remus Lupin

PMARCHIVE-undefined 57umW5aKcjVMWnOsNEvsao-g0

RemusLupin WB F3 LupinLookingConcernedInHisOffice Still 080615 Land

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-the-harry-potter-characters-named-after-constellations-4

As if our very favourite werewolf Lupin’s first name, Remus, wasn’t wolfish enough (it comes from the tale of Romulus and Remus, the twin founders of Rome brought up by a she-wolf), his surname is also derived from the constellation Lupus, Latin for ‘wolf’. Even Lupin’s nickname, Moony, was a nod to the night sky – werewolves, of course, transform during a full moon. 

It was the second-century astronomer Ptolemy (who was, incidentally, a real-life historical figure also depicted on the wizarding world’s Chocolate Frog cards) who first identified this constellation as a wolf. Some myths even depict Lupus as a wolf being speared by a centaur in readiness for sacrifice (Centaurus being a neighbouring constellation). In the world of Harry Potter, Lupin always seemed to get on well enough with the centaurs, though, so we hope he never received that treatment. 

## Draco Malfoy

Malfoy’s mother Narcissa might have been one of the few Black family members to avoid being named for a star, but she returned to the tradition when naming her own and only child. Draco’s name comes from the Latin for dragon, and Draco is also another constellation named by astronomer Ptolemy. Apparently the Draco can be seen all year round – maybe that explains why it’s so rare for Draco to take a day off from his bullying ways.

PMARCHIVE-WB F6 Argus Filch catching Draco at Christmas party HP6D-05699 4ZVIusWM1qcMQwy0O6YMQG-b1

WB F6 Argus Filch catching Draco at Christmas party HP6D-05699

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-the-harry-potter-characters-named-after-constellations-6

Dragons, of course, are fearsome and fierce creatures that breathe fire and make very bad pets (are you listening, Hagrid?) which also fits what we’ve seen of Hogwarts’ best-known school bully. But they’re also very protective of their families, as Harry’s experience with the Hungarian Horntail will attest. Similarly, Draco’s motivation for following Voldemort in *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince* was to restore his family’s standing. So we suppose dragons and Dracos aren’t ALL bad.

## Actually, the Black family in general!

PMARCHIVE-Sirius Black carousel 1fpd6jjUyooWAqs80Uco0A-b7

Sirius Black carousel

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-the-harry-potter-characters-named-after-constellations-8

There are too many stars (of a type) in the [Black family tapestry](/features/black-family-tree) to pick them all out, but we are rather fond of Alphard, the uncle who left Sirius some gold and was subsequently struck off the tapestry. Apparently, the Alphard star is also known as the snake’s heart – which would be an excellent name for a fully paid-up Voldemort-supporting member of the Black family tree. But given Sirius’s gold and Alphard’s tapestry removal, we like to think that he, like his nephew, rejected this interpretation rather forcefully. 

Andromeda Tonks, sister to Bellatrix and Narcissa, was also named after a constellation, itself named for a Greek mythological princess. Tonks’s mother saw her name removed permanently from the Black tapestry when she married a Muggle, and again we quite like the idea of those renegade Blacks rejecting the lofty and ridiculous politics of their ancestors.

A closer look at the History of Magic audiobook

PMARCHIVE-A closer look at the History of Magic audiobook

PMARCHIVE-History Of Magic Natalie Dormer Main still homepage 5QzYpZ33u8mc8CQmIgo08C

History Of Magic Natalie Dormer Main still homepage 3849x2566

Natalie Dormer surrounded by flying pages from History of Magic book

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-a-closer-look-at-the-history-of-magic-audiobook-0

The audiobook of *Harry Potter: A History of Magic* is a journey through history and all over the world. From European runes to Ethiopian talismans, crystal balls and broomsticks to giants and werewolves, it brings to life a multitude of artefacts – the very stuff of magic and mythic traditions.

[As announced here in August](/news/natalie-dormer-to-join-the-wizarding-world-with-history-of-magic-audiobook), it is being narrated by Natalie Dormer, best known for her roles in *Game of Thrones* and *The Hunger Games*, and most recently in a new television adaptation of *Picnic At Hanging Rock*.

<style>.embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }</style><div class='embed-container'><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q0uO5EjGXxY" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br>

The audiobook is packed full of contributions from Wizarding World favourites, including Harry Potter audiobook narrators Stephen Fry and Jim Dale, artists Jim Kay and Olivia Lomenech Gill, as well as the curators at the British Library and New-York Historical Society.

It is also structured according to the subjects taught at Hogwarts, but you won’t need a Time-Turner to attend all of these classes! 

Here are some highlights you’ll hear on the journey.

## Jim Dale on Centaurs

PMARCHIVE-Centuar WB F5 CentaurSideOn Illust 100615 Port vduvLwJqISCoCoa8m0eIY-b1

Centuar WB F5 CentaurSideOn Illust 100615 Port

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-a-closer-look-at-the-history-of-magic-audiobook-2

When Jim Dale was recording the US version of the Harry Potter audiobooks and suddenly came upon three centaurs entering the story, he had to think on the hoof. He decided to give them Welsh accents – old, middle-aged and young. 

After it was released, Jim received a letter querying why on earth he had given centaurs Welsh accents. Perplexed, Jim explains how he had to write back justifying the accents he gave to centaurs which are in fact, fictional beings: ‘I wrote a letter to him: “…so there are thousands of centaurs in Wales, every football team has a centaur forward, every town has an old folk’s centaur, you know, or a library centaur.”  I never did hear back from him.’

## Stephen Fry recites the Abracadabra charm

Not to be outdone, narrator of the UK Harry Potter audiobooks has a go at the abracadabra charm. This famous magical word was originally used in the 2nd century AD by the physician to a Roman emperor. It’s original use was as a cure or prevention against malaria.

The way it works is to write the word ‘abracadabra’ several times, every time on a new line, but to take off a letter each go. This way the pattern resembles an upside-down cone with the last letter making the apex. The parchment was then wound with linen and hung around the neck. Stephen recites the charm in the audiobook and has since purportedly saved himself a small fortune in mosquito spray.

## Nicolas Flamel’s tombstone

PMARCHIVE-Flamel tombstone NYHS vduvLwJqISCoCoa8m0eIY-b3

Flamel tombstone NYHS

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-a-closer-look-at-the-history-of-magic-audiobook-4

As revealed in its [second trailer](/news/everything-we-noticed-from-the-fantastic-beasts-the-crimes-of-grindelwald-comic-con-trailer), Nicolas Flamel is making an appearance in *The Crimes of Grindelwald*, but did you know that the storied alchemist was a real figure from history? He didn’t quite make it to over six hundred years old though – because there’s a tombstone with his name on it.

Supposedly designed by Flamel himself, the tombstone was discovered in the 19th century where it was being used as a chopping board in a Parisian grocer’s shop! The legend around Flamel suggested that he was a book dealer who came across a mysterious and magical book that contained secrets regarding the philosopher’s stone. Although there is actually no documentary evidence that he was involved in the book trade, he was a wealthy landlord. This didn’t stop him becoming very famous indeed, and mentioned in the journals of Sir Isaac Newton and Victor Hugo’s novel, *The Hunchback of Notre-Dame*.

## Jim Kay on representing Diagon Alley

PMARCHIVE-Seven Stories Jim Kay Owl Diagon Alley 3U3kGkd6LeUYu4SOi46amw

JimKay-Harry-Potter-Diagon-Alley

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-a-closer-look-at-the-history-of-magic-audiobook-6

Admitting it ‘nearly killed me’, Jim Kay spends some time talking about the various inspirations behind the meticulous 19-foot-long panorama of Diagon Alley he created for the illustrated edition of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*. Describing the process as akin to knitting, where you start in one corner and move outwards, it took a huge amount of invention to fill in the gaps between well-known shops such as Quality Quidditch Supplies and Florean Fortescue’s ice cream parlour.

Alongside Bufo’s (named after the toad that lived in Jim’s garden) and Noltie’s Botanical Novelties (named for a botanist friend called Professor Henry Noltie), there is a shop with an ancient Egyptian connection, Tut’s Nuts: ‘…when I worked at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, there were items from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, these olive stones that used to belong to King Tutankhamun, they were now in the collections of the Royal Botanic Gardens, and they were referred to as Tut’s Nuts, you see, so that’s why that’s in there.’ 

## Olivia Lomenech Gill on creating images of fantastic beasts

PMARCHIVE-FB illustrated Graphorn vduvLwJqISCoCoa8m0eIY-b7

A Graphorn from the illustrated edition of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them 

FB illustrated Graphorn

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-a-closer-look-at-the-history-of-magic-audiobook-8

When she was illustrating Hogwarts Library book *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*, Olivia was keen to work from existing accounts of mythological creatures, or even better, real zoological records. For the Graphorn, she needed inspiration for a beast with very long, sharp horns, four-thumbed feet and an extremely aggressive nature. She based it on the skeleton of a prehistoric quadruped from the Natural History Museum in London… but added some fangs. 

For the huge grey plates of gnarly hide that protect its body, there are words discernible under the subtly purple colouration: ‘this one I’ve approached with a technique I like to use a lot, which is collage, which I use often of old encyclopaedia pages.  And I’ll paint over them, so you’re not really seeing the text particularly, but the charcoal.’

## Deciding on a Sorting Hat

PMARCHIVE-JKR Sorting Hat illustration 3MITOuJpgQC828a4KE2y0Q-b1

JKR Sorting Hat illustration

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-a-closer-look-at-the-history-of-magic-audiobook-10

The audiobook also contains discussion of several precious documents and illustrations from J.K. Rowling’s personal archive, including an early version of the Sorting Hat song. Her brainstorming notes, complete with doodles and scribbles in the margin, help us to understand how she finally made a decision on magical school administration. 

Alongside the document with the song’s lyrics there is also discussion with Joanna Norledge (Lead Curator, Contemporary Literary and Creative Archives) of another sketch of the Sorting Hat itself, very close to how it has been represented in the books and films. As J.K. Rowling described the process of deciding on the Sorting Hat [on this very site](/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-sorting-hat): ‘Finally, I wrote a list of the ways in which people can be chosen: eeny meeny miny mo, short straws, chosen by team captains, names out of a hat – names out of a talking hat – putting on a hat – the Sorting Hat.’



This really just scratches the surface of the wealth of material in the nearly twelve hours of the *Harry Potter: A History of Magic* audiobook. If you have any interest in a scroll that when unfurled is as tall as a giraffe, a ‘real’ mermaid which might be the upper body of a monkey and lower half of a fish put together, or bones from China that divine the future, never mind the historical forebears of the magic at the heart of the Harry Potter stories – this is for you! 

*The audiobook is out now and available to buy in in the UK [here](https://audible.co.uk/historyofmagic) and the US [here](https://audible.com/historyofmagic).*

In defence of Xenophilius Lovegood

PMARCHIVE-In defence of Xenophilius Lovegood

PMARCHIVE-WB F7 Xenophilius Lovegood drawing Deathly Hallows HPDH1-04001 foq8yRZxZKqiYuCwgcks2

WB F7 Xenophilius Lovegood drawing Deathly Hallows HPDH1-04001

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-xenophilius-lovegood-0

*Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* was a tense read because there was so much more at stake than our heroes’ lives. After all, if [Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry") had failed to find the [Horcruxes](/features/the-horcruxes "The Horcruxes"), imagine the horrors [Voldemort](/features/lord-voldemort "Lord Voldemort") would have unleashed: mass [Muggle](/collection/muggles "Muggles") killings, the persecution of ‘Mudbloods’ and the slaughter of all who stood with Harry and defied the Dark Lord. Who in their right mind would risk such a terrible future? 

> ‘I’d feel so sorry for Xenophilius if –’  
> ‘– if he hadn’t just tried to sell us to the Death Eaters, yeah,’ said Ron. 
<br> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* </br>

This deed was pretty unforgivable. But [Xenophilius Lovegood](/features/xenophilius-lovegood "Xenophilius Lovegood"), Luna’s dad, was forced to face the question every parent fears – how far would you go to save your own child?

PMARCHIVE-LovegoodHouse WB F7 HarryRonHermioneOutsideLovegoodHouse Illust 080615 Port 4c0gvTPbGwCcqEqkCcIu0u-b1

LovegoodHouse WB F7 HarryRonHermioneOutsideLovegoodHouse Illust 080615 Port

Harry Ron and Hermione outside the Lovegood house 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-xenophilius-lovegood-2

> ‘Lovegood’s on your side, Harry, *The Quibbler*’s been for you all along, it keeps telling everyone they’ve got to help you!’ 
<br> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* </br>

One of the most painful feelings in these chapters is betrayal. Harry had previously found support and solidarity through *The Quibbler* and its editor. Never one to shy away from unpopular views, Lovegood boldly published Harry’s story during a Ministry-led smear-campaign headed by the [*Daily Prophet.*](/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-daily-prophet "The Daily Prophet by J.K. Rowling") With the truth finally in print, Harry’s *Quibbler* interview helped win the favour of his fellow students, boosted further when [Dolores Umbridge](/features/dolores-umbridge "Dolores Umbridge") tried to have the magazine banned. As the world turned dark and dangerous, *The Quibbler* continued to be an avid supporter of Harry Potter. 

It was, therefore, such a surprise when the trio called upon [the Lovegoods](/collection/lovegood-family "The Lovegood Family"), only to be greeted by a jittery, dishevelled mess of a man who seemed reluctant to help in any way. Even before his true intentions were revealed, [Ron](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") called Xenophilius a ‘cowardly old wart’ and [Hermione](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger") agreed:

> ‘Awful old hypocrite, telling everyone else to help you and trying to worm out of it himself.’ 
<br> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* </br>

Where was the firebrand journalist who was so determined to deliver truth to the masses? And, more worryingly, where was [Luna](/features/luna-lovegood "Luna Lovegood")?

PMARCHIVE-WB F8 LunaLovegood LunaAtShellCottageLookingSad HPDH1-02884A 4X3dJKhF8Ay4aWi4Uuu06o-b9

WB F8 LunaLovegood LunaAtShellCottageLookingSad HPDH1-02884A

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-xenophilius-lovegood-4

It transpired that Luna had been taken hostage by the [Death Eaters](/collection/characters-deatheaters "Death Eaters"), setting up Xenophilius as a potential informant while punishing him for his pro-Potter stance. Xenophilius was clearly terrified, which brought him to make an awful decision – trade Harry for Luna’s life.

> ‘It’s Potter, I tell you, it’s Potter!’ sobbed Xenophilius. ‘Please ... please ... give me Luna, just let me have Luna ...’  
> ‘You can have your little girl, Lovegood,’ said Selwyn, ‘if you get up those stairs and bring me down Harry Potter. But if this is a plot, if it’s a trick, if you’ve got an accomplice waiting up there to ambush us, we’ll see if we can spare a bit of your daughter for you to bury.’ 
<br> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* </br>

We didn’t want to see Luna harmed either, and we knew what the Death Eaters were capable of (for example, [Frank](/features/frank-longbottom "Frank Longbottom") and [Alice Longbottom](/features/alice-longbottom "Alice Longbottom"). Some fates are worse than death). However, it was complicated – we also loved Harry, Ron and Hermione, who came to the [Lovegood house](/features/lovegood-house "Lovegood House") looking for help. We’d watched them endure hardship upon hardship and we knew they were the only ones who could save the world. Fortunately, they escaped, but how can we reconcile our understanding of his situation with what Xenophilius was prepared to do?

PMARCHIVE-WB ConceptArt Xenophilius Lovegood illustration3 4c0gvTPbGwCcqEqkCcIu0u-b5

WB ConceptArt Xenophilius Lovegood illustration3

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-xenophilius-lovegood-6

Logically, his decision made little sense. Did he really expect Luna, an outspoken ally of Harry Potter, to be freed with no further repercussions? That she’d go home to her daddy and they’d carry on their lives as normal in a Voldemort-dominated world? Not only had Xenophilius misjudged the situation, he’d also misjudged his daughter’s integrity and bravery. Was she the type to just give up the fight, go home and never breathe another word about her rebel friends for the rest of her days? Of course not. Luna would never risk her friends’ lives for her own, so it felt wrong for her father to do so on her behalf. 

But we must remember that Luna was all Xenophilius had after losing Luna’s mother, Pandora. All children are precious to their parents, but Luna represented so much to her father – she was all that was left of his wife and, from the sounds of it, his only remaining family. He couldn’t picture the world beyond Luna, because Luna was his world. 

Re-reading these chapters with hindsight reveals just how desperate Xenophilius had become and how conflicted he felt. He’d spent weeks trying to bargain with the Death Eaters for his daughter’s return, knowing his own work in *The Quibbler* caused her to be kidnapped in the first place. Suddenly, out of nowhere, the one thing that could free Luna suddenly appeared right on his doorstep. How unlikely was this opportunity? To someone like Xenophilius, this would almost seem like fate. If he was going to act, he would have to act fast…

PMARCHIVE-XenophiliusLovegood WB F7 XenophiliusLovegoodBeingAttackedByDementorsAtLovegoodHouse Still 080615 Land 4c0gvTPbGwCcqEqkCcIu0u-b7

XenophiliusLovegood WB F7 XenophiliusLovegoodBeingAttackedByDementorsAtLovegoodHouse Still 080615 Land

Xenophilius Lovegood being attacked by Dementors in the Deathly Hallows Part 1 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-xenophilius-lovegood-8

> Xenophilius looked ghastly, a century old, his lips drawn back into a dreadful leer.  
> ‘They will be here at any moment. I must save Luna. I cannot lose Luna. You must not leave.’  
> He spread his arms in front of the staircase, and Harry had a sudden vision of his mother doing the same thing in front of his cot. 
<br> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* </br>

That one man could throw away the last hope of wizardkind seems unthinkable. But to be blinded by pure love is something everyone, even Harry, can understand.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – a book of firsts

PMARCHIVE-Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – a book of firsts

PMARCHIVE-DiagonAlley PM B1C5M1 DiagonAlley V2 Moment 5BD11T5JNSqKwiyscoCA6U

DiagonAlley PM B1C5M1 DiagonAlley V2 Moment

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-harry-potter-and-the-philosophers-stone-a-book-of-firsts-0

PMARCHIVE-GryffindorCommonRoom PM B1C13M1 GryffindorCommonRoomFireplace Moment 3vIn3bJAXSGEAuaKsCsOYw

GryffindorCommonRoom PM B1C13M1 GryffindorCommonRoomFireplace Moment

The fireplace in the Gryffindor Common Room 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-harry-potter-and-the-philosophers-stone-a-book-of-firsts-2

An iconic moment, *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* boasted the very first utterance of a Gryffindor password. It was ‘Caput Draconis’ which is Latin for ‘dragon’s head’ and that definitely fits as a straightforward password for the common room.

But dig a little deeper and you’ll find that Caput Draconis is a key geomantic figure. Each figure embodies a particular state of the world, and Caput Draconis specifically means good fortune with starting or beginning new things.

It was Harry’s first day at Hogwarts and his first Gryffindor password meant ‘good luck with starting something new’. An interesting little connection that certainly flew over our heads. 

## First magical object

PMARCHIVE-WB F1 AlbusDumbledore DumbledoreUsingDeluminator 12114 26eVbzvhEYcQAEmoyAIWEE-b3

Albus Dumbledore using the Deluminator in Privet Drive

WB F1 AlbusDumbledore DumbledoreUsingDeluminator 12114

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-harry-potter-and-the-philosophers-stone-a-book-of-firsts-4

The first magical object we encountered was Dumbledore’s Deluminator – referred to then as a Put-Outer – which he used to ensure he and Professor McGonagall were shrouded in darkness when they went to drop off Harry at the Dursleys’. 

The Deluminator made a reappearance when Dumbledore bequeathed it to Ron in his will and Ron questioned why he in particular had received it. Naturally, we don’t know Dumbledore’s true intention, but Harry seemed to hit the nail on the head: 

> ‘I dunno,’ said Ron. ‘Sometimes I’ve thought, when I’ve been a bit hacked off, he was having a laugh or – or he just wanted to make it more difficult. But I don’t think so, not any more. He knew what he was doing when he gave me the Deluminator, didn’t he? He – well,’ Ron’s ears turned bright red and he became engrossed in a tuft of grass at his feet, which he prodded with his toe, ‘he must’ve known I’d run out on you.’
> ‘No,’ Harry corrected him. ‘He must’ve known you’d always want to come back.’<br>
> Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

A lovely bit of symbolism. 

## First class

PMARCHIVE-PotionsClassroom PM B2C11M1 PotionsClassroomStoreroom Moment 26eVbzvhEYcQAEmoyAIWEE-b5

PotionsClassroom PM B2C11M1 PotionsClassroomStoreroom Moment

The potion class storeroom from the Chamber of Secrets 

TRENDING SEARCHES

Features