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

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__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

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

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## 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…’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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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.'

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Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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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...’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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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.’

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Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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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!’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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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.'

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Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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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.’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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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.’

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Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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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!’

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Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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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.’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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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

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## 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 we wish we’d seen more of Hagrid and Madame Maxime

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Hagrid and Madame Maxime slow dance together.

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Hagrid was such a gem to everyone around him, a fierce defender of the underdog and, as it happens, [a rather fun teacher](/image/hagrids-first-lesson). He always put others before himself – but we never got much of a glimpse into Hagrid’s own personal life. That was, until a certain Beauxbatons headmistress visited Hogwarts…

> They couldn’t hear what Hagrid was saying, but he was talking to Madame Maxime with a rapt, misty-eyed expression Harry had only ever seen him wear once before – when he had been looking at the baby dragon, Norbert.
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

Hagrid almost immediately hit it off with Madame Maxime, a woman after his own heart and nearly his equal (in size, anyway, thanks to Maxime’s half-giant heritage). To make a good impression he even slapped on a bit of Eau de Cologne and a pretty unpleasant artichoke-like lapel flower, much to Harry, Ron and Hermione’s amusement. 

Bless Hagrid’s heart, he even had the idea to take Madame Maxime to visit the dragons taking part in the Triwizard Tournament. Then the pair had a little waltz during the Yule Ball and were, frankly, adorable. It looked like their relationship was really going somewhere.

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Unfortunately, things started to go a bit pear-shaped when Hagrid, albeit well-intentioned, offended Maxime by acknowledging her half-giant status. 

> ‘'Ow dare you!’ shrieked Madame Maxime. Her voice exploded through the peaceful night air like a foghorn; behind him, Harry heard Fleur and Roger fall out of their rose bush. ‘I ’ave nevair been more insulted in my life! ’Alf-giant? Moi? I ’ave – I ’ave big bones!’
 *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

In the end they made up, and even embarked on a trip to the giant colonies to try to prevent them from siding with Voldemort. But fate pushed the pair apart once more when Hagrid vowed to take Grawp back with him and Maxime returned home alone. After that we never saw the pair together again, but given that Hagrid stopped referring to her, we can assume their relationship didn’t continue.

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An illustration of Grawp offering flowers to Hermione

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What was so incredibly sweet about Maxime and Hagrid’s flirtation was that it was among the happiest we’d ever seen Hagrid. [He was generally an upbeat guy](/features/times-hagrid-saw-the-best-in-things), but faced with a potential relationship (with just how close the pair seemed, it wouldn’t have been a surprise to hear wedding bells), Hagrid was a new kind of bashful and giddy. 

> ‘Yeah, tha’s righ’,’ said Hagrid, and a softened expression appeared on the few inches of face that were not obscured by beard or green steak. ‘Yeah, it was jus’ the pair of us. An’ I’ll tell yeh this, she’s not afraid of roughin’ it, Olympe. Yeh know, she’s a fine, well-dressed woman, an’ knowin’ where we was goin’ I wondered ’ow she’d feel abou’ clamberin’ over boulders an’ sleepin’ in caves an’ tha’, bu’ she never complained once.’
 *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

What was so lovely with Maxime and Hagrid was that we got to see Hagrid try to be an old-school gent. Pulling out his ratty suit – yup, the brown hairy one – to impress his new sweetheart was another touching example of Hagrid’s enormous heart. His shambolic approach to romance was so characteristically him, it only made us love him even more. 

> Hagrid was sitting at one of the other staff tables; he was back in his horrible hairy brown suit, and gazing up at the top table. Harry saw him give a small wave and, looking around, saw Madame Maxime return it, her opals glittering in the candlelight.
 *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

Hagrid’s burgeoning romance also led him to do something we hadn’t seen before – [discuss his childhood](/book-extract-long/not-so-little-brother). Typically, Harry and Ron eavesdropped on his conversation (inadvertently this time), as did Rita Skeeter (boo, hiss!), but Hagrid believed he was spilling his guts to just Madame Maxime. It was a sign of how smitten he was that he was willing to talk to her quite intimately about his personal life. 

We learned how he was abandoned by his mother at a young age and how she was one of the last remaining giants in Britain as well as the surprising news (well, to Ron at least) that Hagrid was half-giant. It was a sweet build-up to his reference to Madame Maxime’s giant origins, and it’s sad that she took it the wrong way – although Hagrid wasn’t wrong, she *was* a half-giantess.

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Hagrid looking sad before the execution of Buckbeak

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Hagrid deserved personal happiness because [all his kindly acts were predominantly in service of other people (or animals)](/features/how-to-live-like-rubeus-hagrid). It was high time he found some joy of his own, and he more or less found that in Madame Maxime who, despite their class differences, thought him as sweet as Harry, Ron and Hermione did. 

At Carnegie Hall in 2007, J.K. Rowling later confirmed that Hagrid did not marry. ‘Because with the giants killing each other off, the number of giantesses around is infinitesimal and he met one of the only ones, I’m afraid…’ she said. ‘She thought he was kind of cute, but she was a little more – how should I put it – sophisticated than Hagrid. So no, bless him.’ 

More’s the pity.

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

The top 5 fathers of the Harry Potter stories

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Arthur Weasley leads the group to the Portkey.

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Here are the most preferable Potter patriarchs. 

## Lyall Lupin

Yes, you may be surprised to see Lyall here, seeing as it was due to his unfortunate run-ins with [Fenrir Greyback](/features/fenrir-greyback "Fenrir Greyback") that [Remus Lupin](/writing-by-jk-rowling/remus-lupin "Remus Lupin by J.K. Rowling") first became a [werewolf](/features/werewolves "Werewolves"). But this kind man, who married a [Muggle](/collection/muggles "Muggles"), spent his entire life looking for a cure for his son – and loving him, despite his lycanthropic little problem that he inadvertently caused. Suffice to say, Lyall made a mistake getting on the wrong side of Fenrir, but never stopped seeking redemption. 

## Xenophilius Lovegood

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His parenting techniques might have been somewhat ad hoc, but there is no denying that [Xenophilius](/features/xenophilius-lovegood "Xenophilius Lovegood") did all he could to be a good father to [Luna](/features/luna-lovegood "Luna Lovegood"). He raised her, mostly, alone, he guarded her from Wrackspurts, and even if he did bring paraphernalia into their home that could have blown them both apart, *he didn’t mean to,* and that’s the main thing. Betrayal of the Chosen One isn’t something we’d usually highlight as a laudable quality in a wizard (it’s actually largely frowned upon, except by certain [Slytherins](/collection/characters-slytherins "Slytherins")) but the depth of his devotion to his unusual daughter was highlighted in *Deathly Hallows,* where he orchestrated the near capture of Harry in a desperate attempt to save Luna. 

> ‘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.’		
> Xenophilius gave a wail of fear and despair. There were scurryings and scrapings: Xenophilius was trying to get through the debris on the stairs. 
 *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* 

## James Potter

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Harry Potter as a child with a toy broomstick, Lily and James Potter as adults. Also featured is the unnamed cat of the Potter family. 

Potter family tree featuring Harry Potter, James Potter and Lily Potter with the family cat

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[James](/features/james-potter "James Potter") was deprived of his chance to be a proper father to Harry, dying at the hands of [Voldemort](/features/lord-voldemort "Lord Voldemort") as he attempted to defend his [wife](/features/lily-potter "Lily Potter") and infant son. The mere fact of his self-sacrifice would have been enough to get him on this list, but even after death he proved himself to be a devoted guardian to [Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter"). He appeared to him in the [Mirror of Erised](/features/the-mirror-of-erised "The Mirror of Erised"), the manifestation of Harry’s heart’s desire; he emerged from the tip of Voldemort’s wand and even as a shadow attempted to help his only offspring survive; and the [Resurrection Stone](/features/resurrection-stone "Resurrection Stone") brought him back for a final time, when he gave Harry the strength he needed to survive his last, terrible battle. 

Even Harry would roll his eyes at the idea that James lived on in him – but it’s true, and we need only look to [Snape’s](/features/severus-snape "Severus Snape") unabated loathing as proof. 

## Amos Diggory

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Cedric and Amos before the final Triwizard Challenge.

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Never was there a prouder, or more annoying father than [Amos Diggory](/features/amos-diggory "Amos Diggory"). [Cedric](/features/cedric-diggory "Cedric Diggory") might have been humble, but Amos wasn’t afraid to sing out his praises, loud and proud. His haughty support of Cedric was his defining characteristic, shining through in every aggravating word, but your heart couldn’t help but break in the final chapters of *Goblet of Fire,* as he made his way through the crowd to the dead body of his son. 

> ‘Ced’s talked about you, of course,’ said Amos Diggory. ‘Told us all about playing against you last year ... I said to him, I said – Ced, that’ll be something to tell your grandchildren, that will ... you beat Harry Potter!’						
> Harry couldn’t think of any reply to this, so he remained silent. Fred and George were both scowling again. Cedric looked slightly embarrassed.	 		
> ‘Harry fell off his broom, Dad,’ he muttered. ‘I told you ... it was an accident ...’ 
> ‘Yes, but you didn’t fall off, did you?’ roared Amos genially, slapping his son on his back. ‘Always modest, our Ced, always the gentleman ... but the best man won, I’m sure Harry’d say the same, wouldn’t you, eh? One falls off his broom, one stays on, you don’t need to be a genius to tell which one’s the better flier!’			
 *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

## Arthur Weasley

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Illustration of Arthur Weasley from the second Order of the Phoenix infographic

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The best wizarding world dad we know of is the man who sired [a whole flamed-haired brood](/collection/the-weasley-family "The Weasley Family"), survived a [snake](/features/nagini "Nagini") attack, and loved Muggle-kind where other wizards loathed them. Step forward, [Arthur Weasley](/features/arthur-weasley "Arthur Weasley"). 

Arthur might be a touch scatterbrained and a teeny bit Muggle-obsessed, but none of that ever stopped him from being the best father he could be. Leaving aside the fact he failed to notice that his sons had stolen his malfunctioning [flying car](/feature/the-flying-ford-anglia "Behind the scenes: creating the flying Ford Anglia"), and were making things explode in their bedroom, Arthur spent his entire existence working hard for his family. It’s testament to his fantastic fathering that he managed to lend his likeness to no fewer than seven siblings – and that none of them turned out terrible. 

…Well, [Percy](/features/percy-weasley "Percy Weasley") had his moments.
										
> ‘We have a very different idea of what disgraces the name of wizard, Malfoy,’ he said.	 
> ‘Clearly,’ said Mr Malfoy, his pale eyes straying to Mr and Mrs Granger, who were watching apprehensively. ‘The company you keep, Weasley ... and I thought your family could sink no lower –’ 	
> There was a thud of metal as Ginny’s cauldron went flying; Mr Weasley had thrown himself at Mr Malfoy, knocking him backwards into a bookshelf. Dozens of heavy spellbooks came thundering down on all their heads; there was a yell of ‘Get him, Dad!’ from Fred or George; Mrs Weasley was shrieking, ‘No, Arthur, no!’; the crowd stampeded backwards, knocking more shelves over; ‘Gentlemen, please – please!’ cried the assistant and then, louder than all, ‘Break it up, there, gents, break it up –’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

The best five fathers of the Harry Potter stories

How to survive a Quidditch match 

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Harry is being chased by the rogue bludger during quidditch  

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To be quite perfectly honest, if we played Quidditch and managed to complete an entire match, we wouldn’t care who won – we’d be the ones cheering with jubilation that we’re still actually alive at the end of it. After all, there are 700 fouls listed in a standard Quidditch match – not to mention two nasty Bludgers with no consciences. So how do witches and wizards actually survive a Quidditch game? Well, here’s a few ideas that might buy them a bit of time...

## Be nice to the players who have the ability to bat a giant iron ball at you 

> ‘Er – have the Bludgers ever killed anyone?’ Harry asked, hoping he sounded offhand. 
> ‘Never at Hogwarts. We’ve had a couple of broken jaws but nothing worse than that. Now, the last member of the team is the Seeker. That’s you. And you don’t have to worry about the Quaffle or the Bludgers –’ 
> ‘– unless they crack my head open.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

While Muggle football teams have attacking midfielders, Quidditch teams have team members who actually try to attack you. We are, of course, talking about the Beaters. Now, we’re not saying you need to make best friends with them or anything, but let’s just say you don’t want to be on the wrong side of the folks with the giant bats. As any Quidditch connoisseur will know, the Beaters’ job is to bat the bewitched Bludgers away from their own team and direct them at the other – but sometimes they have been known to use their positions to take out some of their personal frustrations.

Take the time Vincent Crabbe whacked a Bludger at Harry because he’d had the audacity to actually win the match, for example. Fred and George have also been known to take advantage of their positions – once hitting a Bludger at temporary referee, Severus Snape, just because it was Severus Snape.

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## Don’t lust after the other players 

> ‘HARRY, THIS IS NO TIME TO BE A GENTLEMAN!’ Wood roared, as Harry swerved to avoid a collision. ‘KNOCK HER OFF HER BROOM IF YOU HAVE TO!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*

You know that old song, 'Love is in the Air'? Well, don’t let it be. Quidditch is an incredibly dangerous sport, and if you get distracted, you will either risk losing the match or, once again, get hit by a Bludger. (You could argue that the Bludgers are the real problem, but let’s not argue with the rules.) 

Now, Harry is a chief culprit of getting lovelorn on the pitch, falling for not just Cho Chang, the Ravenclaw Seeker, but Ginny Weasley, his fellow Gryffindor team mate, during various Quidditch matches. And yes, on both occasions, Harry either got yelled at by Oliver Wood or got hit by Bludgers multiple times for checking out the ladies. Save it for the ground, Harry!

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Illustration of Ginny Weasley playing Quidditch, by Jessica Roux

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## Don’t do any dangerous stunts if Professor Lockhart happens to be nearby  

Yes, in any sport, being competitive is a given, but is winning more important than suddenly not having an arm?! Well, maybe you disagree. Harry has gone to insane lengths to secure the winning Snitch during Quidditch matches, putting himself in danger many times. In his first match, he nearly choked on the thing, for example.

Then there was the time he insisted on going for it despite some heavily pouring rain and having just been hit by a Bludger. You know how this story ends: he broke his arm, and then Professor Lockhart made it worse by actually removing the bones. On this occasion, we’ll give Harry the benefit of the doubt – how was he to know that his supposedly legit Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher was actually awful? But just bear in mind that when playing Quidditch: try and stay away from morons.

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Madam Pomfrey tends to Harry with Skele-Gro after Lockhart removes all the bones in Harry's arm

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## Or you could just take up another hobby…

Wait, why are we even suggesting playing Quidditch in the first place when we could all be at home reading magazines about knitting patterns?! You don’t get safer than that – and not a Bludger in sight. Problem solved! 

(Just be careful around those knitting needles now, won’t you?)

Which is better: The Quibbler vs the Daily Prophet?

PMARCHIVE-Which is better: The Quibbler vs the Daily Prophet?

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Luna with her Spectre Specs holding the Quibbler  

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Just like Muggles, a witch or wizard also fancies a sit-down with a cup of tea and a newspaper or magazine from time to time. We saw quite a few of these wizarding world publications (from Which Broomstick? to Witch Weekly) but the two we learnt most about were the Daily Prophet, and the more, er, unconventional news source, The Quibbler. 

Both publications perform important roles during Harry Potter’s story: while the Daily Prophet seemed to be the ‘go-to’ wizarding newspaper that pretty much everyone read, The Quibbler was the more eccentric choice, edited by Luna Lovegood’s dad, Xenophilius, who preferred to report on Crumple-Horned Snorkacks rather than, you know, actual news.

But if you were a wizard, what would you grab for? Here’s our case for each of these very different examples of wizarding journalism. 

## The case for the Daily Prophet 

So the Daily Prophet was, seemingly, the most popular newspaper in the wizarding community – at least in the UK, at any rate. We never really saw any other newspapers, which put the Daily Prophet in a very powerful position. Harry and his friends swore by the newspaper for information – but sadly, it wasn’t always the most reliable. 

### Pros

For any wizard, getting a regular subscription to the Daily Prophet seemed obvious – if you wanted to learn about recent break-ins at Gringotts or gossip on Gilderoy Lockhart – the newspaper seemed like a good all-rounder. Major news stories were often broken by the paper, whether it was the attack at the Quidditch World Cup or the escape of several dangerous Death Eaters from Azkaban.

Certain characters really benefited from it too. For example, the Weasleys won a very welcome seven hundred Galleons from the newspaper’s prize draw, and as a consequence of that, had their photo taken for the paper. If that hadn’t happened, Sirius Black wouldn’t have spotted Scabbers, Ron’s ‘rat’ in the photo, and known how to track down the treacherous Peter Pettigrew. All in all, the paper was incredibly visible, useful and important. However… 

### Cons

Alas, with such a big responsibility to provide major news to the wizarding world, the Prophet was often susceptible to interference from outside sources – such as the Ministry of Magic. And the newspaper’s legitimacy could also be questioned thanks to its acid-tongued (or acid-quilled) gossip journalist Rita Skeeter, who preferred to let her Quick-Quotes Quill bend the truth for a good story or quote, rather than be totally honest. Rita’s nasty eye for a scoop led to Hagrid being ‘outed’ as a half-giant, and Harry becoming the face of many tabloid scandals during the Triwizard Tournament.

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But the Prophet’s major downfall came during the rise of Lord Voldemort. Convinced the Dark wizard had not returned, Cornelius Fudge was determined to shut down any news of the uprising, leading to the Daily Prophet becoming untrustworthy. Things took an even worse turn when Voldemort did take over, and the Daily Prophet actually became controlled by his followers. Suddenly, suspicious deaths started getting covered up, and Harry Potter was named as a target ‘wanted for questioning about the death of Albus Dumbledore’. The Daily Prophet may have been a powerful newspaper, but taken into the wrong hands it became a dangerous tool for Voldemort. Basically, the whole thing went very 1984. 

## The case for The Quibbler

The Quibbler wasn’t very accurate, but at least it always seemed to have its heart in the right place. We were first introduced to it in *Order of the Phoenix*, when Luna was seen reading it upside down. That says it all, really.

### Pros

If wizards wanted the basic facts, they would (usually) go to the Daily Prophet. But what if you want something a bit more fun to read on the commute? With cool features, hilarious stories and free Spectrespecs, there was never a dull moment with The Quibbler, edited by the equally eccentric Xenophilius Lovegood.

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Harry Potter Colouring Book Quibbler page

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Although Hermione may have dismissed it as being ‘rubbish’, the magazine certainly made people smile, such as the piece about Sirius Black being a secret singing sensation – the nicest bit of coverage poor Sirius had had in years. When Harry went to The Quibbler to talk about Lord Voldemort’s rising, the magazine published the interview, finally getting Harry’s message out to the wizarding world, finally getting people to believe him. The Lovegoods were targeted by the Death Eaters as a result, but it was the right thing to do in the face of darkness when so many people didn't believe it.

### Cons

Well, for one thing, apparently people didn’t get paid to write for The Quibbler, which isn’t cool. But the major con of the poor Quibbler was that it wasn’t taken very seriously for a long, long time. When Harry gave his tell-all interview to the magazine, it was the first time we saw the publication deliver some actual, proper journalism – even if that did have to come from resident hack Rita Skeeter. It was progress, for sure. But we wonder if the naïve Xenophilius Lovegood would have continued to carry on down that editorial road.

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

WB F7 Xenophilius Lovegood drawing Deathly Hallows HPDH1-04001

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## And the winner is…  

After much deliberation, we appreciate the quirks and good nature of The Quibbler more, even if it was definitely not the most accurate news source in the world. But at least, in the face of Voldemort, it fought for integrity and truth in a time of great darkness. 

Plus – free Spectrespecs, guys!

Unconventional heroes of the wizarding world

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Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander in 'Fantastic Beasts'

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You might say the wizarding world is a breeding ground for heroism. Whether by the extraordinary circumstances that come with the ability (and responsibility) to do magic, or by necessity, thanks to the persistent rise of evil in those who place too much store in power. Characters far beyond the Boy Who Lived subverted our expectations of heroism at every turn.

Sure, Harry walked the hero’s journey as the Chosen One, but he was far from the only hero in the books worth talking about. And there are different ways of showcasing bravery in the face of adversity.

## The sensitivity of Newt Scamander 

Take, for instance, the newest hero in the wizarding world, Newt Scamander. Newt is not a character thrust into action by some sort of unnatural call to adventure. He is a Magizoologist on a personal mission to learn more about his beloved fantastic beasts. He wasn't trying to make an entrance into the larger political landscape; if anything, [he was attempting to avoid detection](/news/introducing-newt-scamander-fantastic-beasts). 

Where many traditional heroes would be assured and authoritative, Newt is more insightful and nurturing - even introverted. An outcast, he is motivated not by courage but by empathy, a trait that makes him a rather singular hero. Although we know Newt can wield a wand and do battle as much as a Dumbledore or a Harry can, Newt mostly thrives through sensitivity and kindness. 

In the first *Fantastic Beasts* film, Newt’s great journey was an emotional one, as much as a physical one. As he worked with Tina, Jacob and Queenie to recapture his fantastic beasts and solve the mystery, Newt learnt to connect with other humans in a way he’d only previously connected with animals. It’s not the kind of slam-bang victory your average caped hero would win, but it was a strikingly powerful triumph for the unassuming Hufflepuff. It’ll be interesting to see how his journey develops…

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Newt Scamander and Tina Goldstein share a moment as he tucks her hair behind her ear

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Newt Scamander tucks Tina Goldstein's hair behind her ear in a tender moment at the port

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## The slow sacrifices of Severus Snape

Snape’s subtle path from menacing Potions master to tragic sacrificial hero is one of the longest gestating storylines in the entire Harry Potter series, and one that still divides fans to this day.

Snape lived a life of spite and solitude – certainly not traits we could define as 'heroic'. But it can't be denied that Snape's ultimate sacrifice was brave and a huge departure from his cruel, former self. The secret to his success as a double agent was a quiet passion that fuelled his purpose for life over the course of many long and lonely years, during which time he protected the son of his school nemesis as a kind of self-imposed punishment for his failure to [save his long-lost love from a terrible fate](/features/unsung-heroes-of-harry-potter-stories-lily-potter). It’s a gesture so pure and devastating that it smacks of Shakespearean drama. 

Snape's death wasn't particularly heroic in the traditional sense either. Rather than dying dauntlessly in battle, Lord Voldemort only killed Snape after making an incorrect assumption, and  sent Nagini to do the dirty work. His death was particularly tragic as Harry only realised Snape’s secret turmoil after he died. This is one deep cover agent who won no glory playing his part in Voldemort's eventual demise. He also earnt Harry's respect, after years of despising his former professor.

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## The persistent brilliance of Hermione Granger

Hermione once told Harry that 'books and cleverness' were not as important as friendship and bravery. However, books and cleverness did help an awful lot. Although Hermione certainly played her part in the Battle of Hogwarts, it was her unabashed love of learning and her unerring ability to slip out of a sticky situation on the strength of her logic and intelligence that defined her. 

What’s more, Hermione was rarely without a mission to help others. From her crucial part in saving Buckbeak to her relentless campaign for elf rights, Hermione never wavered in her work to make the world a better place, even as she tackled the most unreasonable course-load Hogwarts had ever seen. Hermione taught us that it's okay to celebrate your intelligence – despite being mocked by Ron or called an ['insufferable know-it-all'](/features/things-you-may-not-have-noticed-about-hermione) by Snape. And thank Merlin she was so smart – we wonder if Harry would ever have defeated Voldemort without her help.

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## The quiet suffering of Remus Lupin

An outcast among wizards and werewolves alike, Remus Lupin was the long-suffering hero few saw coming. His sleepy debut on the Hogwarts Express, with his shabby robes and battered briefcase, drew up certain expectations quite quickly, but Remus was just as quick to surpass them. By both [taking down a Dementor and then handing out blocks of chocolate](/writing-by-jk-rowling/dementors-and-chocolate) straight afterwards, Remus revealed himself to not just be a valiant wizard, but a compassionate one. And despite most of the wizarding world shunning him due to his werewolf status, Remus was an empathetic figure that brought a lot of much-needed kindness to Harry’s life. By teaching Harry that he was not ‘weak’ for being affected by the Dementors, Remus showed us that bravery can be a very nuanced thing - and that it was okay for Harry to react in the way he did.

After struggling with prejudice for most of his adult life, Remus still succeeded in being the best Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher Harry ever had, and an incredibly valuable member of the Order of the Phoenix. Remus may not have been as vigorous as Mad-Eye Moody or Sirius - but he used his calmness, intelligence and gentle nature to great effect nonetheless. Remus's more level-headed approach to the wizarding war was much needed, as Harry was not exactly the calmest of people himself.

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## The gradual rise of Neville Longbottom

Neville seriously struggled in his early years as a wizard – with even his family wondering if he was a Squib. After a few years of struggling at school, melting cauldrons, losing his toad Trevor and being the target of many of Professor Snape’s jibes, Neville’s later transformation was inspirational. As a first year, he tried (and failed) to keep his impetuous friends in line. As a seventh year, he mounted a low-key rebellion and grabbed Godric Gryffindor’s sword out of the Sorting Hat just in time to finish Nagini in the Battle of Hogwarts. Neville gradually grew into his abilities to become the hero Hogwarts needed, exactly when they needed him. Of all of the characters in the books, [Neville's climb to the top was perhaps one of the most impressive](/features/6-reasons-neville-longbottom-was-just-as-brave-as-harry-potter).

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Neville at Hogwarts from the Deathly Hallows 

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## The unexpected wisdom of Luna Lovegood

The girl who taught Harry, Ron and Hermione about Wrackspurts and Nargles while wearing earrings fashioned out of radishes definitely didn't strike us as one of the books' most valiant characters, but Luna proved us all wrong. Much like Lupin, Luna's calm approach to the world was a welcome contrast to Harry's zeal and hot temper – in fact, [she was the only one to calm him down in the wake of Sirius's death](/features/chapter-that-made-us-fall-in-love-with-luna-lovegood). Luna's ethereal wisdom may not have been everyone's cup of tea, but her originality and optimism were just what we needed in the middle of a wizarding war.

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