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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

6 times Fred and George’s pranks went too far

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Loveable scamps [Fred](/features/fred-weasley "Fred Weasley") and [George Weasley](/features/george-weasley "George Weasley") are two of our favourite characters from the Harry Potter series… but they terrorised and nearly murdered their fellow [Hogwarts](/features/hogwarts "Hogwarts") students. How adorable! Here are a few occasions when Fred and George should have maybe known when to stop… 

## Selling Draco Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder

Given the troubling times, the twins should really have put up a ‘[Draco Malfoys](/features/draco-malfoy "Draco Malfoy") not allowed’ sign in [Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes](/features/weasleys-wizard-wheezes "Weasleys‘ Wizard Wheezes"). In *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,* Draco used their shop’s stock to create instant darkness while letting [Death Eaters](/collection/characters-deatheaters "Death Eaters") into Hogwarts, thus preventing [Dumbledore’s Army](/collection/dumbledores-army "Dumbledore’s Army") from fighting them out of the school. 

> ‘Anyway,’ Ginny went on, ‘he must have been checking whether the coast was clear to let the Death Eaters out, because the moment he saw us he threw something into the air and it all went pitch black–’ 
> ‘–Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder,‘ said Ron bitterly. ‘Fred and George’s. I’m going to be having a word with them about who they let buy their products.’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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## Transfiguring Ron’s teddy into a spider

When it came to [Ron’s](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") pathological fear of spiders, there was one person to blame: Fred Weasley. After seeing spiders behave in an odd fashion, a deeply uncomfortable Ron revealed to [Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter") and [Hermione](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger") exactly what had happened to give him lifelong arachnophobia.

>‘It’s not funny,’ said Ron, fiercely. ‘If you must know, when I was three, Fred turned my – my teddy bear into a dirty great spider because I broke his toy broomstick. You wouldn’t like them either if you’d been holding your bear and suddenly it had too many legs and…’ 
>He broke off, shuddering. 
 *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets* 

Fred, it was a *toy.* Honestly!

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Illustration of a Acromantula from the new edition of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

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## They fed Harry’s already-abusive family member Ton-Tongue Toffee

We always enjoyed it when Harry’s wizard friends casually wreaked havoc on the [Dursleys](/collection/the-dursley "The Dursley Family") because it was nothing less than they deserved. However, when [the Weasley family](/collection/the-weasley-family "The Weasley Family") destroyed their living room while trying to visit Harry via [Floo powder](/writing-by-jk-rowling/floo-powder "Floo Powder by J.K. Rowling"), [Dudley](/features/dudley-dursley "Dudley Dursley") ended up getting a foot-long tongue after eating Fred and George’s carefully dropped sweets. 

> Harry wheeled around. Dudley was no longer standing behind his parents. He was kneeling beside the coffee table, and he was gagging and spluttering on a foot-long, purple, slimy thing that was protruding from his mouth. 
 *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

This time, the boys went too far. Not only did this sort of thing do nothing to help Harry with his terrible home life, but as [Mr Weasley](/features/arthur-weasley "Arthur Weasley") pointed out, it also meant that the Dursleys weren’t about to soften up towards wizardkind because of their antics (not that they would have anyway, admittedly). 

>‘It isn’t funny!’ Mr Weasley shouted. ‘That sort of behaviour seriously undermines wizard-Muggle relations! I spend half my life campaigning against the mistreatment of Muggles, and my own sons –’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

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The Weasleys burst through the Dursley's fireplace.

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## Montague and the Vanishing Cabinet 

We’re not saying that Montague didn’t deserve to go head-first into that [Vanishing Cabinet](/features/vanishing-cabinet "Vanishing Cabinet"), courtesy of the twins. After all, he had been throwing his weight around as a member of the Inquisitorial Squad, and had attempted to deduct [house points](/feature/a-handy-history-of-hogwarts-house-points-infographic "A Handy History of Hogwarts House Points") from the pair. However, the move was nearly fatal for him – he was badly injured after trying to escape by Apparating without a licence, and ended up lodged in a toilet. He was spotted by Harry being spoon-fed by [Madam Pomfrey](/features/madam-pomfrey "Madam Pomfrey") weeks, (yes, WEEKS) after the initial incident. 

Despite causing Montague serious harm, the twins were entirely unconcerned by their actions, a move that seems a little worrying. After all, even [James](/features/james-potter "James Potter") went to [Snape’s](/features/severus-snape "Severus Snape") aid when [Sirius](/features/sirius-black "Sirius Black") suggested he visit the [Shrieking Shack](/features/shrieking-shack "The Shrieking Shack") on the night of a full moon. And Montague was missing for weeks! Why weren’t the twins arrested? 

The twins’ behaviour also proved to be a terrible move because Montague later relayed the experience to Draco, giving Draco the epiphany that there were two linked Vanishing Cabinets connecting [Borgin and Burkes](/features/borgin-and-burkes "Borgin and Burkes") to Hogwarts. This ended up providing him with the perfect way to get Death Eaters to infiltrate the school. 

>‘He never managed to get all the words out, due to the fact that we forced him head-first into that Vanishing Cabinet on the first floor.’ 
> Hermione looked very shocked. 
> ‘But you’ll get into terrible trouble!’ 
> ‘Not until Montague reappears, and that could take weeks, I dunno where we sent him,’ said Fred coolly. 
 *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

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The vanishing cabinet in the Room of Requirement  

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## Ron’s Unbreakable Vow 

Fred and George once tried to make Ron take an [Unbreakable Vow](/features/unbreakable-vow "Unbreakable Vow") as children. Shockingly, this would have meant certain death if Ron hadn’t fulfilled whatever it was they were trying to get him to promise – we can only imagine what they’d chosen! Chances are that the twins didn’t fully know what they were doing either (being only about seven at the time), but being part of a wizard family means they definitely should have known better than to do any underage magic at all! Luckily Arthur caught them at the last minute, or who knows what could have happened? 

> ‘An Unbreakable Vow?’ said Ron, looking stunned. ‘Nah, he can’t have... are you sure?’ 
> ‘Yes, I’m sure,’ said Harry. ‘Why, what does it mean?’ 
> ‘Well, you can’t break an Unbreakable Vow…’ 
> ‘I’d worked that much out for myself, funnily enough. What happens if you break it, then?’ 
> ‘You die,’ said Ron simply. ‘Fred and George tried to get me to make one when I was about five. I nearly did, too, I was holding hands with Fred and everything when Dad found us. He went mental,’ said Ron, with a reminiscent gleam in his eyes. ‘Only time I’ve ever seen Dad as angry as Mum. Fred reckons his left buttock has never been the same since.’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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## Feeding sickness sweets to first-year students

As [Hermione](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger") rightly said, the twins (and [Lee Jordan](/features/lee-jordan "Lee Jordan")) had no right to feed their Skiving Snackboxes to first-year [Gryffindors](/collection/characters-gryffindors "Gryffindors") to test them out. In most educational establishments across the world, using younger students for experimental trials is generally frowned upon, and this case is no different. 

Although nobody was harmed in the end, the pair weren’t 100 per cent sure that everyone would have the same reaction to the sweets; which is probably why only first-year students joined the trials, because they didn’t know any better! It’s a good thing that Hermione was around to threaten to tell [the twins’ mother](/features/molly-weasley "Molly Weasley"), thus getting them to behave themselves. 

> ‘Excellent,’ said Fred happily, but the next second Hermione had snatched both his clipboard and the paper bag of Fainting Fancies from his hands. 
> ‘It is NOT excellent!’ 
> ‘Course it is, they’re alive, aren’t they?’ said Fred angrily. 
> ‘You can’t do this, what if you made one of them really ill?’ 
> ‘We’re not going to make them ill, we’ve already tested them all on ourselves, this is just to see if everyone reacts the same –’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

When you think about it, the boys were lucky to have gotten away with what they did! Casually instilling lifelong phobias, ruining [Slytherin](/collection/characters-slytherins "Slytherins") lives (not to mention accidentally aiding [Voldemort](/features/lord-voldemort "Lord Voldemort")) and using other students for experiments weren’t exactly their finest moments. It’s a good thing they were so loveable the rest of the time...

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Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

In defence of Griphook

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Okay, admittedly Griphook was spiky, cranky and rather mistrusting. But, in his defence, we do suspect Griphook had his reasons. 

## A tough profession

The first time we met the goblins in the wizarding world was when Hagrid took Harry to Gringotts to collect his gold to buy his uniform. Harry was astounded. Goblins. Who knew? It was the first time we met Griphook, for it was he who took Harry to his vault and handed Hagrid the Philosopher’s Stone. It was also our first glimpse into his personality.

> ‘If anyone but a Gringotts goblin tried that, they’d be sucked through the door and trapped in there,’ said Griphook. 
> ‘How often do you check to see if anyone’s inside?’ Harry asked. 
> ‘About once every ten years,’ said Griphook, with a rather nasty grin. 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

So you’re thinking, well, that’s hardly defending Griphook is it? But wait for it. It was his job to deter thieves (let’s not forget that Harry ends up as one, later on) and the vaults are secure not only thanks to magic and dragons, but because of their surly reputation. If everybody thinks Gringotts is impossible to break into, then they are less likely to try their luck. Griphook was just doing his job.

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## Goblins didn’t have it easy

Next up, let’s take a walk through the history books and remember the goblin rebellions. In *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*, the goblin rebellions of the 18th century were a hot topic from Professor Binns, who taught the class about the discrimination goblins used to suffer in the wizarding world.

And, from the sounds of things, certain distaste for the creatures still lingers. During the books, goblins are spoken about appallingly throughout. Red Caps are described as ‘nasty little goblin-like creatures’, Winky refers to Dobby’s behaviour as if he is a ‘common goblin’ and goblins are frequently referred to in negative terms. Especially in the case of Ludo Bagman and his shenanigans in the *Goblet of Fire* – they are dark-eyed and angry, and at the end Ludo makes a run for it and George says the goblins play as dirty as he does. Again, disparaging remarks which really seem unfair.

Now let’s slip back to the goblin rebellions.

> ‘I’m sure they’d never go over to You-Know-Who,’ said Mr Weasley, shaking his head. ‘They’ve suffered losses too; remember that goblin family he murdered last time, somewhere near Nottingham?’ 
> ‘I think it depends what they’re offered,’ said Lupin. ‘And I’m not talking about gold. If they’re offered the freedoms we’ve been denying them for centuries they’re going to be tempted. Have you still not had any luck with Ragnok, Bill?’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

Do you still think Griphook is indefensible? His theft of the sword and abandonment of Harry, Ron and Hermione still utterly reprehensible? Well, it is, but perhaps not as horrible as the way goblins have been treated and their lives lost because of wizard prejudice. How about this for cementing a certain lack of fondness for wizard lives…

> Halfway down the hall was a fountain. A group of golden statues, larger than life-size, stood in the middle of a circular pool. Tallest of them all was a noble-looking wizard with his wand pointing straight up in the air. Grouped around him were a beautiful witch, a centaur, a goblin and a house-elf. The last three were all looking adoringly up at the witch and wizard. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

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Griphook holds the Sword of Gryffindor at Shell Cottage. 

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In *Deathly Hallows* we reconnected with Griphook. He hadn’t teamed up with Voldemort or betrayed anyone - he was on the run and helping Ted, Tonks’s father. The goblins wouldn’t bow to the so-called superiority of the wizards now in charge of Gringotts. And Griphook made sure that their departure did not go unnoticed…

>‘Oh, yes. It is a copy – an excellent copy, it is true – but it was wizard-made. The original was forged centuries ago by goblins and had certain properties only goblin-made armour possesses. Wherever the genuine sword of Gryffindor is, it is not in a vault at Gringotts Bank.’  
> ‘I see,’ said Ted. ‘And I take it you didn’t bother telling the Death Eaters this?’  
> ‘I saw no reason to trouble them with the information,’ said Griphook smugly, and now Ted and Dean joined in Gornuk and Dirk’s laughter.  
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

Then, when Harry was captured and Hermione was tortured by Bellatrix, it was Griphook who ended her torture by declaring the sword of Gryffindor a fake. He was rewarded by a cut across the face and indifferent abuse.

As a race, goblins are treated with such casual disdain and dislike that it is hardly surprising that their lines of morality are blurred when it comes to the wizards. Griphook did betray Harry, but let’s face it, Harry was going to betray him. Harry wouldn’t have left Griphook to die, of course, but in the end the goblin paid the ultimate price. He was murdered by Voldemort and the sword was once again taken forcibly by wizards for their gain.

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So no, Griphook was no angel, but he was there when he was needed and without him, Harry would never have defeated Voldemort. His actions may have been small, some of his moments quite mean, but as humans and Muggles, who are we to judge? It’s not easy being a goblin, you know.

7 times Harry and Ron were funnier than Fred and George

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Snape pushes Harry and Ron's heads down in the Goblet of Fire.

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[Fred](/features/fred-weasley "Fred Weasley") and [George Weasley](/features/george-weasley "George Weasley") were known to be the school’s biggest double act, but [Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter") and [Ron](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") were definite challengers for the title. Here’s a few times when Harry and Ron dished out comedy gold (when they weren’t fighting Dark wizards, of course). 

## When they wound up Professor McGonagall 

It wasn’t just constant rule-breaking that got Harry and Ron in trouble with the [Head of Gryffindor](/features/minerva-mcgonagall "Minerva McGonagall") – it was also when they acted like typical schoolboys (but with a magical twist, of course). An example of this was when they were caught fighting with magical [wands](/features/wands "Wands") at the back of a Transfiguration lesson, showing us that Harry and Ron could be totally silly when they wanted to be. 

> ‘Potter! Weasley! Will you pay attention?’ 
> Professor McGonagall’s irritated voice cracked like a whip through the Transfiguration class on Thursday, and Harry and Ron both jumped and looked up… The bell was due to ring at any moment, and Harry and Ron, who had been having a sword fight with a couple of Fred and George’s fake wands at the back of the class, looked up, Ron now holding a tin parrot, and Harry, a rubber haddock.
 *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

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McGonagall at her desk from the Chamber of Secrets 

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## That time they thought it’d be totally fine to fly a car to school 

There’s bold, then there’s deciding to drive a [flying Ford Anglia](/features/the-flying-ford-anglia "Behind the scenes: creating the flying Ford Anglia") to the start of your new school year. When you’re 12. 

Not only did this journey take some serious nerve, the likes of which Fred and George wouldn’t have even dreamed of, once they were on the way they didn’t even think about the implications; they just found it really, really funny. 

> ‘All we’ve got to worry about now are aeroplanes,’ said Ron. 
> They looked at each other and started to laugh; for a long time, they couldn’t stop. 
> It was as though they had been plunged into a fabulous dream. This, thought Harry, was surely the only way to travel: past swirls and turrets of snowy cloud, in a car full of hot, bright sunlight, with a fat pack of toffees in the glove compartment, and the prospect of seeing Fred and George’s jealous faces when they landed smoothly and spectacularly on the sweeping lawn in front of Hogwarts castle. 
 *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

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## Their Divination predictions

Sure, Fred and George exceeded expectations just by showing up to their exams, while Harry and Ron actually did their homework. Well, some of the time, anyway. However, when they did manage it, they decided to have a bit of fun with it. After quickly deciding that [Divination](/features/in-defence-of-divination "In defence of Divination") was, well, stupid, the pair went out of their way to take the mick, much to the chagrin of [Hermione](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger"). 

> ‘I’ve got two Neptunes here,’ said Harry after a while, frowning down at his piece of parchment, ‘that can’t be right, can it?’ 
> ‘Aaaaah,’ said Ron, imitating Professor Trelawney’s mystical whisper, ‘when two Neptunes appear in the sky, it is a sure sign that a midget in glasses is being born, Harry …’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

Their predictions truly took off when, together, they began working out various grisly deaths for themselves, much to the delight of their [teacher](/features/sybill-trelawney "Sybill Trelawney") – who, as we all know, loved predicting deaths. Even if it did get to the point where they accidentally tried to come up with the same deaths and got a bit carried away.

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The Grim made of tea leaves in divination 

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## Their skills at cheeking teachers 

Harry and Ron always had each other’s backs, which was particularly enjoyable when they jumped to each other’s defence during arguments with [Hogwarts](/features/hogwarts "Hogwarts") professors. Ron always had a brilliant one-liner to add onto Harry’s initial comeback, and they always earned a grin or a laugh from their fellow students when they said their piece. 

> ‘A five-year-old could have told us as much,’ sneered Snape. ‘The Inferius is a corpse that has been reanimated by a Dark wizard’s spells. It is not alive, it is merely used like a puppet to do the wizard’s bidding. A ghost, as I trust that you are all aware by now, is the imprint of a departed soul left upon the earth … and of course, as Potter so wisely tells us, transparent.’ 
> ‘Well, what Harry said is the most useful if we’re trying to tell them apart!’ said Ron. ‘When we come face-to-face with one down a dark alley, we’re going to be having a shufti to see if it’s solid, aren’t we, we’re not going to be asking, “Excuse me, are you the imprint of a departed soul?”’ 
> There was a ripple of laughter, instantly quelled by the look Snape gave the class. 
 *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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Illustration of Severus Snape from the second Order of the Phoenix infographic

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## Their jokes in the face of mortal peril

With [Molly’s](/features/molly-weasley "Molly Weasley") clock surely showing Ron pointed at ‘mortal peril’ on more than one occasion, Ron and Harry still managed to find humour in their often dark situations. From getting stuck in the [Chamber of Secrets](/writing-by-jk-rowling/chamber-of-secrets "Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling") to being sucked into a Devil’s Snare, they laughed in the face of danger. 

> ‘Stop moving!’ Hermione ordered them. ‘I know what this is – it’s Devil’s Snare!’ 
> ‘Oh, I’m so glad we know what it’s called, that’s a great help,’ snarled Ron. 
> ‘Shut up, I’m trying to remember how to kill it!’ said Hermione. 
> ‘Well, hurry up, I can’t breathe!’ Harry gasped, wrestling with it as it curled around his chest. 
 *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

## Most importantly, they made each other laugh

No one would ever say that Harry and Ron’s time at Hogwarts was easy, but they were always there to help each other crack up when times were especially tough – whether it was them nearly being murdered by an [angry tree](/features/whomping-willow "The Whomping Willow"), fleeing a hungry [Acromantula](/features/acromantula "Acromantula") or defeating the wizarding world’s all-time Darkest wizard.

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Ron helping Ron after he has taken love potion 

Why we love the loveable rogues from the wizarding world

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Moony Padfoot Prongs and Wormtail at Hogwarts by the lake

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The best-loved characters in the world of Harry Potter tend towards classic heroic archetypes. Courageous Harry, say, or thoughtful Hermione. Wise Dumbledore, or the upstanding, moral McGonagall. Arguably most adored still are those with a ‘zero to hero’ story arc – a certain Neville Longbottom comes to mind. 

But what of those who play by their own rules? The loveable rogue is a popular trope across all of popular culture – the rule-bending freestyler who marches to their own beat. We’re drawn to these quicksilver chancers because, unlike the more traditional 'goodies' mentioned above, they actively defy the established order – and usually wind up saving the day anyway.

To be sure, rotten behaviour for its own sake is always odious, and is very much the reason the first book isn’t called *Crabbe and Goyle and the Philosopher’s Stone.* So what are the tell-tale characteristics that set loveable rogues apart from common-or-garden variety villains?

## They use their instincts

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Sirius head shot from the Order of the Pheonix 

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Passion is a very distinctive feature: the potent urge to follow one’s gut instinct, often in spite of consequences and frequently in a risky fashion. Like Sirius Black, when he abandoned young Snape to the mercy of the Shrieking Shack, or his murderous wrath toward wretched Pettigrew. Not good behaviour. Fortunately, his friends were able to rein in the worst of his excesses, enabling the finer aspects of his nature – loyalty, protectiveness and courage – to really shine through.  

## They’re independent

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Ginny pointing her wand in the Room of Requiremnt 

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Independence, and its close cousin self-reliance, are also common to many loveable rogues, in real life and across popular culture. It should be no surprise at all that, growing up in a house with six brothers, Ginny managed to fit this archetype perfectly, standing up for herself fearlessly against Draco when he was being ghastly to her family. Her later husband Harry found Ginny's fierce wilfulness extremely attractive.

## They use biting wit

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Illustration of Lee Jordan from the Dumbledore's Army infographic

PM Lee Jordan illustration DA infographic

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Ginny also exhibited a lively sense of humour, impressing her Dumbledore's Army cohorts with a spot-on-impression of loathsome Professor Umbridge's cough. Quick-wittedness is certainly another feature common to many a loveable rogue. Few exemplified this silver-tongued, gift-of-the-gab superpower like Lee Jordan. In the commentary box for Quidditch, or in his seat at the back of the class, Jordan’s devastating one-liners would often get him in hot water with authority. 

But far from being just a flippant joker, he proved he could function on a whole new level as, when the chips were down, he bravely put his powers to good use as a broadcaster on the *Potterwatch* pirate radio station. 

## They have charisma

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Alison Sudol, as Queenie Goldstein, in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

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Witch Queenie Goldstein gets ready in the apartment she shares with her sister Tina

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A certain conventional attractiveness also has its place in the loveable rogue’s armoury. At the very least it can disarm and distract, as seen in *Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them* (2016) when Queenie remarked to a transparently smitten Jacob, ‘Aw, don't worry, honey. Most guys think what you was thinking, first time they see me.’ 

However, merely being easy on the eye will only get you so far (it’s what’s inside that counts, of course). And it was Queenie’s warm nature, quick wit and adroit skills as Legilimens, that really ended up setting her apart. 

## They might have special skills

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Illustration of Tonks from the Order of the Phoenix 

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To be a loveable rogue of any note, it also helps to be gifted in an unusual way. Tonks' astonishing skill as a Metamorphmagus made her devastatingly effective as an Auror. In keeping with her free spirit, it also enabled her to tweak her own appearance to amuse others, and moreover herself. 

## They have a code of conduct

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Hagrid in Knockturn Alley from the Chamber of Secrets 

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The main thing that separates a charming scallywag from a nefarious villain is that loveable rogues tend to have an internal code of ethics they live by. Which is to say, they may flout the rules and conventions of polite society, but at least stay true to their own moral compass. 

Although reckless and fond of drink, Hagrid took great pride in his loyalty to animals, be they giant spiders or lowly Blast-Ended Skrewts, even if it was scorned by those in authority. And for this behaviour, you can only admire him.

## They can learn from their mistakes

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Animated illustration of a young James Potter

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Most telling, however, of the loveable rogue personality is a sense that they’ve put their wild days behind them and are, at least to some degree, on the road to maturity. James Potter exemplified this perfectly – a gifted young wizard, prone to arrogance and not shy of [bullying](/features/how-harry-potter-and-the-philosophers-stone-tackled-bullying "How Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone tackled bullying") if it got a laugh out of his peers, he learned to temper his worst impulses and went on to make the ultimate sacrifice for his son.

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