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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

How to live like Ron Weasley

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When it comes to life advice, using [Ronald Bilius Weasley](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") as a role model might not immediately spring to mind – but actually, he taught us a lot of valuable lessons. Things like owning up to your shortcomings, learning from your mistakes and not being afraid to stick up for your friends. Oh, and why it’s totally fine to be wary of [spiders](/features/acromantula "Acromantula"). We could all learn something from Ron, you know.

## If you’re awkward at flirting, just ask for some advice 

When it came to wooing the ladies, Ron wasn’t exactly flush with success. Let us never forget the infamous line: ‘Hermione, Neville’s right – you *are* a girl…’ 

And while his relationship with [Lavender](/features/lavender-brown "Lavender Brown") featured some typically teenage PDAs, we can’t even really remember a wooing process taking place, and Ron’s break-up with Lavender was simply terrible.

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Which is why Ron needed his older brothers’ advice. When [Fred](/features/fred-weasley "Fred Weasley") and [George](/features/george-weasley "How to live like Ron Weasley") gifted him a copy of *Twelve Fail-Safe Ways to Charm Witches,* at least it was a start. 

> ‘Explains everything you need to know about girls. If only I’d had this last year, I’d have known exactly how to get rid of Lavender and I would’ve known how to get going with … well, Fred and George gave me a copy, and I’ve learned a lot. You’d be surprised, it’s not all about wandwork, either.’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* 

We’re not entirely convinced the self-help book was the best way to find [romance](/feature/romance-in-the-classrooms-of-hogwarts "Romance in the classrooms of Hogwarts"), but the point is everyone needs a helping hand sometimes. And it did teach Ron to be more respectful around women, such as suddenly paying [Hermione](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger") compliments. To be like Ron, don’t be afraid to take advice. (Although if it comes from someone like Fred or George, we suggest you consider it carefully first.)

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## Get yourself a swear jar and turn your bad habits into Galleons

If you’re anything like Ron you’ll be a champion of cursing, and we’re not talking [Avada Kedavra](/features/killing-curse "Avada Kedavra"). Who needs that when you’ve got ‘Merlin’s most baggy Y-fronts’ in your arsenal? Ron would have rather called someone a ‘brainless git’ ([Lockhart](/features/gilderoy-lockhart "Gilderoy Lockhart")) or told them to ‘eat dung’ ([Malfoy](/features/draco-malfoy "Draco Malfoy")) than thrown a curse of the Unforgiveable variety. Which is, obviously, a good thing.

And you, too, can turn such habits to your own advantage. Invest in a swear jar, pop a coin in it every time you utter a Ron-style curse or expletive, et voilà! You might actually make some money out of your [swearing](/feature/some-of-the-best-wizarding-swear-words "Some of the best wizarding swear words") abilities.

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Illustration of Ron' s dress robes from the Gobelt of Fire 

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## Embrace maroon 

Ron knew exactly who he was. As [Harry Potter’s](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter") best mate and the second-youngest Weasley he might have felt overshadowed, but he was never ashamed to be himself. That includes repeatedly rocking a colour that he hated – maroon. Seriously, who owns as many maroon-coloured items as Ron? Pyjamas, socks, dress robes, multiple jumpers (admittedly given to him by [his mum](/features/molly-weasley "Molly Weasley"), so he didn’t have much say about the colour). Ron may have grimaced at his assigned signature colour, but if you want to be more Ron, this darkish brown-y shade of red is the only one for you! 

## Acknowledge your flaws 

Another [colour](/writing-by-jk-rowling/colours "Colours by J.K. Rowling") Ron did occasionally embrace was green. As in, the green-eyed-monster of jealousy, you see. Being the best friend of Harry Potter was obviously tough on Ron, but his [jealousy](/feature/how-to-react-when-youre-not-chosen-as-hogwarts-champion "How to react when you’re not chosen as Hogwarts champion") never properly exploded until Harry was ‘chosen’ for the Triwizard Tournament.

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After a brief fall-out, Ron eventually came to his senses and became as supportive as possible during Harry’s tasks. Nobody likes a jealous friend, but it’s healthy to acknowledge your emotions and healthier still to learn from them. Don’t ignore all your worst feelings; they’ll only fester, like Malfoy’s.

## Surprise your loved ones with occasional flashes of brilliance

Ron wasn’t stupid, yet when it came to studying he could be a bit lazy. But don’t be fooled. In actuality, Ron was keeping his talents quiet so as to shock his friends and family at crucial moments. From his champion [chess game](/features/wizard-chess "Wizard chess") in *Philosopher’s Stone* to his surprise opening of the [Chamber of Secrets](/writing-by-jk-rowling/chamber-of-secrets "Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling") during the Battle of Hogwarts, Ron’s insightfulness always seemed even more brilliant because it was largely unexpected.

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The giant wizard chess on the way to get to the Philosopher's Stone

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The giant wizard chess on the way to get to the Philosopher's Stone.

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Follow Ron’s lead and not only will you never have to do much work, you’ll also be setting yourself up to deliver this zinger of a line any time someone dares comment on your abilities: ‘Always the tone of surprise.’

## Grab the ginger hair dye (if needed) and borrow some ancient dress robes

If all else fails, you can always channel Ron’s aesthetics, simply by replicating his impeccable fashion sense and his iconic hair colour. Ron might’ve scoffed at his hand-me-down clothes, but we like to call it rocking the retro look. No matter what Ron might’ve thought about himself, Weasley is our style king.

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Ron holding up the destroyed locket Horcrux.

Discover the films

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to Fantastic Beasts

Hermione Granger’s recommended reading list

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Looking for some new [textbooks](/feature/wizarding-world-book-o-graphic "The wizarding world book-o-graphic") to get stuck into? Do you happen to be a fictional wizard? Then we have the reading list for you, courtesy of Hogwarts’ resident literary expert, [Hermione Granger](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger"). 

## For magical beginners 

Like [Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter"), Hermione was brought up by [Muggles](/collection/muggles "Muggles") and had no knowledge of the wizarding world. Yet when she arrived at [Hogwarts](/features/hogwarts "Hogwarts"), she already had more knowledge than many of her classmates – because she’d read all of the books.

New Hogwarts students interested in following Hermione’s lead should therefore also memorise her booklist, which included:

*The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1)* by Miranda Goshawk  
*Magical Theory* by Adalbert Waffling  
*A Beginners’ Guide to Transfiguration* by Emeric Switch  
*One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi* by Phyllida Spore  
*Magical Drafts and Potions* by Arsenius Jigger  
*Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them* by [Newt Scamander](/features/newt-scamander "Newt Scamander")  
*The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection* by Quentin Trimble

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## History

Basic knowledge is essential, but to really understand the wizarding world it is worth diving deeper. Titles recommended by Hermione for closer exploration include:

*A History of Magic* by [Bathilda Bagshot](/features/bathilda-bagshot "Bathilda Bagshot")

The remaining book on Hogwarts’ list of set-texts for new students, *A History of Magic* is far more than a school textbook, providing historical context for the wizarding world [Voldemort](/features/lord-voldemort "Lord Voldemort") wanted to dominate. That its author was so closely connected with Harry’s history further proves that sometimes you should play close attention to your school books.

*Hogwarts: A History* 

As background reading for new Hogwarts students, books don’t get more helpful than this. Only *Hogwarts: A History* explains that the ceiling above the [Great Hall](/features/the-great-hall "The Great Hall") is bewitched, why it’s impossible to be [transported magically](/collection/jk-rowling-magical-transportation "Magical transportation") in or out of the school grounds, that Muggle [electronics](/writing-by-jk-rowling/technology "Technology by J.K. Rowling") don’t work alongside high levels of magic, and that the [founders of Hogwarts](/feature/stories-of-the-hogwarts-founders "The stories of the Hogwarts founders") thought boys less trustworthy than girls to such an extent that only girls’ dormitories were subject to magical protection (‘It’s an old-fashioned rule,’ explained Hermione).

*The Tales of Beedle the Bard by Beedle the Bard*

It’s a book of children’s stories, yes, but Beedle’s tales show the wizarding world has a long and complex history. Some of the stories, notably '[The Tale of the Three Brothers](/feature/tale-of-the-three-brothers "Behind the scenes: animating the ‘Tale of the Three Brothers’")', have had a direct impact on that history, passing from myth to truth and back again.

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Harry Ron and Hermione sitting at the Burrow for Dumbledore's will 

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## Background reading

Other titles to top up your knowledge:

*An Appraisal of Magical Education in Europe*  
*Modern Magical History*  
*Great Wizarding Events of the Twentieth Century*

## Defence Against the Dark Arts

Hermione advocated a practical approach to [Defence Against the Dark Arts](/feature/ranked-the-defence-against-the-dark-arts-teachers "Ranked: The Defence Against the Dark Arts teachers"), believing that theory alone was insufficient. Still, there were some books she recommended, notably *Jinxes for the Jinxed* – Hermione was a great believer in the usefulness of jinxes ‘when they’re used defensively’.

Other titles worth a look are:

*The Rise and Fall of the Dark Arts*  
*A Compendium of Common Curses and their Counter-Actions*  
*The Dark Arts Outsmarted*  
*Self-Defensive Spellwork*  
*Confronting the Faceless*

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Illustration from the Room of Requirement infographic of the DA headquarters

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## Ancient Runes

An optional subject studied by Hogwarts students from their third year upwards, Ancient Runes looked like complex work, seeing as Hermione was so often seen with a textbook on the subject. She developed such a talent for it that she went on to translate *The Tales of Beedle the Bard* from the original runes.

If we were Hogwarts students, maybe we could replicate Hermione’s success by reading these Ancient Runes books:

*Ancient Runes Made Easy*  
*Magical Hieroglyphs and Logograms*  
*Spellman’s Syllabary*  
*Advanced Rune Translation*

## Spells, Charms and Potions

For those wanting to emulate Hermione’s superior [spellwork](/collection/spells-and-charms "Spells and charms") (see: the many defensive charms she used for protection during their [Horcrux](/features/the-horcruxes "The Horcruxes") hunt) there are a few books she studied, namely:

*The Standard Book of Spells, Grades 2 to 6* by Miranda Goshawk  
*Quintessence: A Quest*  
*Achievements in Charming*

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On the other hand, Hermione had mixed results in [Potions](/writing-by-jk-rowling/potions "Potions by J.K. Rowling"). In some cases, her ability to closely follow a recipe brought spectacular success (such as [Polyjuice Potion](/features/polyjuice-potion "Polyjuice Potion")) but sticking to the script also meant she lacked the flair of, for example, the [Half-Blood Prince](/features/severus-snape "Severus Snape"). Still, for any serious potion-maker, Hermione did recommend the following:

*Most Potente Potions*  
*Advanced Potion-Making*

## Other notable titles

So many books, so little time… These titles were also on Hermione’s recommended list:

*Intermediate Transfiguration* – for theoretical support in the art of Transfiguration  
*Home Life and Social Habits of British Muggles* – for a wizarding perspective on Muggle life  
The Herbology title *Flesh-Eating Trees of the World*  
*Quidditch Through the Ages* – not that you can learn to ride a [broomstick](/features/broomsticks "Broomsticks") by reading a book, but it has some tips for the nervous flier

Regular library visits are also important. Without the library at Hogwarts, Hermione would not have discovered the truth about either [Nicolas Flamel](/features/nicolas-flamel "Nicolas Flamel") or [Basilisks](/features/basilisks "Basilisks"), so free reading of your own choice is also very useful.

## The ‘would-not-recommend’ list

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Hermione’s reading list was exhaustive, but there were a few she probably wouldn’t return to…

[Gilderoy Lockhart’s](/features/gilderoy-lockhart "Gilderoy Lockhart") entire backlist  
Divination textbook *Unfogging the Future* by Cassandra Vablatsky  
*The Monster Book of Monsters* (even after figuring out that it stops trying to kill you if you stroke the spine)  
*Defensive Magical Theory* by Wilbert Slinkhard  
*The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore* by [Rita Skeeter](/features/rita-skeeter "Rita Skeeter")  
Horcrux books *Secrets of the Darkest Art* and *Magick Moste Evile*  
[Kreacher’s](/features/kreacher "Kreacher") copy of *Nature’s Nobility: A Wizarding Genealogy*

Unsung Heroes: Poppy Pomfrey

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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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Under all circumstances, being a medic is hard work. Any [Muggle](/collection/muggles "Muggles") doctor at any Muggle hospital bears an immense responsibility for the care of their community, working in a huge team to keep everybody in good shape.  

Being singlehandedly responsible for the health and wellbeing of a [castle full of headstrong wizard children](/features/hogwarts "Hogwarts"), who all charge around on [broomsticks](/features/broomsticks "Broomsticks"), use [spells](/collection/spells-and-charms "Spells and charms") on each other and battle murderous [Dark wizards](/collection/characters-deatheaters "Death Eaters") is a whole different kind of challenge.

[Madam Poppy Pomfrey](/features/madam-pomfrey "Madam Pomfrey") is highly adept at practising medicine. Part of her genius is simple speed: she can fix broken bones ‘in a second’. [Ginny Weasley](/features/ginny-weasley "Ginny Weasley") broke her ankle it was repaired ‘in a trice’. [Harry Potter’s](/features/six-reasons-why-quidditch-is-bad-for-harrys-health "Why Quidditch is bad for Harry’s health") cracked skull was mended ‘at once’. [Hermione’s](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger") teeth were straightened without recourse to a time-consuming brace. When the weather turns chilly her Pepperup Potion works ‘instantly’ on colds – although it leaves the patient smoking from the ears for several hours afterwards.

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Madam Pomfrey tends to petrified students in the hospital wing

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As you might expect, healthcare in a wizarding context throws up some rather odd ailments. When [Bill Weasley](/features/bill-weasley "Bill Weasley") was bitten by a [werewolf](/writing-by-jk-rowling/werewolves "Werewolves by J.K. Rowling"), Pomfrey was on hand to tend to the wound. His younger brother [Ron](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") was bitten by a [dragon](/features/norbert "Norbert") – and although he lied to the matron about it being a dog, Pomfrey showed real professional discretion in choosing to overlook this and heal him anyway. When Eloise Midgen zapped off her nose during an overzealous attempt to battle acne, Pomfrey was able to reattach it. She administered Skele-Gro to help [Harry Potter](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter") replace 33 of the bones in his arm, following a bizarre and botched repair by [Gilderoy Lockhart](/features/gilderoy-lockhart "Gilderoy Lockhart").

Which isn’t to say Madam Pomfrey is enamoured with the more outlandish aspects of Hogwarts life. Not at all. It’s likely she takes a dim view of [Quidditch](/collection/quidditch "Quidditch"), which is hardly surprising due to the sheer amount of injuries the risky sport entails. During one match, she had to heal Harry Potter, who’d fallen more than 50 feet to the ground, and one of the times Ron Weasley was laid up in the hospital wing, Pomfrey refused to discharge him even to watch a Quidditch match. Pretty understandable, a game of Quidditch is a tad more dangerous than a round of Tiddlywinks after all. 

Similarly, she felt the [Triwizard Tournament](/features/triwizard-tournament-timeline "The Triwizard Tournament") was too risky and would cause nothing but harm. Even before the tournament began she had to deal with the consequences of [Fred](/features/fred-weasley "Fred Weasley") and [George Weasley](/features/george-weasley "George Weasley") and a handful of fellow miscreants trying to ‘age themselves up a little’. She helped them, of course, but only reluctantly. During the Tournament itself, Pomfrey was always on hand to heal the ailed champions – and was clearly outraged a bunch of teenagers were fighting the likes of [dragons](/features/dragons "Dragons").

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Ron in the Hospital Wing from the Half-Blood Prince.

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Like all good medics, Madam Pomfrey is caring but capable of strictness and steel when called for. Visiting privileges are tightly controlled and enforced, all the better to help her patients recover in peace. It makes no difference to her if you’re a student, Headmaster or even [Minister for Magic](/writing-by-jk-rowling/ministers-for-magic "Ministers for Magic by J.K. Rowling"). On her ward, it’s her rules. 

Compassion for her charges is what makes Poppy Pomfrey a real hero though. She’s frequently called upon in the middle of the night to deal with emergencies, and her skill in making people feel better goes beyond simple medicine. When [Albus Dumbledore](/features/albus-dumbledore "Albus Dumbledore") died she was on hand to console her friend [Minerva McGonagall](/features/minerva-mcgonagall "Minerva McGonagall") by skilfully conjuring a chair. 

Her noble, heroic, self-sacrificing credo is summed up rather beautifully by something she said to Harry Potter in a fraught moment: ‘If I wasn’t worried what would happen to you students without me, I’d resign in protest!’

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Harry in the Hospital Wing reading a book from the Philosopher's Stone 

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*Each month Pottermore will shine a spotlight on a character from the Harry Potter stories who we feel deserves more credit. Come back next month when we celebrate another.*

Hogwarts students who could have been sorted into different houses

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[The Sorting Hat](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat) was the supreme authority of who got sorted where at Hogwarts; it was very rarely wrong. But that’s not to say that there weren’t exceptions. Of course, even in trickier scenarios, there was always wisdom and logic behind the Sorting Hat’s decision – a trait or a hidden depth in a student that nobody else could sense. Even so, here are some of the Hogwarts students who definitely gave the Sorting Hat a hard decision to make. 

## Hermione Granger 

Hermione Granger was a notably difficult choice for the Sorting Hat, nearly resulting in the super-rare [Hatstall](/writing-by-jk-rowling/hatstall "Hatstall by J.K. Rowling"): a situation where the Hat spends more than five minutes deciding on a student’s house. For Hermione, the Hat spent around four minutes deliberating if she was a Gryffindor or Ravenclaw. Not surprising, really. Ravenclaw values wit, and Hermione’s brains were bountiful. Take her Boggart: Professor McGonagall telling her she’d failed her exams was her worst fear! So why did Hermione, once dubbed the ‘brightest witch of her age’, end up in Gryffindor?

It seemed that the Hat saw past Hermione’s academic prowess and noted the intense fire in her instead. Hermione’s bravery was maybe more understated than Harry’s, but when you think about it, Hermione rarely faltered in times of danger. In *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* in particular, Hermione withstood torture, stress and tirelessly handled the emotionally draining camping trip searching for Horcruxes. She was even brave enough to modify her parents’ memories and identities so they’d forget her and not get hurt: a clever move, but more so a gallant one. Hermione’s smarts were admirable, but as she said herself once, ‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery…’

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## Ron Weasley 

Being Harry Potter’s best friend certainly needed heaps of bravery – hence the Sorting Hat not messing around in sorting Ron into Gryffindor, the house of his parents, brothers and sister. But the Hat specifically states that Gryffindors usually have ‘daring, nerve and chivalry’. And although it is true that Ron definitely had nerve and chivalry (such as the ways he would clapback at Snape in class) he arguably embodied many Hufflepuff-esque qualities. Hufflepuffs are just and loyal and true, just like Ron. The only time Ron isn't so brave is usually when spiders are involved.

If Ron had had the work ethic (Hufflepuffs are notoriously hard workers) he might have had a shot there. 

But Ron, ultimately, is more Gryffindor-ish, with his braver moments often coming out in bursts, such as risking his life in a life-size game of wizard chess as a first year, flying a Ford Anglia to Hogwarts and barely hesitating once when it came to joining Harry on dangerous missions. 

Although Ron had a tendency to falter, such as leaving the trio behind during their camping trip in *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*, something inside brought him back: [a little help from Albus Dumbledore](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/was-ron-destined-to-need-deluminator), and maybe a little Gryffindor spirit.

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## Neville Longbottom

Neville didn’t even want to be placed in Gryffindor. He was intimidated by the house’s reputation for bravery and actually wanted to be sorted into Hufflepuff instead. Makes sense, right? After all, Neville’s early years didn’t exactly scream Gryffindor: he was often forgetful, bumbling or getting caught up a Full Body-Bind curse. And like a Hufflepuff, he was more kind, gentle and hard-working – even if he didn’t always get the hard work right.

In the end, though, Neville was perplexed to be chosen for the former, but there was wisdom in the Hat’s decision: a wisdom that stemmed from the fact that Neville had always been brave, but just in a different way. For it’s easy to be brave if you’re naturally inclined to bravery; if you were born to play the hero. But real courage, real bravery, means being scared – it means confronting your fear and overcoming it. And, as we saw in *Deathly Hallows*, this was exactly what happened: Neville stood up to Lord Voldemort and slayed his snake Nagini, playing a vital part in saving the entire wizarding world.

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Neville defies Lord Voldemort and holds the sword of Gryffindor in the aftermath of the Battle at Hogwarts.

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## Harry Potter

Harry Potter came very close to being sorted into Slytherin before he persuaded the Hat to sort him into Gryffindor. Yet the spectre of Slytherin haunted him for some time afterwards, becoming particularly potent in *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*, when he was rumoured to be the heir of Slytherin. Speaking to a snake in front of his fellow students certainly didn’t help. 

But was Harry ever really that close to Slytherin, or did the Sorting Hat merely sense a spark of Lord Voldemort inside him? After all, years later, Harry would discover that the reason he had so many links to Voldemort, such as being a Parselmouth, was due to his being an unintentional Horcrux. There was also the fact that Harry could access the Sword of Gryffindor, which – according to Albus Dumbledore – only a ‘true Gryffindor’ could wield. But Harry did share some Slytherin traits: he was ambitious and cunning, always sneaking around after hours and cooking up plans with Ron and Hermione. His green eyes even match the house. It is curious to think what the Sorting Hat would have deduced without Voldemort’s involvement in Harry’s life.

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## Peter Pettigrew

Peter Pettigrew was perhaps the Sorting Hat’s most controversial choice – and caused one of the few true Hatstalls. Torn between Slytherin or Gryffindor, the Hat took an exceptional amount of time before deciding on the latter – a decision typically construed as a catastrophic error. For although Pettigrew blended in with his fellow Gryffindors, his nature seemed to bend towards Slytherin – especially when, in later years, he stealthily staged his own death. Not very brave, but undeniably cunning: classic attributes of a Slytherin. 

[According to J.K. Rowling](/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-sorting-hat "The Sorting Hat by J.K. Rowling"), the Sorting Hat is notoriously stubborn and won’t concede to having made a mistake. It defended its decision by highlighting Pettigrew’s death, when a brief moment of mercy for Harry Potter apparently caused his silver hand – gifted to him by Lord Voldemort – to turn on him. But given the ambiguous nature of Pettigrew’s demise, this defence is seen as dubious at best.

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The weirdest and most obscure books of the wizarding world

PMARCHIVE-The weirdest and most obscure books of the wizarding world

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From bizarre comics to the deepest, darkest selection from Dumbledore’s [banned books](/feature/hogwarts-banned-list "The Hogwarts banned list"), the wizarding world has so much more to offer than just [Gilderoy Lockhart’s](/features/gilderoy-lockhart "Gilderoy Lockhart") questionable bibliography. Check out the most intriguing repertoire of books that we’d love to peruse… 

## The Invisible Book of Invisibility 

> ‘I’m never stocking them again, never! It’s been bedlam! I thought we’d seen the worst when we bought two hundred copies of The Invisible Book of Invisibility – cost a fortune, and we never found them…’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* 

Ah. The Emperor’s New Clothes of books. Did the poor guy in [Flourish and Blotts](/features/flourish-and-blotts "Flourish and Blotts") ever find this order? And what, exactly, was the purpose of buying yourself an invisible book? Was it simply a novelty present for the wizard equivalent of a Christmas stocking gift? If you ask us, this one sounds an awful lot like one of [Mundungus Fletcher’s](/features/mundungus-fletcher "Mundungus Fletcher") more ingenious cons.

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The Weasleys and the Malfoys square up to each other in a crowded bookshop.

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## The Adventures of Martin Miggs, the Mad Muggle

Why was Martin Miggs mad? Indeed, why he was so mad that he got the attention young witches and wizards everywhere, despite being a [Muggle](/collection/muggles "Muggles")? All we know about Mr Miggs, aside from his lack of magic, is that [Ron](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") had a huge pile of comics about his adventures. We need to know more!

## The book Hermione used to solve the mysteries of the Basilisk 

The book (called *Most Macabre Monstrosities* in the Harry Potter films) used by [Hermione](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger") to discover that a [Basilisk](/features/basilisks "Basilisks") was attacking students gives the impression of being an older, more terrifying version of the old, reliable *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.* The very old library book – that certainly was no longer on the Care for Magical Creatures syllabus – helped the gang save the day when they were only 12. We wouldn’t mind reading about the more macabre selection of [monsters](/collection/terrifying-monsters "Terrifying monsters of the wizarding world") that the wizarding world has to offer… 

> Hermione’s hand was clamped so tightly around the paper that Harry was sure he was going to tear it. While Ron kept watch he tugged and twisted and at last, after several tense minutes, the paper came free. It was a page torn from a very old library book. 
 *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

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## Men Who Love Dragons Too Much 

Do we even want to know about the sort of people who checked this one out of the library? Even [Hagrid](/features/rubeus-hagrid "Rubeus Hagrid") stuck with a simple textbook when it came to hatching young [Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback](/features/norbert "Norbert"), and we thought his adoration of the ‘misunderstood creatures’ was borderline worrying! That being said, this text is guaranteed to be full of brilliant anecdotes. For instance, we’d love to know more about men determined to domesticate the [Hungarian Horntail](/features/hungarian-horntail "Hungarian Horntail"). Good luck to them (and, possibly, their remaining limbs).  

## Blood Brothers: My Life Amongst the Vampires

[Vampires](/writing-by-jk-rowling/vampires "Vampires by J.K. Rowling") are only very briefly touched upon in the Harry Potter series, and only appeared when Harry met the author of the vampire study, Eldred Worple, at [Slughorn’s](/features/horace-slughorn "Horace Slughorn") Christmas party. He also met the mysterious Sanguini, who went after a group of girls with a ‘hungry look’ in his eyes, before Eldred quickly distracted him with a pasty. We feel like this book would certainly help us fill in some of the blanks from this interaction. For example, what would have happened should Sanguini have managed to slip away without Eldred noticing? And are vampires in the wizarding world particularly prone to a pasty?

The weirdest books of the wizarding world

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