feature

Features

Hero Features Hub Texture

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

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

pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero

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

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

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

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

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

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

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

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

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

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

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

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

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

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

HP-F7

and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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

## The importance of keeping things in perspective

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

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

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

Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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

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

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

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

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

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

Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

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

## Be proud of who you are

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

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

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

Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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

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

## There is always hope

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

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

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

Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

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

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

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

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

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

Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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

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

## An excellent reminder

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

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

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

Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

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

## Do what is right, not what is easy

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

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

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

Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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

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

## Protect what is important

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

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

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

Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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

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

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

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

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

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

Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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

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

## Boundaries are good

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

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

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

Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

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

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

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

PMARCHIVE-Ron Hermione homepage carousel 3Npf2yAQfKUWUUKCGuS6K6-b7

Ron Hermione homepage carousel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Features - Wizarding World

In defence of Sybill Trelawney

PMARCHIVE-In defence of Sybill Trelawney

PMARCHIVE-SybilTrelawney WB F5 TrelawneyInCourtyardWithBagLookingUpset Still 080615 Land 1oUJoNiGGEWWiW6CQu4am0

SybilTrelawney WB F5 TrelawneyInCourtyardWithBagLookingUpset Still 080615 Land

Sybil Trelawney clutches her bag after being fired by Umbridge in the Order of the Pheonix

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-sybill-trelawney-0

It can’t be easy growing up in the shadow of a famous ancestor, especially when you’ve chosen the same career. Poor Sybill is always going to be compared to her lauded forebear, the Seer Cassandra Trelawney, and she’s all too aware of it.

Although she fervently believes in her own skill, there’s a part of her that must know the truth: she’s not as naturally talented as she professes to be.

Fascinatingly, although she has actually inherited the second sight from her great-great grandmother, she simply isn’t aware of it. She has no recollection of her trances that result in monumental predictions, and dismisses anyone who repeats her own foretellings. Incredibly, she doesn’t have any idea that she made the prophecy that sealed Harry’s fate.

On the surface, many of her day-to-day predictions are completely random and have little resonance, but if you dig a little deeper they do tend to come true, just in a slightly roundabout way. The problem with Sybill is that she doesn’t seem to have a good grasp of her gifts, which leads her to misinterpret the things she sees or reads in tea leaves.

PMARCHIVE-SybilTrelawney WB F3 TheGrimInATeacup Still 080615 land 4ykt2kryMgUEgi60As6a0S-b5

SybilTrelawney WB F3 TheGrimInATeacup Still 080615 land

The Grim made of tea leaves in divination 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-sybill-trelawney-2

Perhaps that’s why she feels the need to create such an eccentric persona for herself; one thing’s for sure, she certainly likes to make an impression.

She has a carefully crafted image, with her oversized magnifying glasses, wild hair and fondness for shiny shawls layered over her thin frame. She might imagine herself to be a mysterious, all-seeing Diviner but the overall look is rather more reminiscent of a ‘large, glittering insect’, as Harry imagined her – no one is going to forget her in a hurry! She’s pretty terrifying at first glance.

Her quirky style doesn’t stop there either; her claustrophobic tower-top loft is an extension of herself, with vast draperies and fragrant vapours, giving off an otherworldly aura.

PMARCHIVE-SybilTrelawney PM B3C6M2 TrelawneyTeachingFirstDivinationLessonToHarryRonHermione Moment 4nTBWFHkbSeQyKOg6gsQ0q

SybilTrelawney PM B3C6M2 TrelawneyTeachingFirstDivinationLessonToHarryRonHermione Moment

A steam filled divination class room from the Prisoner of Azakban 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-sybill-trelawney-4

Therein lies the problem with Sybill: she tries too hard. Her skill isn’t respected enough to speak for itself so she does her best to portray what she fancies a true Diviner should be. The result is often a little bit bonkers.

Harry’s first class under her tutelage is more of a performance than a lesson and it’s clear from the start that she delights in shock value. Her horrified pronouncement that Harry would meet his end in the not-too-distant future becomes even more interesting when Professor McGonagall reveals that it’s not an unusual occurrence.

It’s unclear whether Sybill truly believes that Harry is doomed – it’s more likely to be a calculating move on her part to ensure she has the attention and respect of her new class.

She’s also hilarious.

> 'By the way, my dear,’ she shot suddenly at Parvati Patil, ‘beware a red-haired man.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* 

She’s either in tune with some wavelength we don’t fully comprehend or has a secret, excellent sense of humour.

That’s what’s so entertaining about Sybill Trelawney: she comes across almost ethereal as though she’s fluttering on the edges of reality, but she can be sharp, funny and calculating. Yet she’s very defensive and over-sensitive about the sincerity of her talents; she’s so flustered and upset by Umbridge’s interrogation that she turns to the cooking sherry. It’s hard not to feel sorry for her when she’s throwing out increasingly wild and random ‘predictions’ in order to prove her worth. She seems to show her true self when she feels under threat, especially if her gift is under scrutiny. Her dreamy, gentle manner is quickly replaced by a much harsher one and she becomes abrupt and accusatory.

Her relationship with her students is similar; Sybill only really warms to those who show the appropriate amount of admiration and respect for both herself and her subject, and she takes an immediate dislike to logical Hermione. Instead she favours Lavender and Parvati who positively fawn over her, and she blossoms under their attention.

It all comes back to her desire to be recognised. Although she may seem oblivious to what’s going on around her, too busy wrapped up in her tea-leaves and tarot cards, she must be aware of her reputation among staff and students.

Widely thought to be a fraud, Sybill is often met with sarcasm and disbelief from other teachers who find her either unsettling or irritating, and she doesn’t seem to have any real friends. She doesn’t seem too bothered. In fact, she considers herself far superior to her unenlightened colleagues. Perhaps that’s why she keeps herself closeted away in her tower, rarely descending the ladder to dine with others – she’s the ultimate loner by choice.

Not that she minds. Sybill finds comfort in her gift and is often carrying her cards or muttering ominous predictions under her breath when she does deign to venture out into the castle.

PMARCHIVE-SybillTrelawney WB F3 HeadshotOfTrelawney Still 080615 Land 5zUCuM4UggCoaoe6GaQ8yO

SybilTrelawney WB F3 HeadshotOfTrelawney Still 080615 Land

Sybill Trelawney looking mystically mad from the Prisoner of Azkaban 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-sybill-trelawney-6

Despite her spiky edges there’s something fragile and childlike about the Divination professor, seen especially that time when Umbridge gleefully tried to chuck her out of the castle. Her terror and utter despair made her more relatable than she’s ever been, and her love of Hogwarts couldn’t be clearer.

And when the castle was breached, she didn’t hide away in her tower: she got stuck in, hurling crystal balls at Death Eaters with surprising ferocity.

She’s a mass of contradictions and although she may not be the most popular Hogwarts resident, she has to be given recognition for one thing at least: she’s the only teacher who’s managed to send Hermione storming out of a classroom.

*Each month Pottermore will try to defend the more… questionable characters from the Harry Potter stories. Come back next month when we make the case for [Argus Filch.](/feature/in-defence-of-argus-filch "In defence of Argus Filch")*

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

The five most heroic moments in Philosopher’s Stone

PMARCHIVE-The five most heroic moments in Philosopher’s Stone

PMARCHIVE-GreatHall PM B1C17M3 GryffindorWinningHouseCup Moment 2SnUqVsw00CQmIwIGoCoyY

GreatHall PM B1C17M3 gryffindorWinningHouseCup Moment

The Great Hall when Gryffindor win the House Cup 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-five-most-heroic-moments-in-philosophers-stone-0

## 1.	When Harry and Ron warn Hermione about the troll

When a troll breaks into Hogwarts, Harry and Ron are supposed to head to the Gryffindor common room. Instead, they rush to warn Hermione, who is unaware of the drama because she's upset in the girls’ toilets. Thanks, Ron.

OK, so Ron might be the reason Hermione was even in the girls' toilets in the first place, but still – they don’t have to risk a marauding troll  to find her, especially when they aren’t exactly friends. And when they face the smelly twelve-foot beast with a huge wooden club in its oversized hands, they don’t run away. No. OK, again, they do inadvertently lock it in the bathroom with Hermione, but as soon as they realise, they rush in to rescue her without a thought for themselves.

For her part, Hermione is quick to save Harry and Ron from something arguably scarier than a troll - a handful of very cross teachers - and takes the blame for Harry and Ron being in the way of a troll in the first place. All in all, it’s all pretty heroic, and the whole reason this trio became a trio in the first place. [Imagine if they hadn't... ](/features/what-if-harry-ron-and-hermione-had-never-made-friends-in-philosophers-stone)

PMARCHIVE-Hogwarts PM B1C10M3 TrollInBathroom Moment 3mGX7iixG8i0YyWKSy84ca

Hogwarts PM B1C10M3 TrollInBathroom Moment

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-five-most-heroic-moments-in-philosophers-stone-2

## 2.	When Firenze rescues Harry in the Forbidden Forest

Centaurs are not supposed to interfere in events that have been foretold. They are especially not supposed to interfere by carting people around on their backs ‘like donkeys’, as Bane says, even if that means leaving a schoolboy to the mercy of a bloodied, unicorn-killing creature hiding out in the Forbidden Forest.

So when Firenze disregards all that to rescue Harry from said unicorn-killing creature, he is not only setting himself against foretold events, he is also setting himself against his fellow centaurs. Bane is furious. For him, it is a centaur’s duty to remain separate from the human world, making no attempt to influence it. 

Not Firenze, though. When he rescues Harry, Firenze ignores the expectations of his herd because he acknowledges something more important: standing together is their only chance to defeat the thing lurking in the forest, no matter what has been foretold.

PMARCHIVE-ForbiddenForest PM B1C15M2 NightInTheForbiddenForest Moment 5lUR5JHSnuUoaoi6CyeWSi-b7

ForbiddenForest PM B1C15M2 NightInTheForbiddenForest Moment

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-five-most-heroic-moments-in-philosophers-stone-4

## 3.	When Neville stands up to his friends

From the moment he boards the Hogwarts Express, the anxious Neville is a prime target for Malfoy’s malicious teasing, which makes him miserable and even more nervous. Ron, Harry and Hermione are forever telling him to defend himself – but then he does, and it couldn't come at a worse time. When standing before the three of them in his pyjamas, attempting to stop them losing Gryffindor even more points, Neville takes a big, brave risk. He’s tried standing up to Malfoy; now he’s doing it to the closest thing he has to friends. He doesn’t back down, either – only Hermione’s full Body-Bind spell stops him from stopping them.

We know this moment must cost Neville, but he does it anyway. So when Dumbledore acknowledges the bravery of his actions with the ten house points that win Gryffindor the House Cup, we’re cheering along with the rest of them.

PMARCHIVE-GryffindorCommonRoom PM B1C13M1 GryffindorCommonRoomFireplace Moment 3vIn3bJAXSGEAuaKsCsOYw

GryffindorCommonRoom PM B1C13M1 GryffindorCommonRoomFireplace Moment

The fireplace in the Gryffindor Common Room 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-five-most-heroic-moments-in-philosophers-stone-6

## 4.	When Ron sacrifices himself

If Neville standing up to his friends is one kind of bravery, [Ron standing up for them](/features/how-ron-weasleys-wizard-chess-match-showed-his-true-potential) by taking a beating from a giant wizard chess piece is another. 

It takes a particular kind of heroism to face up to a vicious, stone queen that wants to knock you out cold, in order that your friends can advance. Yet that’s what Ron does. He makes an immediate, decisive assessment during that chess game. He knows that without his sacrifice, Harry and Hermione won’t get any further in their bid to reach the Philosopher’s Stone. So he makes the call and he brooks no argument.

PMARCHIVE-Hogwarts PM B1C16M2 WizardsChess Getting To Philosophers Stone Moment 4zmthBW27SoMky4gGAIKGU

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

Hogwarts PM B1C16M2 WizardsChess Getting To Philosophers Stone Moment

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

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-five-most-heroic-moments-in-philosophers-stone-8

## 5.	When Harry faced Voldemort

Chess is a game of logic and Ron’s sacrifice is part of a strategy, albeit one that he has to come up with on the spot. When Harry comes face-to-sort-of-face with Voldemort he has no such scope to strategise – he’s completely blindsided by the red eyes staring at him from beneath Quirrell’s turban. With no idea what’s coming, there’s not much Harry can do except think quickly and hope.

Which is why what he does hope for is so impressive. When Voldemort instructs Quirrell to put Harry in front of the Mirror of Erised and work out how to get the Philosopher’s Stone, Harry subverts all Voldemort’s expectations by picturing himself finding the Stone in order to keep it safe. He doesn’t want to use it; he’s not even thinking about the glory of outwitting Voldemort. He just wants to keep it away from him. Harry’s bravery is instinctive and intuitive, and he just knows that Voldemort with the Philosopher’s Stone would be a very bad situation.

PMARCHIVE-MirrorOfErised PM B1C17M1 QuirrellAndHarryInFrontOfTheMirrorOfErised Moment 54xvgNQcAEWQ6g0kUCIkME

MirrorOfErised PM B1C17M1 QuirrellAndHarryInFrontOfTheMirrorOfErised Moment

Quirrell and Harry in front of the Mirror of Erised.

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-five-most-heroic-moments-in-philosophers-stone-10

## Honourable mention…

One final act of heroism is Scabbers’ finest hour: the moment Ron’s old family rat bites Malfoy’s big, bullying pal Goyle. And then went back to sleep. Good one, Scabbers.

In defence of Divination

PMARCHIVE-In defence of Divination

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-divination-0

> 'Many witches and wizards, talented though they are in the area of loud bangs and smells and sudden disappearings, are yet unable to penetrate the veiled mysteries of the future.' 
 *Sybill Trelawney* 

The thoughts and opinions of Hogwarts students and faculty fall into two distinct camps when it comes to Divination. In one camp, skittish sherry enthusiast Professor Trelawney, and lovable-but-saccharine Lavender Brown, who firmly believe that your future lies at the bottom of a dirty teacup. 

However, Professor Minerva McGonagall, with her stern analytical prowess, and ice-cool, intellectual Hermione Granger, consider it to be at best a silly distraction, and at worst an egregious and potentially dangerous waste of time and energy. 

So who are we to believe? The usually assiduous, diligent Hermione saw fit to dismiss Divination as ‘woolly’ before flouncing out of the lesson, while the somewhat more diplomatic McGonagall referred to it, with subtle undertones of sass, as an ‘imprecise’ branch of magic. Tripe, Sybill?

PMARCHIVE-WB F3 HermioneTrelawney HermioneLookingUnimpressed HP3D-2434 UP HPE3 4CuPOD4NduIOuCsEm4wIwo-b10

WB F3 HermioneTrelawney HermioneLookingUnimpressed HP3D-2434 UP HPE3

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-divination-2

Whatever your position, there’s something about Trelawney’s entreaty to ‘allow your eyes to see past the mundane’ that possesses an undeniable romantic appeal. For in a world of Whomping Willows, flying cars and chocolate frogs, who’s to say what’s sensible anyway?

## There’s method to the madness

Part of what makes Divination so divisive is the fact that aptitude (if it exists at all) is in the blood. Sybill Trelawney’s great-great-grandmother Cassandra Trelawney was widely recognised as an authentic Seer. Indeed, Cassandra’s good name was part of the reason Albus Dumbledore agreed to meet with Sybill for the teaching position in the first place - out of 'common politeness'. Apart from a few anomalies, however, Sybill’s inner eye was perhaps somewhat short-sighted.

But even for those not blessed with the ‘Sight’, the rituals and practices associated with Divination have an arcane charm all of their own. The idea of reading the dregs of a teacup or referring to tarot cards will be familiar to anybody with an awareness of Muggle occultism. To be fair, if you gazed into the bottom of your teacup and saw a skull, it might, rightly, give you pause to gird yourself against the possibility of mortal peril. And if the vague shape of an acorn attunes you to the possibility of a potential windfall in gold then, hey, what’s the harm?

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-divination-4

Visions are by nature obtuse, wishy-washy things. But a good solid crystal ball, if hard to read, proved itself invaluable in at least one instance – in knocking out bloodthirsty Fenrir Greyback. 

## It delivers… once in a while

Like a stopped clock, Divination is occasionally correct in spite of itself. When Professor Trelawney first clapped eyes on Neville Longbottom she was inclined to think he’d be the clumsy type, and sure enough he broke a cup. You needn’t be an epidemiologist to foresee a bout of flu in February (which Trelawney did that very same lesson). She was equally correct when she assured her class ‘the fates’ had tipped her off about what subjects would likely come up in a forthcoming exam. Though in fairness, as an incredulous Hermione pointed out, it was Trelawney herself that set the questions.

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-divination-6

## We need to talk about centaurs

The proud, forest-dwelling quadrupeds have an entirely separate discipline of Divination which makes fewer outlandish claims – and as such is on much firmer footing. (Or should that be hoofing.) When Firenze stepped in to relieve Sybill Trelawney as Divination teacher, he was critical of his predecessor, describing fortune-telling as human folly – ‘self-flattering nonsense’ – and ridiculing astrology as a daft myth, suggesting the affairs of mankind are of as much interest to the cosmos as that of scurrying ants. 

That said, Firenze was just as prone to exaggerated, vague, unfounded claims. That the wizarding world was in a lull between wars was slightly obvious, and his rituals of fire and mallowsweet and sage seem every bit as ersatz as those of Trelawney. However, unlike Trelawney, Firenze did at least admit that no prophecy is foolproof. 

> ‘He’s not very definite on anything, is he?’ said Ron in a low voice, as they put out their mallowsweet fire. ‘I mean, I could do with a few more details about this war we’re about to have, couldn’t you?’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

It could equally be argued, though, that sceptics like McGonagall or Hermione, and (moreover) those who struggle with both mystic intuition and academic brilliance like Ron and Harry, simply lack the insight of the Inner Eye.

PMARCHIVE-Firenze PM B5C27 DivinationClassroomHarryRonFirenze 3qSesztbXqwzlPlaQWtYl0-b7

Firenze asks Harry to stay behind after his Divination lesson to discuss Hagrid

Firenze PM B5C27 DivinationClassroomHarryRonFirenze

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-in-defence-of-divination-8

Either way, without that elusive prophecy, the Harry Potter books might’ve been a very different story.

All the exposés Rita Skeeter should have written

PMARCHIVE-All the exposés Rita Skeeter should have written

PMARCHIVE-undefined 3eqFNv5EcwoUaqGaw2GKU6-g0

RitaSkeeter WB F4 RitaAndHarryInBroomCupboard Still 080615 Land

Rita Skeeter and Harry in the broom cupboard 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-all-the-exposes-rita-skeeter-should-have-written-0

Not that we’re trying to encourage Rita, but if you’re going to tarnish someone’s reputation with your Quick-Quotes Quill, at least pick someone who deserves it. 

During her problematic journalism career throughout the Harry Potter books, Rita worked hard to ruin the reps of pretty much everyone we actually liked with her damning *Daily Prophet* articles, such as Harry, Hagrid and Hermione. With Albus Dumbledore, our beloved national treasure, Rita went one worse, cashing in on his family tragedies with a full book all about it: *The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore*. For added measure, she flogged this after the poor man’s death. 

Rita, here’s a tip: pick on someone your own size when you’re writing your life-ruining exposés — or at least someone with the same sized morals as you. In fact, here are a few suggestions of who to bug in the future. 

## Lord Voldemort is just a terrible person: the never-ending column

PMARCHIVE-Voldemort WB F7 VoldemortStaringAheadAtTheMalfoyManor Still 080615 Land 185eblU13sk8iyaYskmo2Y

Voldemort WB F7 VoldemortStaringAheadAtTheMalfoyManor Still 080615 Land

Voldemort stares ahead while in Malfoy Manor in a film still from the Deathly Hallows Part .

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-all-the-exposes-rita-skeeter-should-have-written-2

Hey Rita, one of the Darkest wizards of all time called — he just wanted to say that he is absolutely terrible. Why, oh why, was Rita wasting her time writing about 14-year-olds and friendly half-giants when the cruellest and most powerful Dark wizard of all time was hanging around?

Rita spent a long time reporting on the fates of Voldemort’s Death Eaters, but what about the man himself? We thought Rita loved getting into the nitty gritty of her victims’ flaws — so who better than Lord V? She could write a whole column on his nose alone, and surely the hack would love to get some scoops on the ‘tragedy’ of Voldemort’s family — especially his doomed mother Merope? 

## The secret disgraces of Ludo Bagman 

If Rita Skeeter loves anything, it’s ripping apart the reputations of beloved wizards and witches — much more fun than the famously bad ones. In *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*, we see a glimmer of Rita waiting to catch a hot scoop on former Quidditch ace Ludo Bagman, who had dealings with Death Eaters as well as a secret, crippling debt to goblins. Ludo Bagman’s squeaky-clean sporting-hero persona fascinated us, and we kind of hope Rita did find out about his life on the run. 

## Gadding with no one: the fictitious world of Gilderoy Lockhart

PMARCHIVE-GilderoyLockhart WB F2 GilderoyLockhartPilotOutfit Promo 080615 Port 3eqFNv5EcwoUaqGaw2GKU6-b3

GilderoyLockhart WB F2 GilderoyLockhartPilotOutfit Promo 080615 Port

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-all-the-exposes-rita-skeeter-should-have-written-4

From one liar to another, an exposé on fellow hyperbolic writer Gilderoy Lockhart may be a bit pot-calling-kettle-black for Rita. But while her erroneous tabloid journalism writing might have not been entirely factually accurate, Gilderoy Lockhart was passing off his entire bibliography as biographical rather than pure fiction. Surely Rita would love to get her teeth into the story of the *Gadding with Ghouls* writer, seeing as he didn’t actually gad with anybody. Also, Gilderoy’s tragic ending when he lost his memory is bound to tug a few heartstrings, and Rita does enjoy milking the emotional side of things, as well as all the scandal. 

## Gripes with Gellert Grindelwald 

It’s alliterative, and it’s a fair-enough point. Rita may have skewered Albus Dumbledore to get that coveted spot at Flourish and Blotts, but Albus’s former friend was the one with all the bad ideas. If Rita wanted to get all preachy on a high horse, surely this was the wizard to choose. Yes, we do learn a little about Grindelwald during *The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore*, but it was very much the tip of the iceberg. For example, Gellert’s school life is briefly mentioned, and it was noted he was expelled from Durmstrang because of his ‘twisted experiments’. Call us macabre, but what exactly were those twisted experiments, per chance?  

## The Malfoy family: exposed

PMARCHIVE-DracoMalfoy WB F7 DracoLuciusNarcissaBellatrixGroupshot Promo 080615 Land gr3IXEH6DeIIeO2M6iUoO

DracoMalfoy WB F7 DracoLuciusNarcissaBellatrixGroupshot Promo 080615 Land

A family photo of Lucius Narcissa Draco and Bellatrix 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-all-the-exposes-rita-skeeter-should-have-written-6

As much as Draco Malfoy liked to rattle on about his father, we’re dying to know about all the less impressive things the Malfoy family did. Yes, we know they’re rich, have a big fancy house, and have a penchant for pure-blood pride, but these complex characters all seem to have light and shade to them, and a huge tell-all bumper biography would be very much appreciated. Narcissa Malfoy is a particularly interesting case, as she didn’t technically become a Death Eater but was fine with being embroiled in Lucius’s dark life. 

And what about enigmatic old Lucius? Did Lucius Malfoy have a happy childhood? How does he keep his hair in such beautiful condition? What was his early friendship with Snape like? And while we’re asking questions, how much is in the Malfoy’s family vault at Gringotts, really? 

## The rise and fall of Dolores Umbridge 

Everyone loves a comeback, but what’s the one thing people love more? When a bad guy gets their comeuppance. Yes, Dolores Umbridge had a cushy life for a while, exemplified by her abundance of kitten plates and rising career status. But when she fell, she fell hard, and then some centaurs carried her off for good measure. 

Imagine a whole book on Umbridge’s life — again, what was *her* childhood like? How did she get so far with that girly giggle? And how terrible were her prejudices beyond what we already know? 

## Aberforth Dumbledore: seriously, what was all that about?

PMARCHIVE-AberforthPatronus PM B7C28 AberforthDumbledoreGoatPatronus MomentIllust 3eqFNv5EcwoUaqGaw2GKU6-b7

Illustration of Aberforth Dumbledore's goat Patronus

AberforthPatronus PM B7C28 AberforthDumbledoreGoatPatronus MomentIllust

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-all-the-exposes-rita-skeeter-should-have-written-8

How Hogwarts taught us it's OK to be an outsider

PMARCHIVE-How Hogwarts taught us it's OK to be an outsider

PMARCHIVE-undefined 2ZiWLV74xGyIQgcqs6COCU-g0

LunaLovegood WB F6 LunaLovegoodInGryffindorLionHead Still 080615 Port

Luna wearing her roaring Gryffindor Lions Head  

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-how-hogwarts-taught-us-its-ok-to-be-an-outsider-0

Although Hogwarts is a fine institution of learning, educating the inquiring minds of young witches and wizards from all over the country, for many of its students the castle means so much more than turning hedgehogs into pincushions.

Over the hundreds of years it's been open, Hogwarts has become a home for anyone feeling abandoned, and the place that outsiders can fit in. In fact, Hogwarts actively *encourages* individuality, and anyone who passes through its doors is taught the value of being themselves. 

## Whoever, or whatever you are: you’re welcome 

This can be seen not just in the students, but in the staff too. Both the Divination teachers during Harry's school years, Professor Trelawney and Firenze the centaur, were given permanent teaching posts and a permanent home at Hogwarts. Both were outcasts from their societies for different reasons, but Dumbledore valued their unique perspectives — as well as knowing that everyone has value no matter their talents, and deserves to be treated with respect.

PMARCHIVE-RubeusHagrid WB F2 ConceptOfYoungHagridInSchoolRobes Illust 080615 Land 2ZiWLV74xGyIQgcqs6COCU-b1

RubeusHagrid WB F2 ConceptOfYoungHagridInSchoolRobes Illust 080615 Land

An illustration of Hagrid when he was a student.

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-how-hogwarts-taught-us-its-ok-to-be-an-outsider-2

Of course, most of the staff at Hogwarts were students before they joined the faculty. Rubeus Hagrid had trouble fitting in both literally and metaphorically. Hagrid never knew his giantess mother, and his father died when he was only in his second year. Despite being wrongly expelled, he was given a home and a job at Hogwarts, and his kindness, courage and open heart made him an instant and enduring friend to Harry, Ron and Hermione.

Then, of course, there's Remus Lupin. Having been bitten by the werewolf Fenrir Greyback when he was very young, Lupin thought there would be no way he could attend Hogwarts. Not only did Lupin attend the school, he was also made a prefect, and said: 'For the first time ever, I had friends, three great friends.' Lupin was later hired as the Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher for Harry's third year, and proved to be one of the most popular and adept teachers to ever hold the position. As accepting as Hogwarts is, though, we’re still mystified by Professor Lockhart’s employment.

PMARCHIVE-RemusLupin PM B3C12M1 LupinTeachingHarryToRepelDementorsWithABoggart Moment 57umW5aKcjVMWnOsNEvsao-b7

RemusLupin PM B3C12M1 LupinTeachingHarryToRepelDementorsWithABoggart Moment

Lupin teaches the Patronus charm to Harry. 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-how-hogwarts-taught-us-its-ok-to-be-an-outsider-4

## Hogwarts will always encourage you if you’re not feeling good enough 

Perhaps the incredibly accommodating nature of Albus Dumbledore reflects well on the Hogwarts students, because no underdog is left completely alone. Even Moaning Myrtle, left to haunt a girl’s bathroom, buddied up with Harry after a while. Neville Longbottom is a good example of the unpopular kid gaining his confidence. Raised by his headstrong grandmother and feeling pressure to succeed the same way his parents had, Neville eventually found confidence by discovering and nurturing his own talents.

Dumbledore praised Neville for his bravery in front of the whole school from his first year, saying, 'It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.' As Neville gained confidence through the things he *was* good at, like Herbology, and continued to receive support from his friends, he became better at almost everything he did. Neville earned his grandmother's approval on his own terms, and after his heroic actions in the Battle of Hogwarts he returned to the school as a teacher, too.

PMARCHIVE-NevilleLongbottom WB F8 NevilleLongbottomFullShot Still 080615 Port 1aQg3nANOScqmWaioWm0iM

NevilleLongbottom WB F8 NevilleLongbottomFullShot Still 080615 Port

Neville at Hogwarts from the Deathly Hallows 

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-how-hogwarts-taught-us-its-ok-to-be-an-outsider-6

In his later years at Hogwarts, one of Neville's closest friends was Luna Lovegood, Ravenclaw student and member of Dumbledore's Army. Luna was teased and called 'Loony Lovegood' because of her strange ideas, behaviour and clothing choices (the necklace of Butterbeer corks being a favourite), but she never once compromised who she was. Even though she didn't fit in, Luna became great friends with Harry, Ron, Hermione, Neville and Ginny, and it's clear that the friendship meant a lot to her, as Harry discovered:

> Luna had decorated her bedroom ceiling with five beautifully painted faces: Harry, Ron, Hermione, Ginny and Neville. They were not moving as the portraits at Hogwarts moved, but there was a certain magic about them all the same. 
 *Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows* 

## Prejudice will not be rewarded 

It was because Luna had never pretended to be something she wasn't that her friendships were more valuable: Draco Malfoy, for example, didn't have many true friends to count on, and by *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince* he was in over his head trying to live up to his family name by being a Death Eater. 

And, of course, there is Harry himself. An orphan born into a legacy that he didn't understand for many years, physically marked by his past and always sticking out, Harry never really knew kindness or a real home until he left the Dursleys and came to Hogwarts. He thinks about this as he goes to meet Voldemort near the close of *Deathly Hallows,* noting: ‘Hogwarts was the first and best home he had known.'

PMARCHIVE-Harry Potter in the cupboard 1fdkNePAjM4AS2cAQmk4ya

Harry Potter by Jim Kay

PMARCHIVE-BODY-OF-how-hogwarts-taught-us-its-ok-to-be-an-outsider-8

Each of the four Hogwarts founders favoured different traits in their chosen students, and now the school welcomes them all. At the Battle of Hogwarts, students past and present, and from all walks of life, pulled together and used their diversity as their strength. (Even those from Slytherin 'played its part’ as Phineas Nigellus pointed out.) Hogwarts teaches us that we all deserve kindness, that we all deserve a home, and that we all deserve a chance to be happy.

Please excuse us, there’s something in our eye.

TRENDING SEARCHES

Features