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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

Analysing the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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McGonagall stands outside Privet drive disguised as a cat

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The Harry Potter series is so rich in detail and intricately crafted that every time we revisit it we find new things to appreciate. Seeds were sown from the start, so let’s take a look at the first chapter of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,* ‘The Boy Who Lived’, and see if there’s anything new to discover…

*Philosopher’s Stone* kicks off with a description of the Dursleys and their general judgemental view of the world. Vernon goes off to work, Petunia tends to baby Dudley and between the three of them they manage to criticise a great number of people – particularly the overjoyed wizards celebrating the demise of Voldemort. Not that they know that.

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The Dursley family photo, Dudley is wearing his Smeltings school uniform

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It’s interesting to note that the Dursleys didn’t ever shake off their blinkered views and by *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* this hadn’t really changed. Although, bear in mind that this is very much in keeping with their lifestyle and general attitudes.

> When Mr and Mrs Dursley woke up on the dull, grey Tuesday our story starts, there was nothing about the cloudy sky outside to suggest that strange and mysterious things would soon be happening all over the country. 
 *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

In ‘The Boy Who Lived’, it’s doubly amusing to see such a tranquil world. The ‘strange and mysterious things’ mentioned in chapter one could be a blanket reference to the incredible journey about to unfold.

While the Dursleys are the first people we meet in *Philosopher’s Stone* the characters that stick long in the mind are Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall and, of course, Hagrid.

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Hagrid flying into Privet Drive with a baby Harry.

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It’s not hard to see why. Dumbledore is twinkly-eyed and playful but with a serious streak, while McGonagall is the right kind of strict. Also, having her by Dumbledore’s side cements their relationship as friends rather than just colleagues rather nicely.

> ‘My dear Professor, surely a sensible person like yourself can call him by his name? All this “You-Know-Who” nonsense – for eleven years I have been trying to persuade people to call him by his proper name: Voldemort.’ 
> Professor McGonagall flinched, but Dumbledore, who was unsticking two sherbet lemons, seemed not to notice. 
 *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

‘The Boy Who Lived’ contains the first mention of Voldemort in the form of some pretty loaded dialogue. It’s clear he and Dumbledore have history but it’s not explicitly referred to. Still, we get an idea of who Voldemort is – a dark and malevolent force to be reckoned with – and the greatness of his powers just from a few short lines.

> ‘It’s lucky it’s dark. I haven’t blushed so much since Madam Pomfrey told me she liked my new earmuffs.’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

Madam Pomfrey, the Hogwarts matron, gets a name-check here. To a first-time reader it would seem like a throwaway reference to an unimportant character, but it fits in so well with the continuity that’s established from the very beginning. That is to say, characters whose names you didn’t take note of turn out to have a significant role to play.

Similarly, when Hagrid makes his entrance on his now very familiar motorbike, he says he borrowed it off of ‘young Sirius Black’. What seems like a piece of insignificant information is actually the first mention of Harry’s godfather. Of course, Sirius would go on to become vitally important to Harry.

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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and the Order of the Phoenix

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What’s so apparent in the first chapter of *Philosopher’s Stone* is that there’s a sadness hanging over it. What could be some simple world-building is actually a deeply poignant and emotional moment for McGonagall, Dumbledore, Hagrid and even unwitting baby Harry. At the time, we were pulled into the mystery of this chapter, but now we see it’s melancholic value.

‘The Boy Who Lived’ is fascinating because it’s our first step into Harry’s world, and it’s fun to see some of the series’ most important characters, characters who we’ve grown to love, before Harry even went to Hogwarts.

> ‘Would you care for a sherbet lemon?’ 
> ‘No, thank you,’ said Professor McGonagall coldly, as though she didn’t think this was the moment for sherbet lemons. 
 *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

A little bit of lightness in dark times is pretty much Harry Potter in a nutshell and handing out sherbet lemons on a tragic evening when there’s an important task at hand is classic Dumbledore. Professor McGonagall’s prickly response is also so typical of her. And, to be honest, you can kind of see her point. Sherbert lemons at a time like this, Dumbledore?

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Dumbledore and McGonagall leave baby Harry at Privet Drive 

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A simpler reason for Dumbledore dishing out sweets while delivering the most important child the wizarding world will ever see is that he knows exactly what Harry represents and, essentially, what he will grow up to become. And besides, with Voldemort seemingly six feet under everyone had a legitimate cause for celebration.

> ‘He’ll have that scar for ever.’ 
> ‘Couldn’t you do something about it, Dumbledore?’ 
> ‘Even if I could, I wouldn’t. Scars can come in useful. I have one myself above my left knee which is a perfect map of the London Underground.’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

At first glance Dumbledore’s comment on Harry’s scar seems like another one of his little jokes. But on closer inspection it reveals that perhaps Dumbledore knew that Harry’s scar was more than just a cut, and how it represented the link between Harry and Voldemort. Hiding his great wisdom and foresight behind humour was something Dumbledore did more than once, after all. We never did quite find out about that London Underground scar though…

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Harry showing his scar to Ron on the Hogwarts Express 

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‘The Boy Who Lived’ is full of little twinkles of subtext that are fun to read after all these years. There are nods to characters we would later fall for, moments of foreshadowing and, of course, humour: because where is Harry Potter without some levity?

Analysing the first chapter of Philosopher’s Stone

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

How the iconic Philosopher’s Stone’s locations defined the characters

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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and the Chamber of Secrets

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## Harry and the cupboard under the stairs

When we met Harry, his cupboard at the Dursleys’ house was the only place he called his own, and even this tiny, claustrophobic space was his under sufferance.

The Dursleys were not fond of Harry. At best he was a nuisance, at worst he was a problem. Ignored and treated as a skivvy, he was the lowest person in the Privet Drive pecking order and at times the Dursleys’ dislike of him teetered close to emotional abuse. Privet Drive was not a happy place for Harry, and his cupboard – the smallest room in the house, full of spiders and dust and other people’s coats – exemplified that.

Harry didn’t dwell much on life at the Dursleys’, but he longed for opportunities to get away – he was keen to join Dudley’s trip to the zoo because it was better than the alternative. So it’s fitting that his cupboard was the place where Harry’s Hogwarts life began. He might not have read the original letter addressed to ‘The Cupboard under the Stairs’, but Hogwarts found him eventually.

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## Vernon and the Hut-on-the-Rock

The place Hogwarts found Harry was a rain-lashed hut in the middle of the sea, to which he, Dudley and Petunia had been dragged by an increasingly enraged Uncle Vernon. It was described as ‘the most miserable little shack you could imagine’. A damp, two-roomed dwelling, smelling of seaweed: miserable is right.

The only person not miserable was Vernon. He was positively gleeful at the thought of escaping Harry’s Hogwarts letters. Forcing his wife and son to flee to an isolated, potentially dangerous hut to spite his nephew was pretty typical of Vernon’s attitude to Harry and said a lot about his wizarding-world paranoia. For a man so keen on doing things correctly, Vernon’s panicked response showed his fear.

Sadly for him, the hut Vernon hoped to remember as the place he thwarted the wizarding world actually became memorable for two very different reasons. Firstly, it was the place Harry found out he was a wizard. And secondly, it’s where Dudley gained a pig’s tail.

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## Hagrid and Diagon Alley

The wizard who gave Dudley that tail was the same one who became Harry’s unofficial guide to the wizarding world: warm, impulsive, expansive Hagrid, who took Harry to Diagon Alley and introduced him to magic. Covering everything from wands to Quidditch to Gringotts goblins, Hagrid’s tour of this hidden, magical London street was the perfect way to induct Harry – and us – into the wizarding world.

Diagon Alley, in all its messy, disorganised, wonderfully strange glory, had a lot in common with Hagrid. Harry warmed to them both instantly, and wandering around Diagon Alley, never knowing what might pop its head around the corner, was good practice for his friendship with Hagrid.

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WB F1 Hagrid and Harry CAROUSEL 

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## Ron and platform nine and three-quarters

Harry’s first encounter with Ron happened before they boarded the Hogwarts Express. Ron was surrounded by most of his family, literally about to follow in the footsteps of Fred and George and charge through the barrier at platform nine and three-quarters. Then Harry appeared, looking for help, and Mrs Weasley suggested he go ahead of Ron.

People were always going ahead of Ron. He didn’t seem to mind in this instance, but it was obviously something he was aware of, and it became more pronounced as his friendship with Harry developed. Ultimately, his thoughts about Harry’s place in his family became something he had to face up to, an internalised worry that seriously threatened his peace of mind in *Deathly Hallows*.

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## Hermione and the Hogwarts Express

Hermione’s first time on the Hogwarts Express saw her take charge of Neville’s lost toad, lecture Ron about spells and reveal she had learnt all their set books off by heart. Later, she told Ron and Harry to get changed into their robes, despite the fact she’d only just met them.

All fairly standard Hermione behaviour. She showed none of the other first years’ nervousness. Not for her the worry of fitting in or following in anybody else’s footsteps. Even when events conspired to bring her bossiness down a notch, she still tackled everything head-on.

For Hermione, the Hogwarts Express was just the beginning. It was the train journey that would kick off her future.

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## Dumbledore and Hogwarts

Enigmatic Professor Dumbledore was so closely associated with Hogwarts it’s hard to think of one without the other – they’re both full of secrets and the occasional trick step. Dumbledore’s relationship with Hogwarts was summed up by the Mirror of Erised incident.

Harry stumbled across the Mirror, apparently by accident, in a disused classroom. He visited again, desperate to look at the family he saw magically reflected there, until Dumbledore advised him against it. Dumbledore also mentioned, in passing, a mysterious room full of chamber pots, aka the Room of Requirement, which would be so important later.
 
The next time Harry saw the mirror was during his encounter with a Voldemort-possessed Professor Quirrell. Thanks to Dumbledore, he knew exactly what to do.

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Dumbledore used Hogwarts’ secrets to aid his plans, but it was more than that. He understood Hogwarts. Dumbledore knew he’d never learn all its mysteries, and that the ones he did know were not his to keep.

It's the 20th anniversary of the first Harry Potter film this year! We're celebrating 20 key moments from the film at our special [20 Years of Movie Magic hub.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/harrypottermovie20)

Clues J.K. Rowling gave us about the Harry Potter books before they came out: death and redemption

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Dumbledore and Snape talking from the Deathly Hallows Part 2

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> ‘There will be deaths.’ 
 *Book Links, July 1999* 

She really wasn’t kidding. Though J.K. Rowling warned us they were coming, the deaths of those beloved characters still hit us hard. But it’s not all doom and gloom in this edition, as we’ll also be looking at second chances when characters either got a reprieve or changed their wicked ways. 

Naturally, this is as spoiler-heavy as it gets, so we highly recommend finishing the books first if you haven’t already.

> JKR: Erm… Well… Yes there are going to be deaths – sorry, sorry, sorry – and they start in book four. Sorry. 
 *AOL Live, 4 May 2000* 

*Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* was a real turning point in the series, as everything changed with those three callous words: ‘Kill the spare.’ RIP Cedric Diggory.

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Cedric and Amos before the final Triwizard Challenge.

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> ‘In this book, what I consider to be a major character dies. It was awful to write. It was absolutely awful. And literally, well I did, I cried after doing it, and then, er, walked into the kitchen afterwards in tears.’ 
 *‘Dateline NBC’, 20 June 2003* 

It was just as awful to read. J.K. Rowling probably knew she’d be spending many future interviews answering the question, ‘How could you kill Sirius Black?’ 

> ‘I always knew it was coming, but I managed to live in denial, and carry on with the character and not think about it.’ 
 *BBC ‘Newsnight', 19 June 2003* 

Denial isn’t normally the healthiest approach, but given how sudden and unexpected Sirius’s death was, it seems to have worked. Most of us never saw it coming.

> ‘… I will ruin future books if I elaborate on that too much. But it’s a strong central theme – dealing with death, yeah, and facing up to death.’ 
 *CBC News World: ‘Hot Type’, 13 July 2000* 

Death is one of the hardest things to face and Harry was no exception. His worldview changed after Cedric’s death (literally – he could now see Thestrals) and he struggled greatly after losing his godfather. He would need all his courage in the final book when facing his own death.

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Harry, accompanied by the spirits of his dead family and friends, approaches Lord Voldemort prepared to die.

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> ‘Why do some wizards/witches become ghosts and others don't?’ 
> JKR: ‘Another superb question, and this time I can tell you that you will find out much more about that in book five.’ 
 *America Online chat, 19 October 2000* 

Let’s be honest – we all had our hopes up for a moment. Harry was so desperate to see Sirius again that he asked Nearly Headless Nick if he might come back as a ghost. But Sirius did not fear death, so we’d never see a pearly-white Padfoot drift into Hogwarts. 

> ‘One character got a reprieve, but I have to say two die that I didn’t intend to die…’ 
 *‘Richard and Judy’, Channel 4, 26 June 2006* 

Though Arthur Weasley had a lucky break in *Order of the Phoenix*, the same could not be said for Lupin and Tonks at the Battle of Hogwarts. Their son Teddy would be left an orphan, just like Harry.

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> ‘The first question that I have never been asked – it has probably been asked in a chatroom but no one has ever asked me – is, “Why didn’t Voldemort die?” Not, “Why did Harry live?” but, “Why didn’t Voldemort die?”’ 
> 
> ‘The other question that I am surprised no one has asked me since Phoenix came out – I thought that people would – is why Dumbledore did not kill or try to kill Voldemort in the scene in the Ministry.’ 
 *Edinburgh Book Festival, 15 August 2004* 

Both would hint that Voldemort, for some reason, could not be killed. If only we’d thought to ask these at the time, we might have got some clues about the existence of Horcruxes. 

> ‘Will Wormtail ever pay Harry back?’ 
> JKR: ‘You’ll see... keep reading!’ 
 *World Book Day chat, 4 March 2004* 

It wasn’t exactly an earth-shattering redemption arc but Pettigrew’s moment of hesitation led to Harry’s escape and his own untimely demise by his silver hand. This also ended speculation that Wormtail might end up killing Lupin – you know, that old legend with silver and werewolves?

> ‘Malfoy comes from a family who has strong associations with – er – with Dark magic, as you know – and you’re going to find out more about that in book four…’ 
 *‘The Connection’, WBUR Radio, 12 October 1999* 

We always knew Lucius was up to no good. Our suspicions were confirmed in the graveyard when Malfoy senior was named as a Death Eater. But what of his son, Draco?

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The Malfoys homepage carousel

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> ‘Harry believes that Draco would not have murdered the person in question. What that means for Draco’s future? We’ll just have to wait and see.’ 
 *Radio City Music Hall, New York, 2 August 2006* 

Draco’s hesitance to kill Dumbledore marked a change in direction for his character. In *Deathly Hallows* he was notably hestitant when it came to identifying Harry at Malfoy Manor. He even tried to stop his friends killing the trio at the Battle of Hogwarts. So there’s hope for the Malfoys yet.

> ‘… Regulus got in a little too deep. Like Draco.’ 
 *The Leaky Cauldron and MuggleNet interview, 16 July 2005* 

The mysterious R.A.B. had a fascinating story, known only to the house-elf Kreacher for many years. But he wasn’t the only Death Eater who had a change of heart.

> ‘Why did you make Quirrell the bad guy instead of Snape?’ 
> JKR: ‘Because I know all about Snape…’ 
 *America Online chat, 19 October 2000* 

Knowing everything we know now, we can safely say that the choice of baddie in book one didn’t come down to a coin toss. J.K. Rowling knew where Snape was heading from the start.

> ‘Snape’s ancestry is hinted at. He was a Death Eater, so clearly he is no Muggle-born, because Muggle-borns are not allowed to be Death Eaters, except in rare circumstances.’ 
 *Edinburgh Book Festival, 15 August 2004* 

Snape was not a Muggle-born, yet the author deliberately avoided labelling him a pure-blood. Hmm, wasn’t there something about a ‘half-blood’ in one of the book titles?

> ‘… you’ll find out why I’m so stunned if you read book seven.’ 
 *‘The Connection’, WBUR Radio, 12 October 1999* 

J.K. Rowling was quite taken aback when she was asked if Snape had ever been in love. She was also quizzed over his Boggart form and whether or not he could conjure a Patronus, which was said to be unusual magic for a Death Eater. Snape did have a Patronus and we know it kept the same form. Always.

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> ‘This is really where I wrap everything up, it’s the epilogue, and I basically say what happens to everyone after they leave school – those who survive …’ 
 *‘Harry Potter and Me’, BBC, 28 December 2001* 

After all they’d been through, our heroes certainly deserved a happy ending. The final scene, where they wave to their children from platform nine and three-quarters, still gets us every time.

*Read part one to discover the clues J.K. Rowling teased about [Harry’s friends and family](/feature/clues-jkr-gave-us-about-the-harry-potter-books-heroes-villains-and-hogwarts), and part two to read more about what the author teased about [heroes, villains and Hogwarts.](/feature/clues-jkr-gave-us-about-the-harry-potter-books-heroes-villains-and-hogwarts)*

Clues J.K. Rowling gave us about the Harry Potter books: death and redemption

Life lessons we can all take from Philosopher’s Stone

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## It’s important to remain humble

Dumbledore left Harry with the Dursleys because he didn’t want him growing up famous. ‘It would be enough to turn any boy’s head,’ he told McGonagall.

Thanks to Trelawney’s prophecy, Dumbledore already suspected what was in store for Harry. And yet placing Harry with the Dursleys was important because it protected him not only from Voldemort’s followers, but also from the prying eyes of more well-meaning witches and wizards.

Living with the Dursleys gave Harry a whole new set of problems, but it certainly kept him humble. When Harry learnt about his past he felt unequal to it: embarrassed by strangers’ responses, modest about his part in Voldemort’s downfall, worried about his lack of knowledge.

He might not have been aware of it, but this very human vulnerability would actually help Harry. When he arrived at Hogwarts, Harry was ready to learn. Unlike Voldemort he responded to kindness, not power. He wanted friends, not followers; he looked for help, not to intimidate.

Because Dumbledore was right, of course. He couldn’t have known how starved of love and affection Harry would be, but he did know that a Harry who’d grown up famous would be far less equipped to deal with Voldemort, whose arrogance was key to his defeat. Harry, while he grew in confidence, remembered his past in a way that Voldemort did not. This made him human, and gave him tools Voldemort would never understand.

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## Love conquers hate

The most significant of Harry’s advantages was love.

Harry survived Voldemort’s curse because of his mother’s instinct to protect him. Love literally saved Harry’s life, and its power remained as the magic associated with his mother’s sacrifice took root in the home of his only surviving relative. It’s a pity this protection lived only in Aunt Petunia’s blood but still, it kept Harry safe, even if she didn’t know it.

Voldemort couldn’t comprehend why love should be so important. Even Harry couldn’t quite appreciate its full significance – in *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince* he barely stopped himself saying ‘Big deal!’ when Dumbledore told him, again, that love was the one power Harry had over Voldemort. But eventually we all learnt just how much Voldemort lost because of his inability to understand love.

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LilyJames PM Memorial

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## Friendship and loyalty beats wealth and status

The first time Harry met Draco Malfoy he knew they wouldn’t be friends. Malfoy’s reaction to Harry before he knew his name was disinterested and sneering, yet when they met again he extended the hand of friendship. Harry, unimpressed by Malfoy’s dismissal of Ron, wouldn’t take it. He didn’t need to be an expert in the wizarding world to see through Malfoy.

Whether he really wanted to be Harry’s friend is up for debate, but either way Malfoy didn’t stand a chance against Ron, with his messy family and uncomplicated warmth. Money and power weren’t important to Harry, who grew up without much of either, subsequently discovered a bit of both, and still gravitated towards the things that he was really lacking – friendship, affection and loyalty. This was what Harry regarded as important and, like love, it was these things that helped him defeat Voldemort. After all, you couldn’t pay someone to come Horcrux hunting with you, and only a friend would do that for free.

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## Standing up for yourself is tough, but rewarding

It was a while before we learnt that Neville Longbottom could have been the Chosen One, but as a counterpart to Harry in *Philosopher’s Stone* he was quite interesting. He’d grown up in the wizarding world but was more worried than anyone about starting Hogwarts and his anxieties got the better of him. He was intimidated by Malfoy and too nervous to listen to flying instructor Madam Hooch, resulting in a bad start and a broken wrist.

He was brave, though – the Sorting Hat knew it from the start. With the encouragement of Ron and Harry, Neville started to stand up for himself. Dumbledore knew it, too, awarding Neville ten points for facing up to Harry, Ron and Hermione, and thus securing Gryffindor the House Cup.

Neville showed us that being scared doesn’t mean you can’t be brave – on the contrary, standing up when you’re scared is what *makes* you brave. Neville’s was a quiet, quivering kind of courage, but when Dumbledore recognised him at the end-of-year feast, it showed that bravery comes in many forms.

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Neville falls victim to Hermione's Petrificus Totalus spell

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## Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Whether it was nervously asking Mrs Weasley for help at King’s Cross or recovering the Philosopher’s Stone with the aid of Ron and Hermione, Harry realised that he wasn’t going to get very far in the wizarding world without help.

It wasn’t just Harry, either. In the Forbidden Forest centaur Firenze acknowledged that Voldemort would only be defeated by communities coming together.

This became more significant as Harry’s battle with Voldemort intensified. From the Order of the Phoenix to Dumbledore’s Army to the Battle of Hogwarts, Harry came to realise he couldn’t do everything on his own. And here, too, he showed an awareness that Voldemort never quite grasped.

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Harry and Dumbledore's Army in the Room of Requirement 

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## Stay away from three-headed dogs

Just an idea.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Pottermore will explore themes, moments, characters and much more from the very first Harry Potter story. Come back on Thursday when we look at how the iconic Philosopher's Stone [locations defined the characters](/feature/how-the-iconic-philosophers-stones-locations-defined-the-characters).

Like father, like son: examining Harry Potter characters and their dads

PMARCHIVE-Like father, like son: examining Harry Potter characters and their dads

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Harry's stag patronus charges across the lake towards the Dementors.

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