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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

Unsung heroes: Aberforth Dumbledore

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Aberforth Dumbledore standing in the Hog's Head Inn with Ron and Hermione

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2

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So what if Aberforth Dumbledore liked goats? A goat was his Patronus. He kept goats. Tended to them. Was fond of goat-related fiction. But we don’t need to dwell on that.

The point is that Aberforth Dumbledore was also an unsung hero in the Harry Potter books. After all, he helped Harry during a pivotal point in his story, and was never afraid to butt heads with others.

So Aberforth wasn’t a people person. He proudly refused entry to, and maintained a longstanding grudge with, nefarious swindler Mundungus Fletcher, for example. He’d been alleged to sling dung – goat dung, naturally – at people he had disagreements with. He’d frequently been inclined to describe close associates as ‘bloody fools’ or ‘old berk(s)’.

But this crotchetiness is understandable when you consider his life story.

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As a child Aberforth saw his innocent younger sister attacked by Muggles just for being different. His sister – Ariana – went on to shun most people, apart from Aberforth. Struggling to keep a lid on her magical abilities, Ariana went on to accidentally kill their mother during a violent outburst. All the while his older brother, the illustrious Albus Dumbledore, was able to focus on his work, proceed to become headmaster of Hogwarts, and go down in history as one of the greats.

Aberforth was certainly entitled to be a bit grouchy, and grouchy he definitely was. His moodiness meant Aberforth was keen on fighting, with a fondness for duelling over debate. He was certainly not perfect, and was quite possibly illiterate – according to his own brother.

But Aberforth’s pivotal role in fighting the forces of darkness cannot be overstated.

He sneaked Harry, Ron and Hermione into the Hog’s Head under the cover of his hircine (meaning ‘goat-like’, word-fans) Patronus to escape the Death Eaters. Ever the pessimist, he locked horns with Harry, questioning Albus’s good judgement in entrusting the fate of the world to the young Boy Who Lived.

He also maintained a vital lifeline supplying food to the Room of Requirement, without which Dumbledore’s Army would likely have floundered.

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The first Dumbledore's Army meeting is held in the Hog's Head

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Need more convincing? Students could never have escaped Hogwarts in their relieved hundreds during the final vicious Death Eater attack without the passage to the Hog’s Head, accessed via his beloved sister’s portrait.

More? Dobby would never have saved the day at Malfoy Manor, had Aberforth not dispatched his elfin buddy to rescue Harry and friends from the clutches of Bellatrix Lestrange.

Still more than those heroics, even, Aberforth’s main contribution to civilisation was all too often overlooked. Were it not for Aberforth’s brave conduct in a wand battle decades ago, evil would have triumphed long before Harry was even born.

When the Dumbledores still lived at home, Gellert Grindelwald paid Albus a visit. High-achieving Albus was drawn to young Grindelwald’s striking ability and charisma. Soon, Dumbledore was embroiled in Grindelwald’s plans to subjugate Muggles on a global scale. Pooling their considerable resources, they could well have changed history. Protective of Ariana, Aberforth ended up in a duel with Grindelwald and Albus – to disastrous results.

Of course, this was the duel where a stray curse killed Ariana. Nobody knew for sure whose wand was to blame, but Grindelwald fled, having incapacitated Aberforth with an agonising Cruciatus Curse.

After Aberforth broke Albus’s nose at their sister’s funeral, decades of brooding resentment between the two brothers followed.

But Grindelwald was gone, and Albus soon turned from what could have been a dark path. Quite simply, every Muggle alive today owes Aberforth a debt of gratitude. Probably.

Sure, he was no saint. He threatened to take Slytherin pupils hostage during the final battle for Hogwarts. And his interest in goats drew official censure from the Wizengamot. Not that we need to focus on that.

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Illustration of Aberforth Dumbledore's goat Patronus

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But look at the wider picture. Without Aberforth Dumbledore the fate of Harry, his friends, Hogwarts and, indeed, the world would be a very different place. Because Aberforth Dumbledore truly was the GOAT.

As in: Greatest Of All Time.


Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

Journalism in the wizarding world

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Rita Skeeter interviews Harry in the broom cupboard, her Quick Quote Quill takes down all the notes.

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We’ve looked at some of the biggest journalistic scandals in recent wizarding history to see just how similar they are.

Muggles will never have Magizoologists, or an Improper Use of Magic Office slotted in next to the Department for Work and Pensions, but journalism is a shared vocation. If you compare some of the most newsworthy events on either side it syncs up remarkably often.

Unlike the surfeit of newspapers delivering news of current events to Muggles, the *Daily Prophet* seemed to be the only large wizarding newspaper in the United Kingdom, and initially it seemed to be an accurate source. Perhaps a little too accurate, in fact, employing an idiosyncratic method of reporting quotes precisely as they’re delivered even when it’s not strictly necessary:

> ‘Mr Weasley was unavailable for comment, although his wife told reporters to clear off or she’d set the family ghoul on them.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets* 

As time passed, however, the *Prophet* started churning out rumours and gossip, which the wizarding community has as healthy an appetite for as Muggles do. As [J.K. Rowling puts it](/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-daily-prophet), the *Prophet* ‘sometimes displays an unfortunately sensationalist tendency best epitomised by star reporter Rita Skeeter’.

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Rita Skeeter looking quizical from the Goblet of Fire 

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Harry first had the misfortune of meeting Rita in his fourth year, when she covered the Triwizard Tournament described in *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.* Rita, with her tight blonde curls, long nails and pointed spectacles, had a personality every bit as sharp as her magical Quick-Quotes Quill, which literally conjured salacious stories from thin air. She often wrote articles as revenge, manufacturing a story about Hermione Granger two-timing Harry that became one of the most famous scandals that year, and even had Mrs Weasley believing it. There are obvious parallels to be drawn between Rita’s Quill and Muggle tabloid newspapers, which can sometimes print first and offer retractions later – though this is at least an improvement on Rita, who didn’t offer retractions at all.

Hermione discovered Rita was an unregistered Animagus, turning into a beetle to eavesdrop around Hogwarts and giving a new meaning to being ‘bugged’. This kind of activity feels rather similar to the phone hacking scandals that rocked the British *News of the World* tabloid (among others) between 2005 and 2011. Heaven knows what Rita would have done if telephones were at her disposal as well.

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By the following year the *Prophet* was eschewing reports of Voldemort’s return in favour of mudslinging at both Harry and Professor Dumbledore, and later published uncomplimentary excerpts from Rita’s hastily-written biography of the latter. When pressed, Rita admitted this had a little something to do with Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge refusing to accept Voldemort’s return, saying: ‘Fudge is leaning on the *Prophet*.’ However, she also told Hermione that ‘*The Prophet* exists to sell itself, you silly girl!’ Clearly in wizarding publications integrity comes up hard against the profit margins, as often as it can do for Muggle journalists.

Between January and March 1991 the British newspaper the *The Guardian* published three essays by Jean Baudrillard collectively named ‘The Gulf War Did Not Take Place’. Baudrillard argued that media propaganda prevented the public from knowing what was actually happening. For the wizards and witches reading the *Daily Prophet*, as well as the stubborn attitude of Fudge, Voldemort’s second rise to power did not take place either, and the *Prophet* proved such a persuasive single source of information that people began to doubt Harry’s character even while actually knowing him. Seamus regarded Harry suspiciously even though they shared a dorm room.

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At the start of the Second Wizarding War communications went underground, with the creation of the clandestine radio show *Potterwatch*, dedicated to spreading word of the fight against Voldemort and reporting news that the Death Eater-controlled *Prophet* and Wizarding Wireless Network would not. Potterwatch was hosted by Lee Jordan, everyone appearing on *Potterwatch* had a code name, and tuning in to the show required a password that changed every week. These tactics are close to the radio network used by the French Resistance when France was occupied territory in the Second World War. Radio communications were key to passing intelligence, and the operators were passionate, inexperienced and always running the risk of being caught.

Fortunately, there are always smaller, independent alternatives for both wizards and Muggles. In the non-magical world ‘zines’, short for ‘fanzines’, exploded in the 1970s with the emergence of photocopiers and punk, a subculture marked by alternative ideas, interesting haircuts and ungoverned self-expression. The truest form of wizarding zine is *The Quibbler,* published by Xenophilius Lovegood, the father of Harry’s friend Luna. Xeno was determined to get the truth out — or at least, his truth, which was very earnest but didn’t always align with reality, and if being uncharitable one might say *The Quibbler* shared a few traits with conspiracy theory newsletters as well as zines.

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Luna wearing her Spectre Specs and clutching the Quibbler 

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Before the Second Wizarding War had begun it was *The Quibbler* that, in 1996, published Harry’s side of the story when the *Prophet* was discrediting his name, and earned itself the distinction of being banned on the Hogwarts grounds by the unrelentingly awful Dolores Umbridge. Remaining genuinely independent, *The Quibbler* was staunchly pro-Potter even at the height of the war. A truly punk publication.

It would be lovely to say that the wizarding world learned its lesson, but it seems their memories are as short as Muggle ones – or perhaps more exposed to Forgetfulness Charms. As recently as 2014 Rita delivered an underhand column on Harry and his close friends and family from the Quidditch World Cup. On the other hand, Ginny Potter offered much-needed balance as the *Prophet’s* senior Quidditch correspondent, and *The Quibbler* resumed publication after the Second Wizarding War without missing a beat (or a Crumple-Horned Snorkack).

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Harry Potter Colouring Book Quibbler page

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Magic may change the methods of journalism, but it can’t alter the nature, or remove the public desire to know just what is going on – even if we never quite get the full picture. It’s oddly comforting to know we have that much in common, don’t you think?

Why Tonks would be a brilliant big sister

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Tonks with pink hair and her wand from the Order of the Pheonix 

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Tonks in the Ministry of Magic from the Order of the Phoenix.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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and the Order of the Phoenix

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In the books Tonks was an only child, but we’re sure there are a few folks out there who wouldn’t mind her as a cool big sister. Here’s why.

## She gave the Order of the Phoenix a bit of style

Nymphadora, sorry, Tonks, entered the Harry Potter books as a young, rogueish punk with bright pink hair. Call us old squares, but it was a pretty cool entrance. Already an Auror, the Metamorphmagus wasn’t afraid of goofing around, either, which made her even cooler. It’s tough joining forces to take on Lord Voldemort, but Tonks managed to do it with aplomb.

## She’d always stick up for you

> ‘If you shout his name I will curse you into oblivion,’ muttered Tonks menacingly. 
 *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

A good sister stands up for her younger siblings and keeps them safe. When someone hurts them, that’s the cue for big sis to jump in, all wands a-blazing.

Tonks would have no trouble in that department. Don’t let her cheerful nature fool you – she could be pretty scary when she needed to be. As a trained Auror, battling Dark wizards was just another day at the office and she had hexes and jinxes to make your head spin (possibly literally, who knows?).

If Tonks was your sister, you’d pity the person who nicked your lunch money… not that anyone would dare to mess with you in the first place.

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## She’d cheer you up if you’d had a bad day

Imagine you’ve had an absolutely rotten day. You’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders and feel like nobody’s on your side. What would Tonks do if she saw you like that? Like any caring Hufflepuff, she’d be kind and supportive and let you talk it all out over a nice warm mug of tea (thanks to Molly Weasley, Tonks really appreciated the value of tea and sympathy). After that, she’d probably pull funny faces until she made you laugh again – she was good at that.

But what if, instead of a broken heart, you’d broken a nose or a toe? No worries – Tonks could sort that out, too.

> ‘Episkey,’ said Tonks. 
> Harry’s nose felt very hot, and then very cold. He raised a hand and felt it gingerly. It seemed to be mended. 
 *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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Tonks turning around with her wand from the Deathly Hallows 

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## She’d bring out your rebellious streak

> ‘My Head of House said I lacked certain necessary qualities.’ 
> ‘Like what?’ said Ginny, who was choosing a baked potato. 
> ‘Like the ability to behave myself,’ said Tonks. 
 *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

Tonks knew that some rules were made to be broken. Growing up with her, you’d get in enough hijinks to make Fred and George Weasley proud. But remember, you’d have to be extra careful while making mischief. Sneaking out of the house for a few cheeky Butterbeers would be fun, but sneaking back in might be a problem…

> CRASH. 
> ‘Tonks!’ cried Mrs Weasley in exasperation, turning to look behind her. 
> ‘I’m sorry!’ wailed Tonks, who was lying flat on the floor. ‘It’s that stupid umbrella stand, that’s the second time I’ve tripped over –’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

Did we mention Tonks was a bit of a klutz? Oh well, nobody’s perfect. Speaking of which…

## She’d accept you for who you were

Maybe you’re not the cleverest. Maybe you’re a bit of a loser. Maybe you happen to be a fully-fledged werewolf and people consider you a danger to their loved ones. Would Tonks treat you any differently? Of course not! She was wise enough to know it’s what’s inside that counts and she was a pretty good judge of character.

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Tonk and Lupin standing together from the Half Blood Prince 

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> ‘You see!’ said a strained voice. Tonks was glaring at Lupin. ‘She still wants to marry him, even though he’s been bitten! She doesn’t care!’ 
> ‘It’s different,’ said Lupin, barely moving his lips and looking suddenly tense. ‘Bill will not be a full werewolf. The cases are completely –’ 
> ‘But I don’t care either, I don’t care!’ said Tonks, seizing the front of Lupin’s robes and shaking them. ‘I’ve told you a million times …’ 
 *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince* 

As an added bonus you’d get a smart, caring brother-in-law who always had chocolate. But best of all…

## Maybe you’d be a Metamorphmagus

> ‘You know, I don’t think violet’s really my colour,’ she said pensively, tugging at a lock of spiky hair. ‘D’you think it makes me look a bit peaky?’ 
> ‘Er –’ said Harry, looking up at her over the top of Quidditch Teams of Britain and Ireland. 
> ‘Yeah, it does,’ said Tonks decisively. She screwed up her eyes in a strained expression as though she was struggling to remember something. A second later, her hair had turned bubble-gum pink. 
 *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

A Metamorphmagus – someone able to change appearance at will – is ‘born, not made’. Tonks passed the ability to little Teddy Remus, so we know it must run in families.

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Illustration of Tonks from the Order of the Phoenix 

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Picture this: it’s Friday night, you and Tonks are ready to party, but you’re having a bad hair day and need to be out the door in seconds. Not a problem. Just scrunch up your face and, bam: instant beehives/mohawks/whatever does it for you.

Not only do you look fab, you’re also a master of disguise. Suppose you’re at a gig (Tonks is bound to know where the cool bands are playing) but there’s someone in the crowd you really want to avoid talking to. Simple – just change your face and walk right on past them.

With Tonks you’d have a sister who’s cool, kind and fun. Together you’d be ready to paint the town red. Or turquoise. Or bubble-gum pink.

Albus Dumbledore's moving portrait

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Moving portrait 2 

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Pottermore has envisioned what Albus Dumbledore’s official Hogwarts portrait would look like, with the help of artist Jessica Roux.

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Animated illustration of Albus Dumbledore's portrait

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Hogwarts is well known for its many magical portraits, with each painting embodying the character and personality of its subject. [Albus Dumbledore’s](/news/jude-law-cast-as-albus-dumbledore-in-next-fantastic-beasts-film) portrait is particularly special, and is there to warmly congratulate Harry right at the end of *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.*

We’ve always wanted an Albus Dumbledore portrait of our own, so here he is for your enjoyment. Feel free to peruse his desk, have a look at his book collection and say hello to Fawkes the phoenix.

In defence of Petunia Dursley 

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Aunt Petunia looking shocked from the Prisoner of Azkaban 

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> ‘Lily, don’t do it!’ shrieked the elder of the two. 
> But the girl had let go of the swing at the very height of its arc and flown into the air, quite literally flown, launched herself skywards with a great shout of laughter, and instead of crumpling on the playground asphalt, she soared, like a trapeze artist through the air, staying up far too long, landing far too lightly. 
> ‘Mummy told you not to!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

## A Muggle childhood

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Petunia Dursley had plenty of reasons to hate and fear magic back when her name was Petunia Evans. As a child, she watched her little sister Lily do many strange things. To make matters worse, Lily Evans befriended a bedraggled boy named Severus Snape who didn’t think Lily was strange at all, and told her all about ‘magic’. 

As Petunia was the Muggle sister, it wasn’t long before Snape turned on her, using his power to make a branch fall and hit her. As well as the physical damage, he added further insult to injury by emotionally hurting her too. 

> ‘Wouldn’t spy on you, anyway,’ he added spitefully, ‘you’re a Muggle.’ 
> Though Petunia evidently did not understand the word, she could hardly mistake the tone. 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

Experiences like these would have shaped Petunia’s attitude to magic for years to come. 

From Snape’s final memories bestowed to Harry, it seems the Evans sisters used to have a close relationship. They bickered (as sisters do) but we also saw them playing together, sticking up for each other and Lily affectionately calling her big sis ‘Tuney’.

Unfortunately there was no escaping the fact that one girl possessed gifts that the other did not. This situation is difficult enough among Muggle siblings, so what happens when this ‘gift’ happens to be magic? And where did that leave poor Petunia? 

> ‘You didn’t think it was such a freak’s school when you wrote to the Headmaster and begged him to take you.’ 
> Petunia turned scarlet. 
> ‘Beg? I didn’t beg!’ 
> ‘I saw his reply. It was very kind.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

## Worlds apart

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LilyJames PM Memorial

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When Lily boarded the Hogwarts Express, the girls were separated in more ways than one. They realised they belonged to two different worlds and Petunia couldn’t help but feel left behind. In her eyes, magic probably tore the family apart. 

Petunia envied her sister’s abilities, and frankly who wouldn’t? Everyone wants to feel special and we’ve all wished we had magical abilities at some point. When forced to accept that she’d never be a witch, Petunia fashioned an identity as the ‘normal’ one, taking pride in conformity and using Lily’s ‘weirdness’ as a means of one-upmanship. 

> ‘I was the only one who saw her for what she was – a freak! But for my mother and father, oh no, it was Lily this and Lily that, they were proud of having a witch in the family!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

## From sisters to strangers

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VernonDursley WB F1 VernonDursleyProtectingPetunia Still 080615 Port

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Petunia and Lily’s rift grew deeper when they married – to put it lightly – very different men. Vernon Dursley’s poor first impression of James Potter meant that the two couples saw very little of each other. Meanwhile Vernon would have encouraged the worst aspects of Petunia’s character, making her petty, judgemental and incredibly bitter towards anything or anyone ‘different’.

No doubt Petunia would have been saddened by the news of Lily’s death but those complicated emotions – grief, regret and unresolved jealousy – were probably buried in the distractions of housework, gossip and pandering to her son Dudley’s every whim. 

Harry’s presence agitated and unnerved Petunia because he reminded her of things she spent her life trying to avoid. His eyes – Lily’s eyes – recalled the sister she’d lost and the broken relationship that could never be mended. Petunia knew her nephew was destined for the magical world she once desperately longed to be a part of, rekindling old jealousies and feelings of inferiority. To cope with not being magical herself, Petunia seemed to have decided magic was a bad thing.

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PrivetDrive PM B1C1M2 DumbledoreAndCatAtPrivetDrive Moment

Dumbledore uses the Deluminator outside the Dursley's house.

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Additionally Petunia knew that Harry’s world was full of danger and put her own family at risk… including precious Ickle Dudleykins! Yes, we all giggled at Dudley’s curly tail and misadventures with Ton-Tongue Toffee, but from a mother’s point of view, those incidents were actually quite horrific. That’s saying nothing of the Dementors and Lord Voldemort, terrors Petunia knows are all too real.

> Aunt Petunia had never in her life looked at him like that before. Her large, pale eyes (so unlike her sister’s) were not narrowed in dislike or anger, they were wide and fearful. The furious pretence that Aunt Petunia had maintained all Harry’s life – that there was no magic and no world other than the world she inhabited with Uncle Vernon – seemed to have fallen away. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

## Last moments

In their last moments together at Privet Drive, Petunia hesitated but ultimately neglected to leave her nephew with any loving gesture or words of support. This felt disappointing as she’d already failed to make peace with Lily and appeared to be making the same mistake again. Would she regret it?

*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 [Narcissa Malfoy](/feature/in-defence-of-narcissa-malfoy "In defence of Narcissa Malfoy").*

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