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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

Care of Magical Creatures series: introducing the new fantastic beasts

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To celebrate the new edition of *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*, Pottermore has commissioned artist Andy Singleton to bring the six new beasts to life, in 3D paper form. 

Some additions may already be familiar, such as the Thunderbird – introduced in the film *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*. The five other new creatures also featured in J.K. Rowling’s original writing about the North American wizarding school, ‘[Ilvermorny](/writing-by-jk-rowling/ilvermorny).’ 

## Snallygaster 

The Snallygaster is part bird, part reptile and a distant relative of the Occamy. Here, the curious creature is imagined as a feathered dinosaur, covered in scales.

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Photograph of a paper model of a Snallygaster, by artist Andy Singleton

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## Horned Serpent 

The Horned Serpent holds a special significance to the history of the North American wizarding school, Ilvermorny, as one of the school’s four house animals. The school’s founder Isolt Sayre could understand the creature, and used shavings from its horn to create wands. 

The model’s eyes look fierce but intelligent. An apt depiction, since the creature’s house is traditionally home to scholars.

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Photograph of a paper model of a Horned Serpent, by artist Andy Singleton

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## Thunderbird 

Another Ilvermorny house animal, the Thunderbird is known for its majestic appearance and the power to create storms as it flies. Here, the storm has been realised through layers of paper, and you can make out the bird’s multiple wings.

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Photograph of a paper model of a Thunderbird, by artist Andy Singleton

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## Hidebehind 

The tall, silvery Hidebehind is nocturnal and can hide behind almost anything to conceal itself. According to J.K. Rowling, only a witch or wizard is likely to survive an attack from this creature, here depicted almost sloth-like and with a slightly sinister smile.

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Photograph of a paper model of a Hidebehind, by artist Andy Singleton

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## Wampus Cat 

The inspiration for another Ilvermorny house, the Wampus Cat is feline in appearance and classified as ‘XXXXX’ in Newt Scamander’s book *Fantastic Beasts* – meaning it’s a known wizard killer that cannot be domesticated. The model here alludes to some of the Wampus Cat’s greater powers of hypnosis and Legilimency.

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Photograph of a paper model of a Wampus, by artist Andy Singleton

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## Hodag 

Last, but not least, is the Hodag, a frog-headed creature with long fangs and red glowing eyes. Reputed to be the size of a large dog, the Hodag model looks powerful and rather like a hyena.

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Photograph of a paper model of a Hodag, by artist Andy Singleton

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*The new edition of* Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them *is now available from the [Pottermore Shop](https://gbp.shop.pottermore.com/collections/fantastic-beasts-and-where-to-find-them/english?utm_source=Homepage&utm_medium=Pottermore&utm_campaign=FBLibraryLaunch20170314). The digital audio book of Fantastic Beasts, narrated by Eddie Redmayne, is also available from [Pottermore](https://gbp.shop.pottermore.com/products/fantastic-beasts-library-audio-book-english?utm_medium=Pottermore&utm_campaign=FBLibraryLaunch20170314).*

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

Why we think Remus Lupin is the best Marauder

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James Potter and Sirius Black are fan favourites in the Harry Potter world. Their confidence and rebelliousness made them the subject of many a fan’s idle daydreaming about what Hogwarts would have been like before Harry Potter’s time.

Remus has always been a bit underrated. He was more reserved, bookish and quiet than James or Sirius, but here’s why we think he was actually the best Marauder.

## He was genuinely kind 

In the film *Prisoner of Azkaban* (2004), Remus told Harry that his mother Lily was ‘uncommonly kind’ – but the same could be said of him, too. 

Time and time again, Remus displayed how thoughtful, caring and compassionate he was. During one of his first lessons as Defence Against the Dark Arts professor at Hogwarts, Snape couldn’t help but make a disparaging and cruel remark about Neville Longbottom. Remus tactfully stood up for Neville, leaving Snape speechless.

> ‘Possibly no one’s warned you, Lupin, but this class contains Neville Longbottom. I would advise you not to entrust him with anything difficult. Not unless Miss Granger is hissing instructions in his ear.’
> 
> Neville went scarlet. Harry glared at Snape; it was bad enough that he bullied Neville in his own classes, let alone doing it in front of other teachers.
> 
> Professor Lupin had raised his eyebrows.
> 
> ‘I was hoping that Neville would assist me with the first stage of the operation,’ he said, ‘and I am sure he will perform it admirably.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*

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Lupin teaches the Patronus charm to Harry. 

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Remus always stuck up for the underdog. Perhaps it was the wolf in him; they are pack animals, after all. 

## He knew what it was like to be an outsider 

In Remus’s early years, he and his parents Lyall and Hope were always on the move and never settled in one place for too long. After Remus was attacked, and his monthly transformations became more dangerous, the family did everything to protect their son from detection – which also meant not letting anyone get too close. 

When Remus was invited to Hogwarts, he discovered for the first time in his life what it was like to have friends. However, Remus never forgot what loneliness felt like and showed more sympathy to outsiders than either James or Sirius.

While James and Sirius took a certain kind of pleasure in tormenting Severus Snape during their Hogwarts years, Remus avoided joining in with his friends’ bullying behaviour. Dumbledore even made Remus a prefect, perhaps in the hopes that he might be able to exert a bit more control over James and Sirius. While that didn’t exactly work out, it’s a testament to Remus’s strong sense of right and wrong that he never condoned what his friends did. 

## He believed in second chances 

When the Order of the Phoenix was reconvened in the fifth Harry Potter book, the old wounds from the Marauders’ era at Hogwarts were re-opened. Sirius and Snape, who hated each other as young adults, still regarded each other with animosity. Snape’s general popularity wasn’t helped – for obvious reasons – by the fact that the other members of the Order were aware that, for a time, he supported Voldemort.

Remus, despite knowing that Snape had his differences with James and Sirius, found it in himself to give Snape another chance. He knew that people could change and believed in giving people second chances – regardless of who they were or what they had done in the past. Dumbledore’s influence was clear. It was he who invited Remus to Hogwarts as a student in the first place, despite his lycanthropy. 

## He brought out the best in people 

Remus was pretty much good at everything. He received excellent grades during his time at Hogwarts, was made a prefect, helped create the incredibly detailed and magical Marauder’s Map, and could effortlessly cast a Patronus.

But beyond being a talented wizard, one of Remus’s greatest skills was helping others to realise their potential. He was considered by the students in Harry’s year at Hogwarts to be the best Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher they’d ever had (seeing as Mad-Eye Moody ended up being a Death Eater in disguise…). By the time Lupin left Hogwarts, Harry was casting advanced protective spells. Would Harry have ever become an Auror without Remus as a teacher? 

We shouldn’t forget to mention that the final exam Remus set for his students was an obstacle course. A+ Professor Lupin – or we should say, Outstanding!

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## He would do anything to protect his loved ones 

When Remus left his wife, Nymphadora Tonks, and their newborn son Teddy to fight at the Battle of Hogwarts in *Deathly Hallows*, it was because he wanted to create a better future for his family. He wanted to protect his son from a world in which Voldemort was in power.

When Harry used the Resurrection Stone, the recently-departed Remus appeared among Harry’s lost loved ones. Remus spoke of his newborn son, telling Harry, ‘I am sorry too … Sorry I will never know him … but he will know why I died and I hope he will understand. I was trying to make a world in which he could live a happier life.’

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## He still had that trademark Marauders wit 

James and Sirius may be thought of as the charming, nonchalant ones in the Marauders, but Remus was just as witty. When Professor Snape discovered Harry carrying the Marauders Map in *Prisoner of Azkaban*, he tried to command the blank parchment to reveal its secrets. In return, the map insulted Snape using Remus’s words – with more snark than one might expect from the mild-mannered professor: ‘Mr Moony presents his compliments to Professor Snape and begs him to keep his abnormally large nose out of other people’s business.’

And let’s not forget the time that Remus responded to Peeves singing ‘Loony, loopy Lupin’ by shooting a wad of chewing gum up his nose.

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Moony Padfoot Prongs and Wormtail at Hogwarts by the lake

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## He carried chocolate with him everywhere 

Finally, Remus was also the type of teacher who carried chocolate around with him, just in case any of his students needed a pick-me-up after an encounter with a Dementor. Another reason why he was simply the best.

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7 times that Professor Trelawney actually got it right

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Sybill Trelawney looking mystically mad from the Prisoner of Azkaban 

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## That time she made that prophecy. You know, the famous one 

> ‘The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches ... born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies... and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives ... the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies…’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

We all had a bit of a laugh at Professor Trelawney’s soggy tea leaves when Harry, Ron and Hermione took on Divination, so imagine Harry’s consternation when it turned out she actually made the prophecy that defined his entire life. 

Although the prophecy was very much self-fulfilling in that Voldemort acted the way he did *because* of the prophecy (not unlike a Greek tragedy), it definitely unfolded the way Trelawney told it. The one who could vanquish the Dark Lord would be marked as his equal, and have power the Dark Lord knows not; Harry of course turned out to be a Horcrux and was protected due to his mother’s sacrifice.

Even more fascinating is that if Voldemort had gone the other way, these books could have ended up being called *Neville Longbottom and the… fill in the blanks.* After all, Neville was also ‘born as the seventh month dies’ and was born to parents who had defied Voldemort on three occasions. Even odder still is that Harry and Neville ended up being good friends, with Neville even finishing off one of the Dark Lord’s Horcruxes.

[We actually explored what might've been with Neville here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/what-if-neville-was-the-chosen-one)

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## When she predicted the rebirth of Voldemort

It’s a real shame for Trelawney that, on the rare occasions she predicted a hugely important prophecy, she promptly forgot all about it and went back to seeing Grims in teacups.

Harry’s Divination exam was a classic example. Much to his concern, his teacher went into a strange fugue and foretold that ‘the servant’ would set out to rejoin his master, and the Dark Lord would rise, ‘greater and more terrible than ever before’.

It may have sounded pretty grandiose and unbelievable, and even Trelawney herself dismissed it as ‘far-fetched’ but she had, in fact, done it again. Peter Pettigrew did indeed reunite with Voldemort, and assisted him in his rebirth, where he used Harry’s blood to restore the Dark wizard to power.

When it came to Lord Voldemort, Trelawney’s inner eye always had him covered.

## When she knew all about Neville’s broken teacup

So when she wasn’t foreshadowing the return of Lord Voldemort, she was foreshadowing the demise of her china collection.

Poor Neville Longbottom ended up breaking a teacup or two almost immediately after Trelawney predicted he would. Of course, it does beg the question: did Neville break the teacup because he had been told he would, which made him nervous and jumpy? Or was it really written in the stars? Either way, we have to give this one to Professor Trelawney – Hermione would be appalled.

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

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## Knowing that someone from her class would ‘leave forever’

We would win the ‘Understatement of the Year’ award by suggesting that Hermione didn’t quite like Divination. The biggest bookworm in Hogwarts denounced the subject as ‘woolly’ and a lot of ‘guesswork’, so it wasn’t terribly surprisingly when Hermione decided she’d had enough of pulling apart Professor Trelawney’s ‘predictions’ and packed the lesson in.

Ironically, this actually fulfilled Trelawney’s earlier prediction where she foretold that ‘one of our number will leave forever’. Cosmic! Or maybe she could just sense Hermione didn’t like her.

## The fate of Lavender’s pet rabbit

Lavender Brown, along with Padma and Parvati Patil, were huge Divination devotees and hung on to Professor Trelawney’s every word like it was gospel. So when Lavender was warned that the thing she had been dreading would take place on Friday the sixteenth of October, she took it very, very seriously. Spookily, Lavender received a letter on that very day informing her that her rabbit had been killed by a fox.

Technically, had Lavender really been dreading the death of the little guy? Whether or not the wording was quite correct, the date was sound enough.

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## ‘13 at the dinner table…’

This was more of a superstition than a prediction, but once again Sybil stumbled upon something. In *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,* Professor Trelawney was more than reluctant to join them for Christmas dinner because 12 people were already seated. According to Trelawney, when 13 people are at the table, the first person to rise will be the first to die. What a way to get out of a social gathering! 

If you only give this section of the book a quick read without much thought, you’d be forgiven for thinking she got this one spectacularly wrong. However, look a little bit closer and you’ll see that Ron constantly carried Scabbers in his pocket due to the looming threat of Crookshanks, and seeing that the rat was actually Peter Pettigrew, that made 13 already at the table before Trelawney sat down. Albus Dumbledore was the first to rise when he greeted her... and he was indeed the first of that group to die.

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## When she mentioned a ‘lightning-struck tower’

When Harry overheard Professor Trelawney muttering to herself and shuffling her cards, he didn’t think much of it. But pay attention to her seemingly pointless ramblings, as they seem to be distressingly accurate. Professor Trelawney was agitated because Dumbledore wouldn’t heed her warnings of approaching doom.

She repeatedly saw ‘the lightning-struck tower. Calamity. Disaster. Coming nearer all the time.’ 

Alone, these utterances don’t hold much significance... but when Dumbledore was hit by the Killing Curse at the top of the Astronomy Tower mere hours later, everything suddenly slotted together.

Everything we know about the lives of the Marauders

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Prongs, Padfoot, Moony and Wormtail in their transfigured animal forms.

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## ‘I solemnly swear that I am up to no good.’

> ‘My whole family have been in Slytherin,’ he said. 
> ‘Blimey,’ said James, ‘and I thought you seemed all right!’ 
> Sirius grinned. 
> ‘Maybe I’ll break the tradition. Where are you heading, if you’ve got the choice?’ 
> James lifted an invisible sword. 
> ‘“Gryffindor, where dwell the brave at heart!” Like my dad.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows* 

James Potter first met Sirius Black aboard the Hogwarts Express. They sat in the same carriage as Lily Evans and Severus Snape, and let’s just say they didn’t exactly hit it off with Snape. After the Sorting, James and Sirius took a shine to the quiet but clever Remus Lupin, who had taken pity on a short, slow boy named Peter Pettigrew. From then on, they were inseparable.

The four were viewed (by themselves at least) as the rock stars of Hogwarts. James was a Quidditch hero and, in case anyone forgot this detail, frequently messed up his hair for added windswept effect and tossed around a Golden Snitch. Sirius was a good-looking rebel and proudly defiant of his family’s Slytherin affiliations, adorning his bedroom walls with Gryffindor colours along with pictures of motorbikes and Muggle girls. Quick-witted Remus was the brains of the operation who tried (and often failed) to keep the rest of the group in check. As for Peter, well... Peter was there too. His habit of attaching himself to strong personalities would play an important part in later events.

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But the gang were not universally adored. They were particularly cruel to Severus, who would never forget how horribly he’d been treated even into adulthood. Lily too was no fan of James, whom she described as ‘an arrogant toerag’. Like most teenagers, the boys had a lot of growing up to do.

> ‘Sometimes you remind me a lot of James. He called it my “furry little problem” in company. Many people were under the impression that I owned a badly behaved rabbit.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince* 

Tragically Remus carried an affliction, which his parents, Hope and Lyall Lupin, thought would prevent him from attending school (of course, Dumbledore made special arrangements). As a child, Remus survived an attack which left him a fully-fledged werewolf. With his monthly transformations and ill health, he feared it was only a matter of time before his friends learned his secret.

> ‘And they didn’t desert me at all. Instead they did something for me that would make my transformations not only bearable, but the best times of my life. They became Animagi.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* 

Thus the Marauders were born. James became Prongs the stag, Sirius was Padfoot the dog and Peter, with more than a little help from his friends, transformed into Wormtail the rat. Remus also earned the nickname ‘Moony’ on account of his lycanthropy. Together they roamed the grounds as animals, exploring every nook and cranny of Hogwarts. Their greatest invention, the Marauder’s Map, recorded all their favourite secret passages and blazed the trail for future troublemakers.

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## ‘The Dark Lord’s servant’ – Wormtail’s betrayal

After graduating, the four friends were recruited into Dumbledore’s Order of the Phoenix. Mrs Potter (yes, James eventually grew on Lily) was also a member and soon the happy couple were celebrating the birth of their son, Harry. Sirius, who had been the best man at their wedding, was named the baby’s godfather.

However, all was not well. Once a certain prophecy came to light, little Harry was targeted by Lord Voldemort. The Potters went into hiding at Godric’s Hollow and, taking the advice of Sirius, appointed the unassuming Peter as their secret-keeper. Unfortunately, Peter had turned spy for ‘the biggest bully in the playground’ and saw a golden opportunity to win Voldemort’s favour. Thanks to his betrayal, James and Lily were murdered trying to protect their son.

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Peter Pettigrew transforms back into a rat and escapes.

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> ‘… it must have been the finest moment of your miserable life, telling Voldemort you could hand him the Potters.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* 

An enraged Sirius immediately sought revenge. During their confrontation, Peter caused an explosion that killed several bystanders before escaping into the sewers in his rat form, leaving behind his severed finger. Sirius, a member of the notorious Black family, was found at the scene of the crime maniacally laughing. He could hardly have looked more like a deranged murderer if he tried.

Sirius spent the next 12 years in Azkaban. Remus was heartbroken at the loss of his friends and found himself alone once more. Peter, who was posthumously awarded the Order of Merlin, laid low as a rat and was taken in by the Weasley family as a pet.

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Pottermore illustration Sirius Black

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## ‘Cat, rat and dog’ – an unexpected reunion

Shocking truths were revealed and important events were set in motion one night at the Shrieking Shack. Sirius had escaped Azkaban after spotting ‘Scabbers’ in the *Daily Prophet.* Meanwhile Remus had been made Professor Lupin and was teaching Defence Against the Dark Arts to James’s teenage son. Peter realised his number was up at Hogwarts with one old friend resident as a teacher, another an escaped convict and a suspicious ginger moggy on his tail. Once again, he faked his own death… and he almost got away with it.

Harry’s friends, the Marauders and even Severus Snape all wound up at the Shrieking Shack where the truth finally emerged. James’s presence was also felt in the form of his son’s Patronus. In Dumbledore’s words the following day, ‘Prongs rode again last night.’

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Patronus PM B3C21M3HarrysPatronusChargingDownDementorsAcrossTheLake.Moment

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

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Unfortunately, this took place during a full moon. Before Sirius’s name could be cleared Remus transformed and Peter escaped in the ensuing chaos. Afterwards Peter returned to his master, Remus resigned and Sirius went on the run with a fellow fugitive – a Hippogriff named Buckbeak. He always did like to travel in style.

## ‘I open at the close’ – the final gathering

Sirius died two years later, battling Death Eaters at his beloved godson’s side. Peter was strangled to death by his silver hand – a gift from Lord Voldemort – the moment he showed mercy to Harry. Remus, the last Marauder standing, was killed at the Battle of Hogwarts along with his wife Nymphadora Tonks. The couple left a son, Teddy Remus Lupin, to whom Harry had agreed to be godfather.

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NymphadoraTonks WB F6 NymphadoraTonksAndRemusLupinPromoShot Promo 080615 Port

Tonk and Lupin standing together from the Half Blood Prince 

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We last saw the Marauders together (minus Peter, but joined by Lily) in the Forbidden Forest. Reunited by the Resurrection Stone, the Marauders helped Harry find the courage he needed to make the ultimate sacrifice. Thanks to this, Voldemort was defeated and peace was restored to the magical world. The Marauders were gone but their legacy would live forever.

Mischief managed. 

> ‘You’ll stay with me?’ 
> ‘Until the very end,’ said James. 
> ‘They won’t be able to see you?’ asked Harry. 
> ‘We are part of you,’ said Sirius. ‘Invisible to anyone else.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

PMARCHIVE-Voldemort PM B7C34M1 VoldemortAndDeathEatersInForbiddenForest Moment 30Lb642HoskqYWI2i0802i

Voldemort PM B7C34M1 VoldemortAndDeathEatersInForbiddenForest Moment

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

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