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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

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[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

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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

Aunt Muriel vs. Aunt Marge 

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In Harry Potter’s life, aunties were rarely cute and cuddly. Can you imagine getting a warm hug from Aunt Petunia? It just ain’t gonna happen. 

It seems that in both the Muggle and magical realms, annoying aunts proliferate – just look at two famed examples: Aunt Marge and Great Aunt Muriel.

Despite their totally contrasting lives (one bred dogs, while the other bred ‘ill-informed sniping’ according to Elphias Doge) these two grumpy women were similarly infuriating. 

## Who was Aunt Marge?

She was Vernon Dursley’s sister, so Dudley’s auntie. While technically no blood relation of Harry’s, he had been bullied into calling her ‘Aunt Marge’ all his life. She visited number four Privet Drive only rarely, as she lived in the country, bred bulldogs and found it difficult to be away from her beloved animals overnight. 

Never mind that there was a spacious guest room in the Dursley household set aside for her rare appearances, while Harry languished in the cupboard under the stairs or Dudley’s ‘second bedroom’.

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## What was she like?

Aunt Marge took after her brother in oh-so-many ways, and was described as ‘large, beefy and purple-faced’. She even had a moustache, although it wasn’t as bushy as her brother’s. She adored ‘Dudders’ and spent much of her visits comparing Harry unfavourably to her ‘healthy-sized’ nephew (her words, not ours). 

As for Harry, he was an ungrateful wretch (again, her words…) who should have been sent to an orphanage rather than have been taken in by Vernon and Petunia. She once whacked a five-year-old Harry on the shins with her walking stick to stop him beating Dudley at musical statues and she was a keen advocate of corporal punishment in schools.

## What happened when Harry met her?

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Harry was used to putting up with Aunt Marge’s visits. But as his magical abilities grew, Vernon and Petunia became more and more nervous about exposing Harry to her. They pretended that he was attending St Brutus’s Secure Centre for Incurably Criminal Boys and Harry did his best to keep out of her way during an interminable five-day visit. But, after partaking generously of Vernon’s after-dinner brandy, Marge started commenting on Harry’s parents, describing his mum as a ‘bad egg’ and his father as a ‘wastrel’. 

> Aunt Marge suddenly stopped speaking. For a moment, it looked as though words had failed her. She seemed to be swelling with inexpressible anger – but the swelling didn’t stop. Her great red face started to expand, her tiny eyes bulged and her mouth stretched too tightly for speech. Next second, several buttons burst from her tweed jacket and pinged off the walls – she was inflating like a monstrous balloon, her stomach bursting free of her tweed waistband, each of her fingers blowing up like a salami … 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*

## Who was Auntie Muriel?

Technically Mrs Weasley’s great aunt, this elderly witch lived fairly close to The Burrow but didn’t come for Christmas anymore since that time Fred and George put a Dungbomb under her chair. She owned an impressive family heirloom in the form of a goblin-made tiara, which she leant to Fleur for her wedding to Bill. 

She let her home be used as a safehouse by the Order of the Phoenix, but was otherwise something of a lone wolf. She knew plenty of high-profile wizards and witches, had links to the likes of Bathilda Bagshot and was party to all the rumours that plagued Dumbledore in his youth.

## What was she like?

If there was a nit to be picked then Auntie Muriel was right in there with her sharp claws. It was something of a running joke among the Weasley children that she couldn’t see them without insulting each of them thoroughly in turn – which was impressive, considering how many of them there were. 

At Bill and Fleur’s wedding she was rude about pretty much everyone she came across: in her view a yellow-robed Xenophilius Lovegood resembled an ‘omelette’; she told Fred he has lopsided ears; Hermione, resplendent in her dress robes, was met with ‘Oh dear, is this the Muggle-born?’ and received comments on her ‘bad posture and skinny ankles’. To which Ron reassured her: ‘Don’t take it personally, she’s rude to everyone.’				
	
## What happened when Harry met her?

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The lynx Patronus interrupts Bill and Fleur's wedding with a warning.

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He disguised himself as a distant Weasley called ‘Barny’ (with no e! Madness!) so he could attend Bill and Fleur’s wedding – which meant Aunt Muriel had no idea who she was talking to. She immediately launched into gossip prompted by the publication of Rita Skeeter’s biography of Albus Dumbledore, taking it upon herself to allude to nasty rumours and scandals about which Harry hadn’t the faintest clue – and which made him question his whole relationship with the late Hogwarts headmaster.

Verbalising these old scandals ‘seemed to elate’ Muriel as much as they horrified Dumbledore’s old school pal Elphias Doge. One got the impression she thrived on gossip and infamy, at any cost. 

> ‘There’s no need to look like a pair of stuffed frogs! Before he became so respected and respectable and all that tosh, there were some mighty funny rumours about Albus!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

So, who was the most despicable aunt to end them all? We fear it’s maybe too close to call...

*Our poll is now closed. Our winner? The one and only Aunt Marge! Boo!*

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

Priori Incantatem: A history of Hufflepuff magic

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Cedric stands in the maze prepared to take on the horrors that lie within.

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Hufflepuffs have a reputation of being a bit soft, but if we analyse the house judging by their members, and how they use magic, we realise that Hufflepuffs are just as hard-edged as Gryffindors. We’ve taken the most notable names from Hufflepuff house and analysed their wand histories. You can tell a lot about a wizard by the types of spells they use, but what can you learn about a whole house?

## Cedric Diggory

Notable spells:

*Transfiguration:* used to distract the dragon in the first task of the Triwizard Tournament 
*Bubble-Head Charm:* used to explore the Great Lake in the second task 
*Lumos:* used to navigate the maze in the third task
Stupefy: used against a giant spider 

Cedric’s ash wand contained a hair from a ‘particularly fine male unicorn’. In the Triwizard Tournament, its owner proves more than worthy of the instrument.

Transfiguration is complicated magic at the best of times. Imagine trying to do it with all your schoolmates, your teachers and a dragon watching your every move. But Cedric successfully turned a rock into a labrador, tricking the Swedish Short-Snout into chasing it long enough to steal the golden egg (relax, dog-lovers – that pooch wasn’t real!). 

For his next trick Cedric navigated the depths of the Great Lake thanks to the Bubble-Head Charm. In the final task, Cedric needed a sound knowledge of magical creatures and an array of charms and jinxes up his sleeve. He proved to be a real innovator as well as a talented wizard.

Cedric showed not just skill but also sportsmanship throughout the tournament. Victory would be meaningless if he didn’t play fair, which made Cedric an exemplary Hufflepuff. 

## Nymphadora Tonks

Notable spells: 

*Locomotor:* moves Harry’s trunk in *Order of the Phoenix* 
*Episkey:* heals Harry’s broken nose in *Half-Blood Prince* 
*The Patronus Charm:* summons wolf Patronus in *Half-Blood Prince* 
*Protego:* used to protect the area at Bill and Fleur’s wedding in *Deathly Hallows* 

Tonks was a playful Metamorphmagus with a fondness for bubblegum-pink hair. But don’t let her looks deceive you – she was a highly-trained Auror who would do anything to protect those she loves.

As a protégée of Alastor ‘Mad-Eye’ Moody, Tonks’s training would’ve been tough indeed. Good thing too, as she’d need all her skills to survive the Department of Mysteries, the Astronomy Tower and the Battle of the Seven Potters, especially as mad auntie Bellatrix really had it in for her. 

However, this was only half the story. Thanks to her caring nature, we were just as likely to see Tonks using protective charms or healing minor injuries – which, given her self-confessed clumsiness, was probably something she had a lot of practice in.

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Tonks looking scared with Lupin at her side from the Half Blood Prince.

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Perhaps the most impressive display of Tonks’s magic was the Patronus she summoned while escorting Harry. Not only was this a highly advanced spell, but she managed this non-verbally, used it as a method of communication and accomplished all of this during a dark period before she got together with Remus. But her silver wolf, a light in the darkness and a symbol of her love, told us that Tonks never gave up hope. A very Hufflepuff attitude. 

## Newt Scamander

Notable spells: 

*Accio* (verbal and non-verbal) 
*Alohomora* 
*Petrificus Totalus* 
*Finestra* 
*Revelio* 

When a Magizoologist’s critters go on the run, he’s got to think fast and know the right spells to bring them in. In New York City, Newt definitely had his work cut out for him.

Once a naughty Niffler spied treasure, there were few wizards who could put a stop to its scavenging. Fortunately one of them happened to be Newt, who used an array of simple charms to great effect during the chase.

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Newt with his wand drawn in City Hall subway station,  New York

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Let’s take a moment to talk about Newt’s case, which boasted some serious Extension Charms along with a handy ‘Muggleworthy’ setting. What he did with the interior was truly remarkable: not only had he created a portable animal kingdom, he’d also got the herbs and potions at hand to whip up a remedy should someone suffer a nasty bite. We’d say Newt thought of everything… although he really should have looked at getting that lock fixed.

Though humble and awkward around people, Newt came alive in the company of his furrier and feathered friends. The care and patience he showed towards his creatures bore every hallmark of Hufflepuff. 

## The Hufflepuffs of Dumbledore’s Army 

Ernie Macmillan, Hannah Abbott, Justin Finch-Fletchley, Susan Bones and Zacharias Smith.

Notable spells: 

*Expelliarmus* 
*Stupefy* 
*Reducto* 
*Expecto Patronum* 

When Harry and his friends started a secret club many Hufflepuffs were eager to join the ranks, even if it meant going right under the nose of that horrible Dolores Umbridge. We’re sure they’d agree it was worth the risk after Harry taught them everything he knew about magical self defence. 

The D.A. work overtime mastering spells to disarm, stun or disable attackers, all under Harry’s watchful eye. As we know, Hufflepuffs are no strangers to hard work, so these students were in their element. They learnt lots from Harry and got to return the favour at the end of the year by thwarting an ambush from Malfoy, Crabbe and Goyle.

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Harry and Dumbledore's Army in the Room of Requirement 

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Apart from Zacharias letting the side down, the D.A. Hufflepuffs were out on form at the Battle of Hogwarts. We saw them risk life and limb battling dangerous creatures and Death Eaters throughout the castle. At least one member even conjured a corporeal Patronus – Ernie Macmillan, taking the form of a boar. 

Once again, the Hufflepuff students showed us what they’re made of. Honest, loyal and always there when you need them, they embody all the great qualities of their house.

7 things that put the twinkle in Dumbledore’s eye

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Dumbledore smiling from the Philosopher's Stone 

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Professor Dumbledore’s Chocolate Frog card told us he enjoyed ‘chamber music and tenpin bowling’. Yep, Dumbledore wasn’t exactly a wizard of traditional taste.

Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore was wise, refined and greatly respected – and yet it was all balanced out with a childlike demeanour and an ability to find joy in life’s simple pleasures. Here are a few things that put the twinkle behind those half-moon spectacles…

## Sherbet lemons 

> ‘Would you care for a sherbet lemon?’ 
> ‘A what?’ 
> ‘A sherbet lemon. They’re a kind of Muggle sweet I’m rather fond of.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

As the old saying goes, a little of what you fancy does you good. Dumbledore definitely had a sweet tooth and he could never help indulging in a few of his favourite sugary treats. Many of us can absolutely relate to that feeling.

‘Sherbet lemon’ and ‘Acid Pops’ are used as passwords to Dumbledore’s office, and his preferred jam flavour could be used as a question to check his identity – it’s raspberry, just in case you want to know. Unfortunately, he had more mixed enjoyment when it came to Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans. If only toffee and earwax weren’t so close in colouring.

## Singing

> ‘Ah, music,’ he said, wiping his eyes. ‘A magic beyond all we do here!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

The Hogwarts school song is an ode to unimaginable chaos – everyone picks their own tune and belts it out at the top of their lungs. Nobody loved a round of ‘Hoggy Warty Hogwarts’ as much as the headmaster (well, except for maybe Fred and George) but the rest of the staff never seemed too keen on the mayhem, as indicated by their ‘rather fixed’ smiles. Their loss, we say. Dumbledore showed that just because you grow old, doesn’t mean you have to grow up.

## Fawkes

> ‘It’s a shame you had to see him on a Burning Day,’ said Dumbledore, seating himself behind his desk. ‘He’s really very handsome most of the time: wonderful red and gold plumage. Fascinating creatures, phoenixes.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

Fawkes had been Dumbledore’s loyal companion for goodness knows how long. Though his owner must have seen him through countless regenerations, Fawkes never failed to amaze him. And could you blame him? The phoenix had many practical properties (which did come in incredibly handy throughout the stories), but the bond between Fawkes and Dumbledore was first and foremost that of friendship. Fawkes’s lament upon his master’s death told us how strong that bond was.

## Thick, woollen socks 

> ‘One can never have enough socks,’ said Dumbledore. ‘Another Christmas has come and gone and I didn’t get a single pair. People will insist on giving me books.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

When Dumbledore looked into the Mirror of Erised, he claimed to see himself holding a pair of lovely woolly socks. Granted, he may not have been completely honest, yet he did have a point.

As children, we might have groaned when we received them as gifts, but a nice pair of socks should never be taken for granted – in fact, we deeply appreciate them when we grow up and have to buy our own! And if you’re still not convinced, just ask fellow sock enthusiast Dobby how he feels about them. Socks are not to be sniffed at. Especially if they’ve been worn a few times in a row.

## Silly words 

> ‘Before we begin our banquet, I would like to say a few words. And here they are: Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

For those who knew him best, Dumbledore’s playfulness and surreal sense of humour were what truly made him special. In a world where words literally have the power to heal, harm and even kill, it was delightful to hear them used just to make people smile.

Roald Dahl once wrote, ‘A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men,’ and there are few men wiser than Dumbledore. 

## The Invisibility Cloak 

> ‘Ah – your father happened to leave it in my possession and I thought you might like it.’ Dumbledore’s eyes twinkled. 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

The Invisibility Cloak held different meanings throughout Dumbledore’s life. As we discovered, the Deathly Hallows were a youthful obsession of Dumbledore’s, even if he only ever desired the cloak to ‘complete the trio’ once upon a time. 

After many years however, Dumbledore learnt the cloak’s real value – to protect loved ones from harm. In the cloak and in Harry himself, Dumbledore saw the enduring power and hidden wisdom of the selfless and the humble. It took a lifetime to fully appreciate and gave Dumbledore hope for the future of his kind.

## Knitting patterns

> ‘I was merely reading the Muggle magazines,’ said Dumbledore. ‘I do love knitting patterns.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*
 
Because why not?

The worst Draco Malfoy burns of all time

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Draco Malfoy was a total nightmare at Hogwarts: he was awful to Muggle-borns, mean about people less well-off than his unattainably rich family and annoyed Harry every chance he got. Like that time he organised those ‘Potter Stinks’ badges. Slow clap, Malfoy.

He didn’t stop there. Remember some of these most shocking cheap shots? 

> ‘Honestly, if you were any slower, you’d be going backwards.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

Funnily enough, this zinger to Goyle was actually Harry-as-Goyle, thanks to some handy Polyjuice Potion during *Chamber of Secrets*. It’s a particularly hilarious moment because while Draco does seem a little bit perturbed that Goyle has forgotten all about the wizarding prison Azkaban, it is actually kind of plausible that he would.

> ‘Longbottom, if brains were gold you’d be poorer than Weasley, and that’s saying something.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

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Neville with his Mimbulus Mimbletonia in a Herbology class

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It cut deeply whenever anyone was cruel to Neville Longbottom. Severus Snape, we’re looking at you. Your doe Patronus can’t get you out of this one.

In one fell swoop, Draco manages to prey upon both Neville and Ron’s deepest insecurities: their lack of intelligence, and lack of funds. Draco, this was a total low blow.

> ‘Well, no one really knows until they get there, do they, but I know I’ll be in Slytherin, all our family have been – imagine being in Hufflepuff, I think I’d leave, wouldn’t you?’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*
 
Many would concur that Hufflepuff is actually an excellent house, and we don’t appreciate Draco’s shade. Like being placed in the same house as Cedric Diggory could ever be a bad thing, honestly.

> ‘Yes, exactly. I heard he’s a sort of savage – lives in a hut in the school grounds and every now and then he gets drunk, tries to do magic and ends up setting fire to his bed.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* 

Oh, boy. The Draco burns really do come thick and fast in *Philosopher’s Stone*. Draco’s ability to concisely distill someone into a stereotype – in this case, Hagrid – without taking into consideration their nuances or good qualities is despicable, and we are broken-hearted. Team Hagrid forever.

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Harry teaching a lesson on the Forbidden Forest from the Prisoner of Azakaban 

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> ‘You know how I think they choose people for the Gryffindor team? […] It’s people they feel sorry for. See, there’s Potter, who’s got no parents, then there’s the Weasleys, who’ve got no money – you should be on the team, Longbottom, you’ve got no brains.’  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone*

Some more tactless savagery here, this time manageing to insult Harry, the Weasley twins and Neville Longbottom in the space of one breath. Do you think he’s trying to set some sort of weird world record of being the absolute worst?

> ‘Ah, look, boys, it’s the champion,’ he said to Crabbe and Goyle, the moment he got within earshot of Harry. ‘Got your autograph books? Better get a signature now, because I doubt he’s going to be around much longer… half the Triwizard champions have died… how long d’you reckon you’re going to last, Potter? Ten minutes into the first task’s my bet.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

Sometimes Draco Malfoy’s burns are so clearly inspired by jealousy, you almost feel a little sorry for the guy. However, joking about classmates dying is definitely not good form. 

> ‘Look at this!’ said Malfoy in ecstasy, holding up Ron’s robes and showing Crabbe and Goyle. ‘Weasley, you weren’t thinking about wearing these, were you? I mean – they were very fashionable in about 1890…’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

Draco was a massive git to Ron at the best of times, but don’t kick a guy when he’s down – not to mention a guy wearing ancient dress robes that looked like they were made at the dawn of time. 

We, for one, loved Ron’s vintage look – always.

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Ron and Harry looking at their dress robes from the Goblet of Fire

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All the times Ron and Hermione should have snogged

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These best friends balance out each other’s strengths and weaknesses, care for each other deeply and would defend the other to the death. But let’s face it – both were useless at making the first move…

They were each as stubborn as the other, for a start, so their first kiss took seven years to happen. Ron refused to swallow his pride and just ’fess up, adopting affectionate displays with girls he wasn’t even that crazy about instead of his real crush.

Hermione doesn’t get off the hook either. Just to prove how maddening this couple were, we’ve compiled the opportunities we believe were just perfect for a grand gesture…

## When Ron defended Hermione’s honour

One of the earliest signals that Ron would do anything for Hermione came when he defended her against Draco Malfoy.

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When Malfoy used the offensive term ‘Mudblood’ against Hermione, Ron fought back with a spell to make him pay – which unfortunately, thanks to Ron’s broken wand, backfired and left him spewing slugs.

Yeah, so maybe Hermione shouldn’t have kissed Ron while he was vomiting slimy creatures, but it was *sort* of romantic? 

## When Ron offered to help Hermione with work

Another opportunity missed was when the notoriously work-shy Weasley offered to help Hermione with Buckbeak’s appeal following a huge fight over Crookshanks ‘eating’ Ron’s pet rat Scabbers.

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Ron was clearly going all out to make it up to Hermione and there was plenty of valuable private library time for a sneaky kiss – instead, they made up with a hug. Boo.

## At the Yule Ball, obviously 

Ron made error after error when the fourth years were forced to choose a date for the Yule Ball. Firstly, moaning about ‘ending up with a pair of trolls’ (c’mon Ron, not cool) and secondly, asking her out as a last resort when he remembered she was one of those ‘girl’ creatures.

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Viktor Krum and Hermione Dancing at the Yule Ball

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After Hermione attended the ball with Viktor Krum, the two had a blazing row at the end of the party, with Hermione obviously taking Ron to task for not asking her out in the first place. This was the perfect moment for Ron to passionately take Hermione in his arms and reveal his true feelings at last! But no, he just went off and sulked.

## When Hermione offered to finish Ron and Harry’s essays

We all know that one of Hermione’s pet peeves (not *that* Peeves) was Ron and Harry getting behind on their homework, so her offering to finish Ron’s essay for Professor Sinistra after he received an annoying letter from Percy was a big deal.

Ron was very grateful, maybe grateful enough to lean in and have a... oh. Nope. 

## When Ron kind of admitted his feelings for Hermione but didn’t properly because that was just SO Ron

Ah, *Half-Blood Prince* – when the tension just became too much. Hermione was going to ask Ron as her date to Professor Slughorn’s party, but even this descended into a row.

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When Hermione asked if he would rather her ‘get off’ with his arch enemy Cormac McLaggen, Ron replied that he wouldn’t – which was the closest he’d ever got to admitting his feelings. RON, YOU WERE SO CLOSE.

## When Ron woke up after being poisoned 

Ron came close to death when he was accidentally poisoned in Slughorn’s office, but was saved by Harry and a bezoar.

While resting up in the hospital wing, he almost definitely confessed his love for Hermione by uttering her name in his sleep. This was clearly a beautiful moment between the would-be couple, and could’ve been a magical moment if only Ron hadn’t been unconscious. Honestly, Ron.

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

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## When Ron returned to the middle of nowhere 

In *Deathly Hallows*, the pair had quite a few telling little moments of affection (such as Hermione washing Ron’s underpants! Swoon!) so it was a huge disappointment when, after so much progress, Ron devastated Hermione by abandoning her and Harry during their hunt for Horcruxes.

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Ron holding up the destroyed locket Horcrux.

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When he returned, his rousing speech about destroying a Horcrux could’ve been a beautiful reunion, but instead Hermione punched him.

It’s a miracle these two *ever* puckered up, really.

The mysterious life and death of Ariana Dumbledore

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Learn about the tragic life of Ariana Dumbledore, sister to Albus and Aberforth, and discover how Gellert Grindelwald was involved in her death.

The Life and Death of Ariana Dumbledore | Wizarding World

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We have witnessed many acts of evil, mostly at the hands of the Death Eaters and their supporters. But it is striking, given the powerful potential of Dark magic, that the perpetrators of one of the very worst acts of evil seen in wizarding history were a group of ordinary Muggle boys.

The victim of this act was a six-year-old girl, Ariana Dumbledore, the younger sister of brilliant future Hogwarts headmaster Albus and future Hog’s Head barman Aberforth.

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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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> ‘When my sister was six years old, she was attacked, set upon, by three Muggle boys. They’d seen her doing magic, spying through the back garden hedge: she was a kid, she couldn’t control it, no witch or wizard can at that age. What they saw scared them, I expect. They forced their way through the hedge, and when she couldn’t show them the trick, they got a bit carried away trying to stop the little freak doing it.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

The brutal attack on young Ariana left her scarred and damaged, mentally unstable and afraid to perform magic. Her powers ‘turned inwards’, which was extremely dangerous. Aberforth described her as mostly ‘sweet, and scared, and harmless’, but when she was upset or angry, magic would explode out of her and she would become ‘strange and dangerous’.

The ripple effect of poor Ariana’s attack spread through every corner of the family. Her father, Percival Dumbledore, went after the Muggle boys and was sent to [Azkaban](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/azkaban) for assaulting them. Never revealing why he did it, Percival feared that if the Ministry knew that Ariana had been sent mad by what happened she would spend the rest of her life in St Mungo’s Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries.

Following Percival’s imprisonment, his wife Kendra Dumbledore moved the family from Mould-On-The-Wold, where the attack took place, to Godric’s Hollow, where she kept her daughter largely a secret and would only allow her outside at the dead of night.

In Rita Skeeter’s biography, *The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore*, she suggested that it was Kendra’s shame at having produced a [Squib](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/everything-you-need-to-know-about-squibs) – a witch or wizard with no magical ability – which prompted her to keep her daughter out of the public glare. She claims that when Albus and Aberforth were asked why their sister wasn’t at Hogwarts, they had been taught by their mother to say, ‘My sister is too frail for school.’

Of course it wasn’t a lack of magical ability but rather the existence of a good deal of uncontrollable magic that was at the root of Ariana’s incarceration. Tragically, soon after Albus graduated from school and just before he was about to embark on an around-the-world trip with his friend Elphias Doge, his mother Kendra died as a result of one of Ariana’s explosions of magic.

> ‘Then, when she was fourteen ... see, I wasn’t there,’ said Aberforth. ‘If I’d been there, I could have calmed her down. She had one of her rages, and my mother wasn’t as young as she was, and ... it was an accident. Ariana couldn’t control it. But my mother was killed.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

Albus cancelled his trip and returned home to look after Ariana, insisting that his younger brother Aberforth continue his studies at Hogwarts. But the teenage Albus, who had been planning his travels and his brilliant career, was resentful of being tied to a house in Godric’s Hollow and a sister who needed constant care. 

> ‘I resented it, Harry.’ 
> Dumbledore stated it baldly, coldly. He was looking, now, over the top of Harry’s head, into the distance. 
> ‘I was gifted, I was brilliant. I wanted to escape. I wanted to shine. I wanted glory. 
> ‘Do not misunderstand me,’ he said, and pain crossed the face so that he looked ancient again. ‘I loved them. I loved my parents, I loved my brother and my sister, but I was selfish, Harry, more selfish than you, who are a remarkably selfless person, could possibly imagine. 
> ‘So that, when my mother died, and I was left the responsibility of a damaged sister and a wayward brother, I returned to my village in anger and bitterness. Trapped and wasted, I thought! And then, of course, he came …’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

‘He’ is, of course, Gellert Grindelwald, the brilliant wizard who might have earned the title of the most evil wizard of the last hundred years if Voldemort hadn’t pipped him to the post a generation later.

Gellert befriended a 17-year-old Albus when he came to stay with his great-aunt Bathilda Bagshot during the summer after Kendra’s death. The pair become inseparable as they shared ideas for ‘a new wizarding order’ and formed a shared obsession with Hallows. But Aberforth felt [Albus’s friendship with Grindelwald](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/grindelwald-and-dumbledores-history-a-deep-dive) had left Ariana neglected. He challenged them both and an argument turned into a fight with devastating consequences. 

> ‘…I pulled out my wand, and he pulled out his, and I had the Cruciatus Curse used on me by my brother’s best friend – and Albus was trying to stop him, and then all three of us were duelling, and the flashing lights and the bangs set her off, she couldn’t stand it –’ 
> The colour was draining from Aberforth’s face as though he had suffered a mortal wound. 
> ‘– and I think she wanted to help, but she didn’t really know what she was doing, and I don’t know which of us did it, it could have been any of us – and she was dead.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

Quite who cast the spell that killed Ariana was unclear, although when Harry met Albus Dumbledore in King’s Cross after he was nearly killed during the [Battle of Hogwarts](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/battle-of-hogwarts-timeline), the old headmaster strongly hinted that it was Grindelwald who shot the mortal curse. 

> ‘Grindelwald lost control. That which I had always sensed in him, though I pretended not to, now sprang into terrible being. And Ariana ... after all my mother’s care and caution ... lay dead upon the floor.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

It was during a ‘coffin-side brawl’ at Ariana’s funeral that the Hogwarts headmaster’s nose was broken by his furious brother, Aberforth. The siblings would later reconcile but feelings of blame and their separate grief appeared to have never truly dissipated. 

Albus’s decision to go after Grindelwald to stop his atrocities years later was likely to have been fuelled in part by Ariana’s death. Recognising how his judgement had been obscured by his obsession with Hallows informed his decision to turn down the post of [Minister for Magic](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/ministers-for-magic). 

The Hogwarts headmaster made one last mistake as a result of the feelings of shame and guilt surrounding Ariana’s death: he put on the cursed ring containing the Resurrection Stone which Voldemort had turned into a Horcrux. A misguided act, but an understandable one too.

> ‘I put it on, and for a second I imagined that I was about to see Ariana, and my mother, and my father, and to tell them how very, very sorry I was…’ 
> *[Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows](https://www.wizardingworld.com/discover/books/harry-potter-and-the-deathly-hallows)*

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