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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

All about... Minerva Mcgonagall

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Minerve Mcgonagall Infographic Feature Image

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[Mobile version](https://images.contentful.com/bxd3o8b291gf/3umQ5spi8gUUkGOeyCsAoG/0d1b03bb00f957d640fda42c6671d54b/Minerva_McGonagall_Infographic_Mobile.jpg)

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Minerva McGonagall infographic

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[Text version](/about/minerva-mcgonagall-infographic-text-version)

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

Hogwarts’ haute couture: The greatest fashion moments of the Harry Potter films

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Triwizard Carousel 

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

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Confusion about what to wear when dressing as Muggles can lead to some [very strange combinations](/writing-by-jk-rowling/clothing), as seen at the Quidditch World Cup where confused outfits included a kilt paired with a poncho and a tweed suit matched with ‘thigh-length galoshes’.

But the unique wizarding take on style has led to some of the most beautiful, daring and interesting costumes to appear on the big screen.

So, perfect your ’do with liberal amounts of Sleekeazy’s Hair Potion and take your seats on the front row to remember the best moments of Hogwarts high fashion from the Harry Potter films.

## Hermione’s Yule Ball dress

Perhaps the most iconic of the non-uniform looks in the movies, Hermione Granger’s Yule Ball dress made us all curse our prom choices. 

While in *Goblet of Fire* Hermione wore ‘robes made of a floaty, periwinkle-blue material’, big-screen Miss Granger wore a stunning pink tiered ombre gown for her date with Viktor Krum.

The dress, designed by Jany Temime, was the perfect frock to signal Hermione’s Cinderella moment – and make Ron insanely jealous, of course.

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An illusration of Hermione in her Yule Ball dress 

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## Ron’s Yule Ball robes

And on the other side of Yule Ball fashion, we have poor Won-Won’s outfit.

After receiving his hand-me-down dress robes from Mrs Weasley, Ron mistakenly thought the frilly get-up was for Ginny, who immediately called them ‘ghastly’. And we have to agree with her.

The ‘lace and dodgy little collar’ were made worse by Ron’s review of his Yule Ball attire: ‘I look like my great aunt Tessie. I smell like my great aunt Tessie.’ Still, better to be on the worst-dressed list than not to be remembered at all.

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Illustration of Ron' s dress robes from the Gobelt of Fire 

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## Luna’s Christmas party frock

Luna Lovegood was a tad more avant garde in her fashion choices – necklace made of Butterbeer caps, anyone? But her dress for Slughorn’s Christmas party in *Half-Blood Prince* was less dotty, more daring fashionista.  

Her silver spangled dress, inspired by a Christmas tree, featured three 3D tiers that could have walked off any haute couture runway. 

The film saw Luna wear sparkling star earrings, although we personally preferred her orange radish pair.

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Luna speaking to Sanguine at Slughorn's party 

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## Gilderoy Lockhart in general

Okay, so he stole the stories of others to make himself famous, but you can’t deny that Gilderoy Lockhart had style in *Chamber of Secrets*.

Rocking up to your first class as Defence Against the Dark Arts professor in a cravat and a gold cloak took some confidence, but Lockhart managed to turn his classroom into a fashion show. For his duel demonstration with Professor Snape, Lockhart wore a quilted and crested vest, a tasselled cloak and a single glove.

Well, we would expect nothing less from the five times winner of *Witch Weekly’s* ‘Most Charming Smile’ award.

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## Beauxbatons school uniforms

Never has a uniform looked as glam than those worn by the students of Beauxbatons Academy.

When Fleur Delacour and her classmates made their grand entrance in *Goblet of Fire*, we were taken aback by their beauty and grace, but also by their stunning costumes.

Teaming chic blue silk dresses with matching capelets, shoes and hat, this outfit – again designed by Jany Temime - wouldn’t look out of place on the streets of Paris, never mind in a magical school.

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An illustration of Fleur in school uniform  

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## Mrs Weasley’s knitted jumpers

‘She’s made you a Weasley jumper,’ Ron moaned to Harry in *Philosopher’s Stone* – but we can’t imagine any better gift. When Molly’s famed knitted jumpers made it onto the big screen, it was like a big, warm, nostalgic hug. Ron’s was maroon – it’s always maroon – with a big R knitted on the front. Sure, the Weasley kids may not have been fans, but we can guarantee they’d sell like hotcakes in a vintage store.

## Fleur’s wedding dress

Fleur Delacour was never going to look less than amazing on her wedding day, but her appearance in *Deathly Hallows - Part One* exceeded all expectations.

While the book saw Fleur wearing a ‘simple white dress’ as she married Bill Weasley, the film’s take on her gown was much more lavish.

Fleur’s wedding dress was a floor-length white tulle creation, featuring two black phoenixes forming a heart and a matching headpiece.

Designer Jany said she chose the phoenix design because ‘like love, it is eternal’.

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The chapter that made us fall in love with… Neville Longbottom

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Neville at Hogwarts from the Deathly Hallows 

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Lord Voldemort is killed by his own rebounding spell in a battle against Harry in the great hall from the Deathly Hallows. 

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While Harry was ‘the Boy Who Lived’, Neville could have been called ‘the boy who kept losing his toad’. Nervous, clumsy and seemingly hopeless at many things, Neville struggled to find his strength. But we knew the Sorting Hat placed him in Gryffindor for a reason…


## ‘The Flaw in the Plan’ 

> ‘You show spirit, and bravery, and you come of noble stock. You will make a very valuable Death Eater. We need your kind, Neville Longbottom.’ 
> ‘I’ll join you when hell freezes over,’ said Neville. ‘Dumbledore’s Army!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*


So how did the boy who could hardly stand a cauldron the right way up find the courage to stand up to Voldemort? 

From his first days at Hogwarts, Neville was a target for bullies and mean teachers (we’re looking at you, Snape!). He seemed to be a liability in the classroom, not to mention those perilous situations he and his friends kept finding themselves in. In spite of this, Neville’s unwavering loyalty meant he never shied away from danger. 


> ‘We were all in the DA together,’ said Neville quietly. ‘It was all supposed to be about fighting You-Know-Who, wasn’t it? And this is the first chance we’ve had to do something real – or was that all just a game or something?’ 
> ‘No – of course it wasn’t –’ said Harry impatiently. 
> ‘Then we should come too,’ said Neville simply. ‘We want to help.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*


Neville’s mettle was well and truly tested in clashes at the Department of Mysteries and the Astronomy Tower. But it was at the Battle of Hogwarts when his real moment arrived…

While Harry, Ron and Hermione were hunting Horcruxes in *Deathly Hallows*, Neville led the rebellion at Hogwarts. After rallying the troops, a war-torn Neville threw himself into combat armed with Mandrakes (he knew his Herbology!) and accepted an important task from Harry – ‘kill the snake’.

It looked like the battle was lost. Neville stood alone and unarmed against Lord Voldemort himself. As punishment for his defiance he was forced into wearing the Sorting Hat, which Voldemort set ablaze. But Neville broke free, pulling forth the sword of Godric Gryffindor…

> With a single stroke, Neville sliced off the great snake’s head, which spun high into the air, gleaming in the light flooding from the Entrance Hall, and Voldemort’s mouth was open in a scream of fury that nobody could hear. 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

## Why it matters 

Neville’s destruction of the final Horcrux saved the day, but what is really fascinating is the journey that brought him there. 

> He passed a round-faced boy who was saying, ‘Gran, I’ve lost my toad again.’ 
> ‘Oh, Neville,’ he heard the old woman sigh. 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

Between his botched potions and runaway toad Trevor, we always felt a bit sorry for Neville. We didn’t know much about him except that he came from a proud wizarding family and his grandmother Augusta raised him to uphold that honour. However, Neville’s shortcomings masked a tragedy that, for many years, he kept to himself.

> ‘– poor devils,’ growled Moody. ‘Better dead than what happened to them…’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*


When Neville was a baby, his parents Frank and Alice Longbottom were tortured to insanity with the Cruciatus Curse. Though he dutifully visited them in hospital, the couple appeared to be husks of their former selves, handing Neville empty sweet wrappers. We see this play out in the heartbreaking chapter ‘Christmas on the Closed Ward’.

> ‘Neville, put that wrapper in the bin, she must have given you enough of them to paper your bedroom by now.’ 
> But as they left, Harry was sure he saw Neville slip the sweet wrapper into his pocket. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

To see a loved one lost in this manner is not something many can relate to. We might ask why Neville didn’t talk to his friends but, like holding on to a seemingly worthless sweet wrapper, it’s complicated.

## ‘A true Gryffindor’

> In nobody was this improvement more pronounced than in Neville. The news of his parents’ attackers’ escape had wrought a strange and even slightly alarming change in him. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

How did the nervous lad with the love of plants grow up to face the Dark Lord? Simple – he never gave up. 

Neville didn’t seek sympathy or wallow in despair. Instead he took his pain and channelled it into his training. Spurred by news of the Death Eaters’ escape, he strove to avenge his parents and prevent more innocents from suffering their dreadful fate. The Sorting Hat was right – deep down, Neville Longbottom had the heart of a lion.

Neville’s story is an inspiration to us all. It doesn’t matter how many cauldrons you’ve melted; with hard work and courage, you can still be a hero. 

*Pottermore looks back at the moments that made our favourite characters so memorable. Read about the chapter that made us fall in love with... [Ginny Weasley.](/feature/chapter-that-made-us-fall-in-love-with-ginny-weasley "The chapter that made us fall in love with Ginny Weasley")*

Slytherins that broke the mould 

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Snape headshot from the Order of the Pheonix 

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We hate to go against Hagrid, who professed that there was ‘not a single witch or wizard who went bad who wasn’t in Slytherin’, but he was kind of wrong. Sorry, Hagrid. 

Here are six Slytherin specimens who we’d argue actually were pretty wonderful. Okay, we wouldn’t go ten-pin bowling with Snape or anything, but you can’t deny that there wasn’t extraordinary talent and goodness in their hearts. 


## Regulus Black

> To the Dark Lord
> 
> I know I will be dead long before you read this but I want you to know that it was I who discovered your secret. I have stolen the real Horcrux and intend to destroy it as soon as I can. I face death in the hope that when you meet your match, you will be mortal once more.
> 
> R.A.B. 
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

The famous ‘R.A.B’ who pipped Harry and Dumbledore to one of Voldemort’s Horcruxes turned out to be the brother of Harry’s godfather Sirius Black: Regulus Arcturus Black.

Regulus was a Death Eater who had second thoughts all too late. Sirius’s memories of his brother seemed to be neither fond nor positive, yet Harry discovered that Regulus died in an act of boundless bravery. He sacrificed himself to steal one of Voldemort’s Horcruxes, and replaced Slytherin’s locket with a fake.

It’s one thing trying to be good and noble your whole life, but it’s a whole other thing to turn over a new leaf when Lord Voldemort is your master. Yes, Regulus volunteered Kreacher to Voldemort, but the house-elf’s ordeal seemed to have been a tipping point for Regulus. He defected and was clearly a gifted wizard (Voldemort’s defences were not easily broken). For that, we salute Regulus.

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## Severus Snape 

In the beginning, Severus appeared to fit the blueprint of a stereotypical Slytherin. With every flick of his greasy dark hair and every snide remark aimed at Harry, Ron or Hermione you could have been forgiven for thinking Snape was just mean.

And yes he was! But Severus was also trying to do good throughout Harry’s years at Hogwarts. He knew Harry’s mother Lily from childhood and loved her from then until his death. 

But Severus wasn’t just a great wizard for his enormous sacrifices; he was also a perfectionist in Potions and an exceptionally talented Legilimens. He was just a bit grumpy, that’s all. 

## Merlin 

The Sorting Hat never said that Slytherins were a big bunch of baddies – that merely they were cunning and determined to succeed. Just take a look at one of the most famous and most respected wizards of all time, Merlin. Merlin, people! Need we say more?

## Horace Slughorn  

Horace was tricky to work out in the beginning. Potions master; Slytherin; bit of a social climber; kind of told Voldemort about Horcruxes, hmm. Bit of a wobbly start, in all honesty. 

Yet Slughorn did show flashes of brilliance, such as for his turn at the Battle of Hogwarts, and offering himself as an excellent drinking partner for Hagrid after Aragog’s funeral – both were equally commendable actions, even though he was clearly after that Acromantula venom for a little extra spending money.

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Professor Slughorn looks worried at the prospect of being asked about Tom Riddle

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## Andromeda Tonks 
Sirius’s ‘favourite cousin’ and Nymphadora Tonks’s flamboyantly-named mother didn’t just stick out from the Slytherins, but also from her own family – the ‘Noble and Most Ancient House of Black.’ 

Her sisters, Narcissa Malfoy and Bellatrix Lestrange, married pure-bloods but Andromeda married Muggle-born Ted Tonks, thus earning her a burn mark on the Black family tapestry. Standing up for what you believe in takes a lot of doing; and while we wish we’d seen more of Andromeda in the books, her daughter was a credit to her and Ted.     

## Honorary mention: Isolt Sayre 

Although Isolt was never sorted into Slytherin, she was a descendant of Salazar Slytherin, which is practically a one-way ticket to wearing emerald. Had she ever got her wish to attend Hogwarts, it would have been a close-run race between her Slytherin blood ties and her childhood wish to be sorted into Ravenclaw. 

Just as well she created her own school then: the North American wizarding school, [Ilvermorny.](/writing-by-jk-rowling/ilvermorny) Despite being brought up by the murderous Gormlaith Gaunt, Isolt did not grow up to desire a pure-blood world or to despise Muggles and No-Majs. In fact, she married one, breaking the purity of the Slytherin bloodline once and for all. If only Tom Riddle Jr knew.

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Why Neville Longbottom’s story always deserved a happy ending

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Neville defies Lord Voldemort and holds the sword of Gryffindor in the aftermath of the Battle at Hogwarts.

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At first, Neville Longbottom provided the comic relief in tricky situations, and spent the majority of his earlier years at Hogwarts getting into all sorts of mishaps. 

Sometimes even Harry, Ron and Hermione didn’t take him seriously. But as the books rolled on, it became clear that Neville had endured more tragedy than any of his friends knew about for a long time. 

By the end of *Deathly Hallows*, Neville had forged strong friendships, was leading Dumbledore’s Army and was playing an integral role in defeating Voldemort. After all, as Professor Trelawney’s prophecy about the one ‘born as the seventh month dies’ could’ve just as easily meant him as it did Harry, he could have been seen as the ‘other’ Chosen One. 

We now know that Neville ended up marrying Hannah Abbott and became Herbology Professor at Hogwarts. Plus he and his wife lived above the Leaky Cauldron. Neville finally got his happy ending – and here’s why he deserved it more than anybody else.

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Harry and Neville in the Room of Requirement from the Order of the Phoenix  

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## He fought for what was right

In *Philosopher’s Stone*, some may have wondered (certainly Neville did himself) why he was sorted into Gryffindor. That is, until he took a stand – even if it wasn’t against Voldemort just yet. 

> ‘Don’t you call me an idiot!’ said Neville. ‘I don’t think you should be breaking any more rules! And you were the one who told me to stand up to people!’ 
> ‘Yes, but not to us,’ said Ron in exasperation. ‘Neville, you don’t know what you’re doing.’ 
> He took a step forward and Neville dropped Trevor the toad, who leapt out of sight. 
> ‘Go on then, try and hit me!’ said Neville, raising his fists. ‘I’m ready!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone*

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Neville falls victim to Hermione's Petrificus Totalus spell

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## He suffered more than any young man should

As the lead protagonist of the series, we knew that Harry was going to have some obstacles to overcome and some burdens to bear. But on the sidelines was Neville, another character with a tragic past that eerily mirrored Harry’s. 

While Harry barely remembered his parents, Neville’s parents barely seemed to know him, having been tortured to insanity by Bellatrix Lestrange and a few other despicable Death Eaters in the days of the First Wizarding War. It must have been so painful to visit his mother and father at St Mungo’s. 

> As Harry took off his glasses and climbed into his four-poster, he imagined how it must feel to have parents still living, but unable to recognise you. He often got sympathy from strangers for being an orphan, but as he listened to Neville’s snores, he thought that Neville deserved it more than he did. 
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

## He would rather experience pain himself than inflict it on others

When Voldemort’s Death Eaters gained control of Hogwarts, Neville stayed at the school. Not because he was afraid to run away, but because he wanted to stay and take a stand. When Harry reunited with him, Neville appeared as a bruised and battered war hero, about to go in for more action.

> ‘Amycus, the bloke, he teaches what used to be Defence Against the Dark Arts, except now it’s just the Dark Arts. We’re supposed to practise the Cruciatus Curse on people who’ve earned detentions –’ 
> ‘What?’ 
> Harry, Ron and Hermione’s united voices echoed up and down the passage. 
> ‘Yeah,’ said Neville. ‘That’s how I got this one,’ he pointed at a particularly deep gash in his cheek, ‘I refused to do it.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

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## He didn’t keep silent

Neville wasn’t exactly known for his pithy one-liners. That was, until he had a reason to get sassy. 

> ‘Alecto, Amycus’s sister, teaches Muggle Studies, which is compulsory for everyone. We’ve all got to listen to her explain how Muggles are like animals, stupid and dirty, and how they drove wizards into hiding by being vicious towards them, and how the natural order is being re-established. I got this one,’ he indicated another slash to his face, ‘for asking her how much Muggle blood she and her brother have got.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

## He was always ready to help

When Neville joined Dumbledore’s Army, he took that oath seriously. For him, it wasn’t just about hanging out with his friends and learning a few new spells. It was about training to fight back. It was about knowing when to put your life on the line. 

> ‘We were all in the DA together,’ said Neville quietly. ‘It was all supposed to be about fighting You-Know-Who, wasn’t it? And this is the first chance we’ve had to do something real – or was that all just a game or something?’ 
> ‘No – of course it wasn’t –’ said Harry impatiently. 
> ‘Then we should come too,’ said Neville simply. ‘We want to help.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

## He wouldn’t be broken

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Neville with his Mimbulus Mimbletonia in a Herbology class

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Even when attacked by Bellatrix Lestrange – the woman who had already affected his family so much – Neville didn’t break. He had seen first-hand what torture with the Cruciatus curse could do to people, and he should have feared it more than most… But he didn’t let fear control him. 

> ‘No, let’s see how long Longbottom lasts before he cracks like his parents... unless Potter wants to give us the prophecy.’ 
> ‘DON’D GIB ID DO DEM!’ roared Neville, who seemed beside himself, kicking and writhing as Bellatrix drew nearer to him and his captor, her wand raised. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

## He worked hard. Really hard

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Harry and Dumbledore's Army in the Room of Requirement 

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While Hermione was regarded as the most talented witch of her age, and defensive spells seemed to come naturally to Harry (couldn’t be anything to do with the constant threat of the Dark Lord approaching, could it?), Neville had to work hard for his successes – which just made his achievements even more impressive. 

> [He] worked relentlessly on every new jinx and counter-curse Harry taught them, his plump face screwed up in concentration, apparently indifferent to injuries or accidents, working harder than anyone else in the room. 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

## Neville’s brand of bravery is one we want to see more of

Neville was a true Gryffindor and the best sort of human being. His brand of bravery wasn’t about running in with wands blazing – it was about picking your battles. It was about knowing what was important and being willing to fight for that. Especially against one certain adversary…

> ‘I’ll join you when hell freezes over,’ said Neville. ‘Dumbledore’s Army!’ he shouted, and there was an answering cheer from the crowd, whom Voldemort’s silencing charms seemed unable to hold. 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

Priori Incantatem: A history of notable Slytherin wands

PMARCHIVE-Priori Incantatem: A history of notable Slytherin wands

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Harry discovers something awful about Lord Voldemort when their wands connect at the end of *Goblet of Fire*; all of Voldemort’s regurgitated, old spells were murders. The spell is known as *Priori Incantatem*, where a wand forces another wand to reveal the spells of its past.

Lord Voldemort’s wand history was simple; he was out there to kill as many as possible, with seemingly no remorse. 

But if we look at the spell history of some other notable wizards and witches’ wands, we see some interesting insights into their characters, and in some cases, the wands themselves.

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What if we take four huge names of Slytherin house, a house known for being cunning and deceiving, and see what their wand histories tell us about them? Because unlike Voldemort, some other members of Slytherin house are a lot more complicated. 

## Severus Snape 

Notable Spells: 

*Expelliarmus*: In Duelling Club in *Chamber of Secrets* 
*Avada Kedavra*: Against Albus Dumbledore in *Half-Blood Prince* 
*Sectumsempra*: A curse of his own making, that accidentally hits George Weasley in *Deathly Hallows* 
*The Patronus Charm*: Used to cast a Patronus to help Harry in *Deathly Hallows*

Severus Snape was a complicated wizard, as we well know. Half the time when Harry, Ron and Hermione found themselves trying to figure out whether or not Snape was doing Dark deeds, he was actually doing the exact opposite. In fact, in one of the first-ever instances we saw Snape using magic in *Philosopher’s Stone*, we thought he was performing a jinx when he was actually performing a counter-jinx.

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Snape pushes Harry and Ron's heads down in the Goblet of Fire.

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Just like Snape’s character, his use of magic across the seven books was rather contradictory. In *Chamber of Secrets*, it was Snape who (inadvertently) taught Harry the spell that he would end up using in the defeat of Lord Voldemort: Expelliarmus. 

> Harry reached his wand just in time. Lockhart had barely raised his, when Harry bellowed, ‘Expelliarmus!’ 
> Lockhart was blasted backwards, falling over his trunk. His wand flew high into the air; Ron caught it, and flung it out of the open window. 
> ‘Shouldn’t have let Professor Snape teach us that one,’ said Harry furiously, kicking Lockhart’s trunk aside. 
> Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets 

As the years at Hogwarts unfolded, we learnt more about Snape’s double life. After all, this was the man who had used both the Killing Curse on Albus Dumbledore and the Patronus Charm that guided Harry through a hopeless moment in the space of a year. Yes, Snape may have operated through cruel remarks and unsavoury deeds, but his wand history often showed great power and nobility. 

## Bellatrix Lestrange 

Notable spells: 

A curse that hit Sirius Black, sending him through the veil to his death in *Order of the Phoenix* 
*Cruciatus Curse* – Used on Neville’s parents to torture them into insanity, learnt in *Goblet of Fire* 
*Cruciatus Curse* – Used on Hermione Granger to torture her into giving her information in Deathly Hallows 

Bellatrix Lestrange was one of the deadliest witches imaginable. In fact, most of the times we came across her, she was casting an Unforgiveable Curse, usually *Crucio*. Not once throughout the stories did this particular Death Eater show any remorse for her actions.

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WB F5 Bellatrix spell HP5-FX-00577r

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When Hermione took Bellatrix’s wand in *Deathly Hallows*, the wand appeared to be so contaminated with evil she described it as being like ‘a bit of her’. Just like her master, Lord Voldemort, we never saw one ounce of goodness in Bellatrix’s spell-casting. Fitting, then, that Bellatrix’s wand was made from walnut, a wood that ‘makes for a truly lethal weapon in the hands of a witch or wizard of no conscience’, according to [Mr Ollivander’s notes](/writing-by-jk-rowling/wand-woods).

## Draco Malfoy 

Notable spells: 

*Serpensortia* – A spell that conjures a huge snake, used against Harry in *Chamber of Secrets* 
*Locomotor Mortis* – Leg-Locker Curse used on Neville Longbottom in *Philosopher’s Stone* 
*Expelliarmus* – Used to disarm Professor Dumbledore with the intent of killing him in *Half-Blood Prince*

Draco Malfoy seemed bad to the bone as far as Harry Potter was concerned. Take a look at some of the spells he cast in his earlier years – so proud of his Slytherin heritage he even knew how to conjure a snake when he was in his second year.

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But, as was a continuous theme with Draco, a lot of his cruelty seemed to float on the surface. For example, he may not have been afraid to perform the occasional curse or hex to assert his authority (such as paralysing Harry with the Full Body-Bind Curse) but when it came to true, unparalleled acts of evil, Draco faltered. 

He may have been brave enough to disarm Dumbledore, but not enough to kill him. In fact, throughout the stories we don’t see Draco perform any Unforgiveable Curses, yet we see Crabbe and Goyle show no regrets in that area. No, Draco’s spell-choices were usually designed to make the victim vulnerable, which may say a lot about Draco’s own vulnerability. 

## Salazar Slytherin

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