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Pub trivia – fun facts you didn't know about wizarding inns

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__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the stories…__

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

Despite what many [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) think, the title of oldest pub in London goes to this well-loved wizarding establishment. Found on Charing Cross Road, the [Leaky Cauldron](/fact-file/locations/the-leaky-cauldron) was built in the 1500s – long before Charing Cross Road was even planned! Its true address is number one, [Diagon Alley](/fact-file/locations/diagon-alley).

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

This wizarding institution wasn’t always a place that where only magical folk congregated. As it was built two centuries before the imposition of the International Statute of Secrecy, it was initially visible to Muggle eyes too. Muggles weren’t made to feel unwelcome or turned away. Having said that, thanks to the *interesting* conversations and even more *interesting* magical pets, many scarpered before finishing their mead.

![LeakyCauldron WB F1 SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron Illust 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5sxx5inySIAWsKA0gcuUEG/ca736eb81e715e092136f42c579a2719/LeakyCauldron_WB_F1_SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron_Illust_080615_Land.jpg)

## Neville Longbottom and Hannah Abbott lived above the Leaky Cauldron

In a turn of events that we find extremely adorable, after leaving [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) not only did [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) continue his passion for magical plants as [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) professor, but he also married [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff), [Hannah Abbott](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hannah-abbott-fact-file). The happy couple decided to make a home for themselves living above the one-and-only Leaky Cauldron.

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

Although we never learnt which one it was, according to *Sites of Historical Sorcery*, one of the wizarding pubs in [Hogsmeade](/fact-file/locations/hogsmeade) was said to have been the headquarters of the 1612 [goblin](/fact-file/creatures/goblin) rebellion. Could it have been the [Hog’s Head Inn](/fact-file/locations/the-hogs-head) which was known for its dubious dealings and schemes? Or perhaps it was the cosiness of the [Three Broomsticks](/fact-file/locations/the-three-broomsticks) that convinced the goblins to make it their base?

![pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2zygTLqXtChkWM7Asbbca3/14624eac244b6e0d0dd667458176dd1a/pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero.jpg)

## The Hog’s Head Inn was run by a Dumbledore

While [Albus Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) ran Hogwarts, just down the road his brother, [Aberforth Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/aberforth-dumbledore-fact-file), ran the Hog’s Head Inn. Crochety and a big fan of goats, he and his brother didn’t always see eye-to-eye. Ultimately, they were both extremely good people and Aberforth even helped the resistance at Hogwarts after Albus’ death – thanks to a secret passage that connected the [Room of Requirement](/fact-file/locations/the-room-of-requirement) to his pub.

## Sybill Trelawney made her infamous prediction at the Hog’s Head Inn

The Hog’s Head Inn was the location of many crucial story moments from the founding of [Dumbledore’s Army](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dumbledores-army) to [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) winning a dragon egg in a game of cards. However, there was one particular moment that changed the course of wizarding history forever. On a gloomy night, Albus Dumbledore went to interview [Sybill Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) for the role of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher. He was thoroughly unimpressed until, among the ramshackle décor and sticky floor, she made her prediction about the boy destined to end [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) and rid the world of his evil!

![pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/YvfQFf3Sc7Y1rQNcmqoKm/7278f0704d0a659047a66375127ed129/pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero.jpg)

## Katie Bell was given the cursed opal necklace at The Three Broomsticks

Run by Madam Rosmerta, the Three Broomsticks was a warm and welcoming establishment in Hogsmeade. Yet Dark Magic still managed to worm its way in there in the form of the cursed opal necklace. Part of a clumsy attempt on Dumbledore’s life, [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) Quidditch team member, [Katie Bell](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/katie-bell), took the necklace from the pub while under the influence of the [Imperius Curse](/fact-file/spells/the-imperius-curse) and narrowly escaped its deadly power.

## It wasn’t just witches and wizards who frequented the Three Broomsticks

Said to be as old as the only all-wizard village in Britain, the Three Broomsticks was a bit of a haven for all sorts of magical beings, such as hags, who couldn’t disguise themselves particularly well in the Muggle world. In fact, Ron and Hermione once thought they spotted an ogre!

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

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Hermione wearing a red dress and smiling at Bill and Fleur's wedding.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## The importance of keeping things in perspective

![HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/qVjLFPXczR2mwGR54M1JK/5ffbc10854b90be415e66d18504a0f56/HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape)

‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery…’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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Despite being known for her exceptional brain power, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) also knew the importance of nurturing the other elements of her personality too. It’s a lesson she learnt in her first year after finding genuine friendship. It is also one that we could do with remembering too.

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3yxtbUPaKL5YRyOXEmcss7/b5f3840e6afd0c2e76548570d0532593/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape)

‘…anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.'

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Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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If you don’t ask you don’t get! As [Ginny](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley) reminds us, if we shy away from a challenge, we’re never going to achieve our dreams. If we find our courage? Well, the world is our oyster.

## Be proud of who you are

![HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/71JqjFqxFPKBLmoFUGKYJD/22d4d28400d268c5d1382d675b5ce1ae/HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape)

‘It’s high time your grandmother learned to be proud of the grandson she’s got, rather than the one she thinks she ought to have...’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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The no-nonsense [McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) was a witch worth listening to! It’s all too easy to get caught up in the comparison trap, trying to think about who you *should* be and feeling inadequate next to others. However, you are brilliant just the way you are. You are one-of-a-kind. If the Head of [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) can see that – so can you.

## There is always hope

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5zrwB81bovDEUXWbMyCWia/26babee3a72e41ff8557681a28703f5a/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape)

‘The things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’

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Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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When times are hard, it can be easy to give up hope and become despondent. Yet this poignant point from the wonderfully eccentric [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) is a reminder that good days are on the horizon – even if we can’t quite see them yet.

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

![WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7uWvZ2RIgkybj8J1lCs5RA/39672ce02de6ff4e27d39381deb3c05f/WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop.jpg)

‘I’m hoping to do some good in the world!’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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No matter who you are, you *can* make a difference. If you channel Hermione’s determination, we’re sure you will go on to do great and brilliant things.

## An excellent reminder

![HP-F5-molly-weasley-harry-potter-web-10744](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1ugOAEKJsmxHxy7rDSEkO8/d6f828346ab08de9e2eb69ed086fdf71/weasley-quiz-title-.jpg)

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

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Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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A sage piece of advice from [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley)! She might have said this to Harry before his [Ministry](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) hearing, but we think this is something that can be applied to many different areas of your life. From making friends to job interviews, things are always easier if you start off on the right foot.

## Do what is right, not what is easy

![WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4L5hkIozTd68acqd3hpP2I/27590dc492caea34621b56bdd472e45b/WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape.jpg)

‘Well, if you two are going to chicken out, fine… I don’t want to break rules, you know. I think threatening Muggle-borns is far worse than brewing up a difficult potion.’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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Hermione was the witch who once declared being expelled to be a fate worse than death. To hear her trying to convince [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) to break the rules was rather shocking. Yet she raises an extremely valuable point. Sometimes you need to push the boundaries to do what is right. Following the rules can only go so far – especially if those rules cause more harm than good. It can be hard to stand up and be counted but we should all try to do so.

## Protect what is important

![WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6PcDR4xjlhQ8xtErVUHYBc/198864f4ef4413d1ed6e50f91411088e/WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape.jpg)

‘I feel that if a single pupil wants to come, then the school ought to remain open for that pupil.’

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Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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This was a brave statement from [Professor Sprout](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) in the wake of [Dumbledore’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) death. [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) was so much more than a school. For many like Harry, it was a sanctuary and place they could call home. A place that should be protected. This is a sentiment we could all take on board. We should all work hard to take care of what, and who, is important to us.

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

‘What do I care how ’e looks? I am good-looking enough for both of us, I theenk! All these scars show is zat my husband is brave!’

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Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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You might think glamorous and goodlooking [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would also be extremely vain. Yet she wasn’t. Filled with self-confidence, she didn’t judge her husband based on his appearance – she knew it was the content of his character that truly mattered. That attitude is one we think everyone should embody.

## Boundaries are good

![mcgonagall-web-header-wand](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6J6heLMpK9Lee0eL8faPnj/18ebb3e1a6694c1ed440bf094b02a127/mcgonagall-web-headrer.jpg)

‘I do not generally permit people to talk when I am talking.’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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Quite right too! Don’t let anybody try to take your voice or diminish you. If someone tries to talk over you, channel your inner McGonagall and lay down the law – they’ll soon learn a valuable lesson.

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

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## January: The determined and dedicated Oliver Wood is your perfect match

![WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7iJHeRIUbca989dspC4c2t/a8eae533de5cb364c2b8ef17aa39c857/WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape.jpg)

When considering your ideal partner, you don’t want someone who is afraid of commitment and isn’t willing to put the work in. You want someone who is going to give the relationship their all. This is why you and [Oliver Wood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/oliver-wood) make a perfect pair. This [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) proved his determination time and time again as [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) Captain. He was always coming up with training techniques and drills to make the team better. Yes, some of his teammates might have complained about the early starts, but it didn’t put Oliver off… and it worked. That’s the type of dedication you admire.

## February: Your soulmate is the creative and eccentric Luna Lovegood

![WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5jiVEF9rz3GdDt6go666da/6431193cd66631881320a9921f2913fe/WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape.jpg)

There is nothing that bores you more than blending into the crowd. From your curious insights to your wacky wardrobe, you march to the beat of your own drum. You are proud to celebrate your uniqueness, and you are looking for a partner that doesn’t shy away from their individuality too. This is why [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood) with her [Spectrespecs](/fact-file/objects/spectrespecs) and radish-like earrings is your ideal match. The two of you would have a joyful relationship that celebrated creativity, eccentricity and a shared belief in the Crumple-Horned Snorkack.

## March: The brilliantly hilarious Ron Weasley is the one for you

![HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/51khMqIDGh7ltBpFgDIet4/4390b7228f2368b128a11304e8a73108/HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape.jpg)

Life’s too short not to have fun. Who wants to be miserable? Yes, serious things happen but you still want to find the joy in life, and you want a partner who can do that too. This is why you and [Ron Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) would make the perfect pair. From his ‘Merlin's most baggy Y-fronts’ exclamations to quippy ‘Oh, of course… I forgot we’ll be hunting down [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) in a mobile library’ comebacks – his quick with would keep you entertained for life.

## April: The elegant and poised Fleur Delacour is your ideal soulmate

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

Graceful, elegant and gliding through life – that’s the ultimate dream. You aren’t interested in awkward situations and embarrassing encounters; you want life to be as serene as possible. As you want this from your partner too, you and [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would make a flawless duo. No matter what situation she faced – from walking into the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) for the first time to rejecting [Yule Ball](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/yule-ball) dates, she was always perfectly poised which is something you appreciate.

## May: The thoroughly good Cedric Diggory is who you’re drawn to

![HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7Gg3rW3wpho401kh28ueXG/2ce6bdeb293a9f962407b31ab38c3c2b/HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape)

You have no time for people that like to play games in relationships. You abhor anyone who has a mean streak. You really can’t stand when people are rude to those around them. This is why [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) is the perfect person for you. Despite being handsome, intelligent and an extremely talented wizard, this [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) was also humble. He was *good*. He helped Harry despite him being his [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) rival and never let being the rising star at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) go to his head. Cedric is a partner you would always feel safe with… and he is perfect for you.

## June: Your soulmate is Lavender Brown who wears her heart on her sleeve

![HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/41iicwNjHTdrMVNZoiTdoC/ddf961f7074d912a9307c0dc9e2716aa/HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape)

As someone who is often described as vivacious and an open book, you have real difficulty bonding with people who are closed off or reserved. You find those who keep their cards close to their chest rather unsettling – which is why [Lavender Brown](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lavender-brown) is your soulmate. Whether she was snogging Ron in front of the whole [Gryffindor common room](/fact-file/locations/the-gryffindor-common-room) or giving him gaudy necklaces as a token of her affection, she was not afraid of her emotions or letting everyone else see them. This type of openness is something you can’t help but be drawn to.

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

![HP WB F4 Neville and his plant crop ](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/66z5lwGFVYTJTiW2dNdKfw/e99e49796545303b7dec644c11004840/NevilleLongbottom_WB_F4_NevilleLongbottomWithPlantPromoShot_Promo_080615_CROP.jpg)

Don’t underestimate [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom). He might have initially been a clumsy underdog, but he soon surpassed that and became a [sword-of-Gryffindor-wielding](/fact-file/objects/the-sword-of-gryffindor) hero. One who was loyal to his friends, his school and loyal to what was right. As someone born in July, this is what you would like to find in a partner. You don’t want a person who could easily be swayed. You want someone who is as committed to you as Neville is to his [Mimbulus mimbletonia](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia), which is why he is the one for you.

## August: The logical and intelligent Hermione Granger is the one for you

![HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5aJclseoYsrr4a0y0XPiQY/be44e1bfabc2a5f7422ed6e87a5df30e/HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape)

As somebody who is known for their sharp mind and love of learning, we think you and the [cleverest witch of her age](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger), who takes the largest books out of the [Hogwarts library](/fact-file/locations/the-hogwarts-library) for ‘light reading’, would get on like a house on fire. Your days would be spent verbally sparring with each other, debating Ancient Rune translations and generally broadening your minds and you wouldn’t want it any other way.

## September: The discerning Draco Malfoy is your wizarding soulmate

![WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4FeDA9gWYlkm3iFXZMUOF5/47927d38da6fcc8d4660a5cd92a7e6d6/WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape.jpg)

There’s nothing wrong with being shrewd or ambitious, these are traits that you rather admire. In fact, you find someone who knows exactly what they want and how to get it extremely attractive. This is why [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) is the one for you. We are in no way saying you are prejudiced or a bully like he was. However, the embodiment of [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) traits, he was not afraid to openly say he liked the finer things in life or believe he deserved them – just like you.

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

![GinnyWeasley WB F6 GinnyAtSlughornsParty Still 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4otWY19HKE4WyOOy4Q0wSu/66177ea78a84f5e28b9fb79b2b961e51/GinnyWeasley_WB_F6_GinnyAtSlughornsParty_Still_080615_Land.jpg)

If there was a witch that knew exactly who she was, it was [Ginny Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley). Having had a rough start at Hogwarts she blossomed into a fierce and phenomenal person – with an excellent talent for the [Bat-Bogey Hex](/fact-file/spells/the-bat-bogey-hex). That self-assuredness is something that you are looking for in a partner. You don’t want somebody who doesn’t take the time to work on being the best version of themselves. You want someone who is confident and powerful – exactly like Ginny.

## November: Harry Potter’s bravery is what makes him your soulmate

![HP-F8-harry-lake-web-header](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3SzHQWDxZAPjea1KYpaIO0/cc24a62a6e35937f165b190cf14df8e6/harry_heaer.png)

[Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) is not afraid to confront the difficult things in life. He doesn’t shy away from a challenge or let fear stop him. He puts himself out there whether that’s soaring through the sky on his [broomstick](/fact-file/objects/broomstick), fighting the forces of evil or summoning up the courage to ask his crush to the Yule Ball. This is something that you strongly relate to. You’re not one to be called timid and you can’t stand cowardice. We’re not saying you’re necessarily an extrovert, but you stand up when it matters and that’s why Harry is your ultimate wizarding soulmate.

## December: The glass half-empty Moaning Myrtle is your perfect match

![HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2HdGuqY9aOgGStQJii0yVY/5013a2d38cecb8e9f536e42f6dbf0036/HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape.jpg)

There is no person that gets on your nerves more than the one who is relentlessly optimistic. You don’t have time from all that chirpiness and being constantly told to look on the bright side. In fact, being stuck with someone like that would be your worst nightmare. You want someone who will always look on the gloomy side – which is why [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle) (emphasis on the *Moaning*) is your perfect match. Despite her crush on Harry Potter, with your maudlin outlook, we’re sure you could win her over and many (un)happy centuries sitting in the [u-bend of a Hogwarts toilet](/fact-file/locations/moaning-myrtles-bathroom) discussing all the reasons why everything is awful.

For beginners, for novices, for Harry Potter superfans going 20 years-strong, dig deep into the wizarding world with our collection of features.

Features - Wizarding World

The magical textbooks crossword

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Best of luck!

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And remember, you can play more wordsearches, crosswords and Number Magic challenges over at our [puzzles hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/potter-puzzles). 

Why you shouldn't be disappointed if your Hogwarts house isn't what you expect

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Harry Potter battled with the [Sorting Hat](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat) over his desperation not to be placed in Slytherin. Years later, his son Albus arrived at Hogwarts with similar preconceptions. Meanwhile, Neville Longbottom was so intimidated by Gryffindor that he nearly became a Hufflepuff. 

All of which is to say: each Hogwarts House comes with a certain reputation, and for some students, those reputations create misgivings. 

But, as we all know, the Sorting Hat is not overly bothered about individual misgivings. And more often than not, it does get these things right – so let’s focus on the positives.  

## Don’t be disappointed if you’re in… Slytherin

If you’ve landed in Slytherin and are concerned about its reputation for turning out bad witches and wizards, take a leaf out of [Scorpius Malfoy’s book](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/how-scorpius-malfoy-proved-everyone-wrong-about-slytherin) and use those qualities of pride and cunning in more positive ways. We are here to tell you, there’s nothing wrong with being ambitious. On the contrary, if you channel those skills into your schoolwork and friendships like Scorpius did, you’ll see real benefits.

Besides, it really doesn’t follow that everyone from Slytherin is evil, or that every non-Slytherin is good. Severus Snape, Regulus Black and Leta Lestrange were all Slytherins, and while they made some (in certain cases, terrible) mistakes, they were also brave. Because being cunning is not intrinsically bad: without it, Snape would never have successfully fooled Voldemort for all those years. It just depends how you apply it.

Anyway: Peter Pettigrew was a Gryffindor, for goodness’ sake.

## Don’t be disappointed if you’re in… Hufflepuff

Hufflepuff’s reputation as being full of “‘duffers’” (thanks, Hagrid) is provably false, but it’s true that some people seem to think its students are less intelligent. Still, if a person thinks being the most accepting House automatically equates to being the least clever house, doesn’t that say more about them than about Hufflepuff?

And Hufflepuffs are very much not duffers. They’re patient and hard-working. They can be Hogwarts Champions, like Cedric Diggory; Aurors, like Tonks; world-saving [Magizoologists like Newt Scamander](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/why-newt-scamander-was-a-true-hufflepuff). Do these sound like the professions of inferior people? No, they don’t. 

Personally, we think a House that prioritises loyalty and kindness sounds like a pretty positive place to be a student.

## Don’t be disappointed if you’re in… Ravenclaw

Given Ravenclaw’s reputation for wit and intelligence, if you’re placed in this House you might be concerned about coming across as self-important. Don’t be, because most Ravenclaws aren’t (with the obvious exception of Gilderoy Lockhart.) 

This is because Ravenclaws know a love of learning isn’t just about academic achievement. Sure, they have some of the cleverest witches and wizards, but they also have some of the most eccentric, creative and entertaining. You certainly wouldn’t define Professor Trelawney, Cho Chang or wandmaker Ollivander by their exam results alone. 

No, you don’t have to be top of every class to be in wise old Ravenclaw. Maybe your wisdom lies in your ability to see the world in a different way – you know, [like Luna Lovegood. ](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/why-luna-lovegood-was-a-true-ravenclaw)

## Don’t be disappointed if you’re in… Gryffindor

Over the years, Gryffindor provided more than its fair share of pop-culture and actual heroes: almost every member of the Order of the Phoenix; Hermione; Ron and all the Weasleys; obviously Harry himself. It’s a lot to live up to. 

Plus, there’s their reputation for being a little... arrogant. Certainly Harry, with his ‘“saving-people-thing’” (Hermione’s description, not ours) had a tendency to jump right in without thinking about the consequences. And yet, you don’t have to be reckless or hot-headed to be a Gryffindor. Hermione wasn’t. Professor McGonagall wasn’t. [Neville Longbottom certainly wasn’t.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/why-neville-longbottom-was-always-a-true-gryffindor) 

You can be brave without needing to be the centre of attention. You can be determined, and also thoughtful. In short: you don’t need to be constantly charging off to save people at the drop of a hat. Courage doesn’t always roar, after all.

## Don’t be disappointed if you’re in… any Hogwarts House!

In Harry’s fifth year, the Sorting Hat reflected on whether Sorting was a good thing:

*“‘I sort you into Houses<br>
Because that is what I'm for,<br>
But this year I'll go further,<br>
Listen closely to my song:<br>
Though condemned I am to split you<br>
Still I worry that it's wrong,<br>
Though I must fulfil my duty<br>
And must quarter every year<br>
Still I wonder whether Sorting<br>
May not bring the end I fear…’”*<br>

The events that followed really proved the Sorting Hat’s point: as once-friendly rivalries gave way to all-out war, preconceptions about each House became more entrenched, and, arguably, left students feeling they had to choose an allegiance – especially Slytherins. These preconceptions were still an issue years later, when [Albus Potter](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/why-albus-potter-was-a-true-slytherin) arrived at Hogwarts and became a Slytherin; the very thing his father had pleaded with the Sorting Hat not to do to him.

And yet, as the Sorting Hat implies, many students are not expressly one thing or the other. Slytherin could have helped Harry on the way to greatness. Hermione might have been in Ravenclaw. Kind-hearted Scorpius Malfoy seemed perfect Hufflepuff material; famous Hufflepuff Cedric Diggory was as brave as any Gryffindor, as was Ravenclaw Luna Lovegood. Even Dumbledore himself displayed Slytherin-levels of cunning when it came to his plans for defeating Voldemort.

The point is, you can be in any House and have the qualities of another. So there’s no need to be disappointed. Each House is great in its own way, but wherever you end up, your Hogwarts colours don’t say anything about your character. 

Besides, not even the [Sorting Hat gets it right every time](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/does-the-sorting-hat-sort-too-early) (two words: Peter Pettigrew.)

[So... fancy getting sorted now?](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat)

Lessons you can learn from a Slytherin

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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

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## Be proud of your abilities

![HPCC-cursed-child-delphi-scorpius-albus-time-turner-broadway-new-york-high-res-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/54esqG5NxjuODq2TZTV16D/194b84bc5c0cc7d7c55428bb48485902/HPCC-cursed-child-delphi-scorpius-albus-time-turner-broadway-new-york-high-res-web-landscape)

Slytherins are known for being proud, and while in some cases (Draco Malfoy, we’re looking at you) this trait came with a hefty dose of overbearing haughtiness, there is, of course, nothing wrong with being proud of yourself. 

After all, knowing you are good at what you do – like Snape, who was such an accomplished Occlumens he was able to double-cross Voldemort himself; or Leta Lestrange, who managed to fool Grindelwald and destroy his powerful skull hookah; or Scorpius Malfoy, who was unafraid to express his love of learning – creates a sense of confidence, which is never a bad thing.

## But remember: sometimes, pride comes before a fall

![HP-F6-half-blood-prince-draco-malfoy-looking-in-mirror-worried-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/58rxwGrxJkLOp6Kd7Hz1l1/d344d6e3ddc9f7397667423eef346d32/HP-F6-half-blood-prince-draco-malfoy-looking-in-mirror-worried-web-landscape)

Yes, we just said confidence is never a bad thing, but there is such a thing as over-confidence. Draco’s a perfect example. For most of his Hogwarts career, the privileges afforded to him as the only son of a wealthy pure-blood family meant he never faced serious consequences. Buying his way on to the Slytherin Quidditch team, pretending to be a Dementor in order to scare Harry, feigning injury just to get Hagrid’s Hippogriff Buckbeak killed – Draco acted without fear of reprisal. This became even more pronounced during Professor Umbridge’s time at Hogwarts, when Draco and his friends were given free rein to express their meanest impulses.

But everything changed in Draco’s sixth year. With the father he wanted so desperately to impress in Azkaban and an impossible task ahead of him, his confidence was finally shaken. What Voldemort asked of Draco was the biggest consequence of all: to kill Dumbledore, and so make up for his father’s failures. No wonder he was crying in Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom. He was finally being tested, and when it came down to it, he couldn’t do what was asked of him. 

The fall of the Malfoys was pretty spectacular, and the result was a chastened Draco who ultimately moved away from his parents’ pure-blood ideology. Which goes to show, you never know what’s round the corner.

## Being cunning can be a very useful skill

![hpcc-harry-albus-bed-original-cast-app-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/01BShJCkrGwgzKwlnlKC4Q/6f4c237cf8f9bdb8b0651a8991095d59/hpcc-harry-albus-bed-original-cast-app-landscape.jpg)

Certain Slytherins used their talent for cunning in particularly devious ways. Voldemort was obviously master of this. Even when he was just plain old Tom Riddle, he fooled enough Hogwarts teachers to become a Prefect, managed to get Hagrid expelled, and charmed Slughorn into telling him about Horcruxes. 

But this talent does not always have to be used with malicious intent, as other Slytherins showed us. For all his ability as an Occlumens, Snape would never have survived as a double agent for as long as he did if he hadn’t also been able to draw on that quality of cunning. And if he hadn’t survived as long as he did, Harry wouldn’t have, either. 

Years later, Harry’s son Albus also demonstrated that being cunning didn’t automatically equal being evil. His decision to turn back time was motivated by a desire to bring Cedric Diggory back. OK, it was misguided and yes, it created havoc, but he didn’t do it for negative reasons. And Albus’s cunning did help him achieve his aims. There aren’t many students who’d use Polyjuice Potion to impersonate Ministry of Magic employees, after all. Although, hang on… maybe that’s not an exclusively Slytherin thing?

## You never know what’s going on in somebody’s life

![HarryAndSirius WB F5 GrimmauldPlaceBlackFamilyTree HP5D-11497](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/66Ms0pYCk02KWwCaY6YWCg/8e63a298773a40a930aa5733499eb908/HarryAndSirius_WB_F5_GrimmauldPlaceBlackFamilyTree_HP5D-11497.jpg)

Much like Sirius’s brother Regulus, who also grew up in a pure-blood obsessed family, Draco Malfoy’s name meant everything to him, and he was desperate to prove himself.

Family dynamics play a big part in any child’s development, and while an unhappy home life is never an excuse to become an arrogant bully, understanding Draco’s background does put his behaviour in context. 

When it comes to Regulus, you could say that if Sirius was strong enough to reject his parents’ ideology, Regulus should have been too. But family relationships can be tricky, and perhaps Sirius’s desertion made things even more difficult for Regulus. After all, Albus Potter didn’t group up in a pure-blood obsessed family, but he too was always desperate to prove himself to his father. Perhaps that’s what Slytherin pride is – a thirst to prove yourself that the Sorting Hat also identified in Harry.

All of which is to say: people are the products of their environment. Which doesn’t mean unhappy people should be able to act without impunity, but perhaps it is worth taking the time to understand where they come from.

## It’s never too late to do the right thing 

![NarcissaMalfoy WB F6 NarcissaAndSnapePerformingUnbreakableVow Still 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/ljosFUh0VqGwc26Ko28y8/89f81831c582365534a8461423233781/NarcissaMalfoy_WB_F6_NarcissaAndSnapePerformingUnbreakableVow_Still_080615_Land.jpg)

If Slytherin’s students are the products of their environment, you might expect them all to become masters of the Dark Arts. After all, their founder was a pure-blood obsessive who deserted the school he helped create because he didn’t want to admit Muggle-borns.

But very few of the Slytherins mentioned here took that path. With the obvious exception of Voldemort himself, they each had a moment where they could have chosen a different outcome. When Snape agreed to help protect Harry, when Regulus decided to steal Voldemort’s Horcrux, when Draco refused to confirm that Harry’s identify to his aunt Bellatrix – however they did it, they all rejected Voldemort in the end.

The Slytherin crossword

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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and the Chamber of Secrets

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We hope you Slyther-win! 

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And remember, you can play more wordsearches, crosswords and Number Magic challenges over at our [puzzles hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/potter-puzzles). 

Ranked: Hermione Granger's most impressive moments

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Hermione sat on a bench in the Great Hall. She has a book open on her lap and is smiling.

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**Spoiler warning! This article contains spoilers from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.**

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## 8. Her Hogwarts record

Hermione arrived at Hogwarts ready to absorb as much magical learning as possible – and absorb it she definitely did. As a precocious 11-year-old this desire to know it all made her, well, a bit of a know-it-all, but it paid off by the time she (prematurely) finished school and essentially bought the entire [Hogwarts library](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/the-most-memorable-moments-in-the-hogwarts-library) along on a hunt for Horcruxes. 

The correct pronunciation of Wingardium Leviosa, receiving 112% in her Charms exam, taking so many subjects she needed a Time Turner to get to them all, being the only one to actually do homework (and thus realise Lupin was a werewolf, and Rita Skeeter an unregistered Animagus)… seriously: where would her friends be if Hermione hadn’t been paying attention in class?

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Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

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and the Philosopher's Stone 

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## 7. Setting up SPEW

In *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* we got a glimpse of activist Hermione, founder of the Society for the Promotion of Elfish Welfare (or SPEW, as it was universally known.) For someone so apparently keen on sticking to the rules, Hermione was never afraid to challenge the status quo. She also didn’t mind sticking her neck on the line for others and, if you ask us, for a Muggle-born to be the only student actively raising awareness of House Elves’ treatment was pretty impressive.


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Hermione Granger

‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery and – oh Harry – be careful!’

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## 6. Her use of “‘cool logic in the face of fire’”

Hermione loved a book but she also knew when to think on her feet, and her ability to problem-solve saved Harry and Ron from many a tricky situation. 

She displayed this talent very early on, using logic to help Harry advance through the enchantments surrounding the Philosopher’s Stone. Over the years, Hermione also applied her quick-thinking brain to many challenges – working out the monster in the Chamber of Secrets was a Basilisk; identifying Rita Skeeter’s magical method of bugging Hogwarts; disfiguring Harry when he was caught by Snatchers during the Horcrux hunt – and looking back at that first moment, it’s obvious just how important Hermione’s ability to stay calm and think rationally was. After all, it was impressive enough to earn her rare praise from Dumbledore and fifty points for Gryffindor.

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## 5. Brewing Polyjuice Potion 

Not all Hermione’s school achievements were on the record, but having the knowledge (and nerve) to secretly brew [Polyjuice Potion](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/polyjuice-potion) during her second year surely deserves recognition. OK, she was probably breaking a hundred school rules and, yes, she turned herself into a cat in the process, but it was a mark of how keen to solve the mystery of the Chamber of Secrets Hermione was that she even took such risks. Madam Pomfrey might have turned a blind eye to Hermione’s post-Polyjuice-predicament, but we see it as early proof of her utter determination.


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## 4. Her preparations for the Horcrux hunt 

While Ron was coaxing a ghoul to wear pyjamas and Harry was brooding over Dumbledore’s complete lack of Horcrux-hunting guidance, Hermione was enchanting handbags, selecting books, memorising tent-protection spells, smuggling Mad-Eye Moody’s entire stock of Polyjuice Potion into the Weasley household – oh, and modifying her parents’ memories so they’d forget she existed. You know, just one or two actual, practical preparations to make the whole Horcrux hunting thing that much easier. Again: where would Harry be without her? We’re impressed enough by that enchanted handbag spell, let alone anything else.

## 3. Setting up the DA

Another instance where Hermione’s organisational skills combined with her formidable magical talents and clear-sighted thinking was the creation of what would become Dumbledore’s Army. 

Harry might have been the de-facto leader of the DA, but it was Hermione’s idea and – once again – her magical expertise that kept them secure. Her Protean-Charmed Galleons were so impressive they led Ravenclaw Terry Boot to ask why she wasn’t in [his house](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/ravenclaw), and the charm she put on the parchment signed by DA members was enough to stop sneaky Marietta Edgecombe from giving any more than the most basic information. 

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and the Order of the Phoenix

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## 2. Her refusal to tell Bellatrix anything whilst being tortured

Hermione’s brains may have caused the Sorting Hat a serious Ravenclaw-vs-Gryffindor dilemma, but her bravery won out. Because Hermione was always brave. From supporting Harry in his attempts to reach the Philosopher’s Stone to slapping Malfoy across the face to joining Harry in the Department of Mysteries, there were many, many times Hermione showed true Gryffindor nerve. 

But perhaps the most awe-inspiring was when she refused to give in to Bellatrix Lestrange, even under torture from the Cruciatus Curse. Being able to stick to her story whilst enduring incredible pain showed impressive stamina and fortitude, and it’s a real contender for the top spot…

## 1. Becoming the actual Minister for Magic

… except for this: after, you know, helping save the entire Wizarding World, nobody would blame Hermione – or, indeed, Harry – if she’d settled down to a quiet life. Nobody, that is, except Hermione. Because what else could the “cleverest witch of her age” end up as, but Minister of Magic? If [Cursed Child](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/cursed-child-collection) shows us anything, it’s that being friends with Harry Potter means you’ll probably never have a quiet life – but then, you could say the same about Hermione Granger. She is definitely one impressive witch. 

Why Professor Flitwick was the perfect Head of Ravenclaw 

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## He was undoubtedly clever…

A brilliant Charms teacher, Flitwick was also a highly creative thinker. He taught Hogwart’s front doors to recognise a picture of Sirius after his escape from Azkaban, used his abilities to create beautiful Christmas decorations and – according to Lockhart, at least – knew more about Entrancing Enchantments than anyone. Like Hermione (who always gained a lot of praise from Flitwick), he also seemed able to retain a lot of information, if his explanation of the Fidelius Charm is anything to go by: 

> ‘An immensely complex spell… involving the magical concealment of a secret inside a single, living soul. The information is hidden inside the chosen person, or Secret-Keeper, and is henceforth impossible to find – unless, of course, the Secret-Keeper chooses to divulge it.'


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## … but he was also wise

You’d expect the Head of Ravenclaw to be intelligent, but Flitwick had a wisdom that went beyond cleverness. Whilst some of his fellow Ravenclaws (*cough* Lockhart *cough*) could be arrogant, Flitwick was modest. He even left the overseeing of Hogwart’s Duelling Club in Harry’s second year to Lockhart and Snape, despite apparently being a former duelling champion.

He was clearly trusted by Dumbledore to a high degree – contributing enchantments to protect the Philosopher’s Stone, touring the maze in the Triwizard tournament – and although he was never boastful, he had a quiet and enduring confidence in his own abilities. When Professor Umbridge sat in on his lesson during her time as Hogwarts High Inquisitor, Fred remarked:

> "Umbridge just lurked in the corner making notes on a clipboard. You know what Flitwick's like, he treated her like a guest, didn't seem to bother him at all.”


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## He was witty…

In fact, Flitwick was so unbothered by Umbridge he was happy to undermine her when circumstances called for it – particularly when it came to the Weasley twins’ and their magical box of tricks:

> ‘Thank you so much, Professor!’ said Professor Flitwick in his squeaky little voice. ‘I could have got rid of the sparklers myself, of course, but I wasn’t sure whether or not I had the
> authority.’

He seems to have reserved this kind of modest-but-still-sarcastic commentary for terrible Defence Against the Dark Arts teachers. Lockhart also felt the impact of Flitwick’s impatience when Ginny was taken into the Chamber of Secrets – Flitwick was one of the first to suggest Lockhart should make good on his boasts and rescue Ginny himself.


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## … but he was supportive

With his students, though, Flitwick’s calm approach made him very approachable. He was certainly less strict than his fellow Heads of House, allowing classroom games at Christmas and rarely giving out punishments. He clearly also felt a strong responsibility for those in his House – even after being Stupefied and knocked out by a Death Eater, he insisted on returning to look after his Ravenclaws.

And it wasn’t just his own House that he cared about. Flitwick burst into tears when Ginny Weasley was taken into the Chamber of Secrets, forgave Neville for moving him around the room during a Banishing Spells lesson, showed such admiration for Fred and George’s Portable Swamp that he left a section of it in place, and expressed his support for Harry following his Quibbler interview with a surreptitious box of sugar mice. Basically, if you weren’t a terrible Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, he was pretty supportive.


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## And he showed great leadership

He might have been small in stature, but Flitwick was always brave – the Sorting Hat did nearly put him in Gryffindor, after all. Not only did he refuse to stay in the hospital wing after being attacked by Death Eaters, he also returned to Hogwarts after Dumbledore’s death to help keep his students safe.

And when it came to the Battle of Hogwarts itself, Flitwick – so small he could barely see over the window frame – was a crucial part of the school’s defence:

> ‘Minerva!’ said a squeaky voice, and looking behind him, still shielding Luna from flying spells, Harry saw Professors Flitwick and Sprout sprinting up the corridor towards them in their nightclothes, with the enormous Professor Slughorn panting along at the rear.
> 
> ‘No!’ squealed Flitwick, raising his wand. ‘You’ll do no more murder at Hogwarts!’
> 
> Flitwick’s spell hit the suit of armour behind which Snape had taken shelter: with a clatter it came to life. Snape struggled free of the crushing arms and sent it flying back towards his attackers: Harry and Luna had to dive sideways to avoid it as it smashed into the wall and shattered. When Harry looked up again, Snape was in full flight, McGonagall, Flitwick and Sprout all thundering after him: Snape hurtled through a classroom door and, moments later, Harry heard McGonagall cry, ‘Coward! COWARD!’


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Essentially, he was the perfect mix of Gryffindor bravery and Ravenclaw wit and wisdom – really, could you ask for a better Head of House than Professor Filius Flitwick?

Why Newt Scamander was a true Hufflepuff

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## His adventures were always informed by his research

[Hufflepuffs](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/hufflepuff) are known to be hard-workers, and throughout the Fantastic Beasts series, it was extremely exciting to step behind the curtain (or inside the case!) of a Magizoologist and the work that they do. For Newt, this meant looking after a menagerie of magical creatures at all times, researching their magical properties and travelling around the world in search of more. Newt’s extensive knowledge would, of course, lead to the famous Hogwarts textbook, *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*, but his interest in magical creatures was also hugely beneficial during the fight against Grindelwald. For example, Newt used his Thunderbird, Frank, to create a storm across New York dispersing a memory potion to stop an entire city of No Majs remembering the wizarding world. [Newt’s Niffler](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/sneaky-niffler-quiz) is the one that manages to procure Dumbledore and Grindelwald’s vial! And Newt’s knowledge of the Qilin proved vital in the struggle against Grindelwald’s ascent to power.

Because Newt always treated magical creatures the same as humans, this open-minded attitude gave him extra powers to stand in front of a terribly Dark wizard, and a deeper understanding of how to conquer evil. 

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Newt and Bunty are standing on the steps in Newt's basement menagerie. Newt is rolling up his sleeves while Bunty holds his jacket.

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

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The Crimes of Grindelwald

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## He was never judgemental 

[Helga Hufflepuff](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/stories-of-the-hogwarts-founders), the founder of Hufflepuff house, once said she would teach any Hogwarts student, and ‘treat them just the same’. This unprejudiced viewpoint seemed to shine through Hufflepuff house, and certainly did inside Newt Scamander. “Imperfect understanding is often more dangerous than ignorance,” he once said. Whether it was befriending Jacob the No-Maj in a time when relations between wizards and non-magical people was strictly prohibited, or his refusal to shy away from the bigger, more scarier magical creatures, Newt was emboldened as a character by his acceptance of everyone. Leta Lestrange even once observed that Newt “never met a monster he couldn’t love”. 

Of course, we’re not saying all Hufflepuffs were perfectly accepting: Ernie Macmillan certainly liked to have a gossip during Harry Potter’s time at Hogwarts!

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Theseus, Newt and Leta standing in the Ministry of Magic. Newt and Theseus are staring at each other while Leta stands between them.

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## He was always curious 

While Ravenclaws may have the reputation as the bookish ones, Newt Scamander was as learned as he was kindly. Being exceptionally well-travelled taught Newt a lot about the world, alongside the magical creatures he met along the way. His resourcefulness put him in an excellent position to solve mysteries throughout the Fantastic Beasts series, such as figuring out the true identity of Percival Graves or that Jacob was under magical enchantments. Newt’s lateral thinking got his friends out of tight spots, such as saving Tina from execution, or escaping from sticky situations via Portkeys. For someone who deals with dangerous magical creatures a lot, you certainly have to be quick-thinking – something Newt applied to all walks of life.


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## He approached every challenge with kindness

When you think of a traditional ‘hero’ of a story, you may picture a warrior with a sword, or a caped crusader. But all Newt Scamander needed was a nice coat and an enchanted suitcase to get by. Many heroes may be adept fighters or capable of bravery beyond comprehension, but kindness is also a deeply important trait any true hero must have. A character like Credence was in dire need of kindness, which Newt was able to provide, for example. And Newt carried this kindness with him through every challenge he faced – perhaps getting results others could not. No wonder Dumbledore wanted him on his team so dearly.

You can read more about [Newt’s uniqueness as a hero here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/newt-scamander-different-kind-of-hero)

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## He certainly was unafraid of toil!

You may remember the Sorting Hat’s verse about Hufflepuffs being just and loyal, patient and true, and unafraid of toil. In Newt’s line of work, being a Magizoologist is a very active role, that requires a lot of extraneous activity (sometimes even performing interesting dances…) as well as knowing the academic side of things. All of this hard work that Newt put into looking after his creatures may well have helped him across his adventures in Fantastic Beasts, such as being adept at duelling, charmwork and running away from all manner of terrifying things. 

Hufflepuffs may have a reputation as being gentle, but Newt Scamander proved that there is so much more to the Hogwarts house than that. 


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Newt is crouching down by his case while in a jungle

The Newt Scamander crossword

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Let fur fly and feathers be rattled in today's crossword challenge.

<iframe width="550" height="700" allowtransparency="true" style="background: #FFFFFF" src="
https://bridgecard.wizardingworld.com/crossword/20220819/00122/" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

__And remember, you can play more wordsearches, crosswords and Number Magic challenges over at our [puzzles hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/potter-puzzles). Get cracking!__

Lessons you can learn from a Ravenclaw

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Luna casting a Patronus in the Room of Requirement

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Given its founder’s decision to only accept “those whose /Intelligence is surest...” maybe it’s not surprising that a number of former Ravenclaws became Hogwarts teachers. Although, from Professor Flitwick’s Charms expertise to Professor Trelawney’s somewhat unorthodox Divination methods and Professor Lockhart’s, ahem, creative use of the Memory Charm, Ravenclaw’s teaching staff was as varied as its student body. 

But that’s the thing about being a Ravenclaw: despite appearances, it was never just about academics. Here are a few other life lessons they taught us along the way.

## There’s (usually) more than one way of doing things

Hufflepuff students accessed their Common Room by tapping out a rhythmic sequence on a large barrel. Gryffindor and Slytherin’s Common Rooms required students to say the correct password. Ravenclaw Tower, obviously, demanded more. Every time a Ravenclaw wanted to chill out after lessons, grab their Quidditch gear, or even go to bed, they first had to respond to a question that had no (obviously) correct answer.

As Luna said, when Harry asked what would happen if you answered wrongly: “‘Well, you have to wait for somebody who gets it right…That way you learn, you see?’”

So far, so Ravenclaw. But this is not just theorising for the sake of it. Ravenclaw Tower’s regular question-and-answer sessions showed its students that there often is no simple answer – and in those cases, you’d do well to consider all possibilities. And sometimes, being open to learning from others is the key to unlock even the most riddle-some door.

## Embrace your individuality

Ravenclaw’s reputation for collecting the brightest minds meant it also had a large proportion of brilliant eccentrics. The singularly focused expert wandmaker Garrick Ollivander was a Ravenclaw. Uric the Oddball was a Ravenclaw. The tiny but mighty Professor Flitwick, a champion dueller, was Head of Ravenclaw House. And then, of course, there was Luna Lovegood – arguably everyone’s favourite Ravenclaw.

This is a house that welcomed individuality: encouraged it, even. As they say, geniuses are often out of step with ordinary folk, and true Ravenclaws know that it really doesn’t matter what you look like or how you dress, as long as you’re willing to learn. If you’ve got a passion for something, then even better. So wear those radish earrings with pride, and don’t ever worry about what anyone else thinks of you.

## Always pay attention

Ask a Ravenclaw and they might tell you – the devil is in the detail. Who can forget Professor Flitwick’s Wingardium Leviosa lesson, and the example he made of poor Wizard Baruffio – you know, the one “‘who said ‘s’ instead of ‘f’ and found himself on the floor with a buffalo on his chest.’”

But paying attention is not just important in class. It’s also essential for building relationships. Professor Lockhart certainly knew this – he wouldn’t have been able to take credit for other people’s achievements if he hadn’t been paying attention. Of course, most Ravenclaws didn’t use their abilities to charm others into giving up their secrets like Lockhart did, but most of them were pretty insightful. Ollivander, for example, used his ability to read people in order to facilitate their wand selection. And when Marietta Edgecombe betrayed the DA to Professor Umbridge, Cho Chang understood enough to explain to Harry why she’d done it. It didn’t make things any better, of course, but Cho refused to condemn her friend without at least trying to see her point of view.

Again, this ability to tune into other people’s feelings was particularly true of Luna, who – while she might have been a bit blunt – was emotionally intelligent enough to know exactly when Harry wanted space, and when he could do with a word of comfort. In fact, she knew him so well she even saw through his Weasley cousin disguise at Bill and Fleur’s wedding. Now that is what we call paying attention.

## "'A little extra wisdom never goes amiss…'"

This is what Professor Flitwick said to Harry when he was looking for Rowena Ravenclaw’s lost diadem, just as the Battle of Hogwarts was kicking off. Harry’s timing was as spectacular as ever, but like many Ravenclaws Flitwick couldn’t resist the chance to answer a question (which, incidentally, is clearly a trait Hermione shares – no wonder the Sorting Hat struggled to place her.)

Perhaps it’s this thirst for knowledge, above everything else, that makes Ravenclaw so very Ravenclaw. It’s not just that their students are clever, creative, intuitive. It’s that they really, genuinely, want to learn. And a ready mind is ready for anything, so perhaps it’s time to take a leaf out of a Ravenclaw’s book.

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