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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

Eight moments we loved from the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix film 

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Harry and Dumbledore's Army in the Room of Requirement 

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## Dumbledore’s Army training montage …   

One of the most joyous sequences of the fifth Harry Potter film was Dumbledore’s Army training and undermining Dolores Umbridge at every turn. Everything was wonderful about this montage: the Room of Requirement setting, the spirited accompanying music, the cries of Expelliarmus interspersed with Umbridge and Filch’s desperate attempts to catch the illegal society, Harry and Cho flirting, and of course – Neville’s journey that ends in his final successful use of Harry’s favourite Disarming Charm! You go Neville! 

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## Mr Weasley and Harry travelling to the Ministry …   

Watching Mr Weasley navigating the London Underground brings a moment of joy as Harry makes his way to his Ministry of Magic hearing. Not only do we get to see Arthur attempting to get through the barriers without a ticket, but there’s another treat in store as we’re introduced to the Ministry of Magic visitors’ entrance and the Ministry itself…  

<iframe width="2880" height="1284" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/13OoxNUcZ70?list=PLxDk3VcyNY6CVuY5s1apiYcFJ0nRQgWqK" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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## Meeting Luna Lovegood…   

Order of the Phoenix is where we first meet Luna Lovegood, so of course we had to include her and the way her character is brought to life by Evanna Lynch. Her calming voice, her whacky statements, all that talk of Nargles – oh Luna, we love you and this film for introducing you to us! 

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## Emotional range of a teaspoon… 

If you enjoyed the awkward post-Cho and Harry kissing chat in the Gryffindor common room when you read the book, the film certainly does that moment justice! A really nice touch for screen though is the cosy common room setting, with the roaring Gryffindor fire behind them and how they adorably get the giggles. We love this moment for its lightness in the darkness that descends on the wizarding world in this film.  

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## Dumbledore and Fawkes team up…   

We love the moment Dumbledore shows how little control Fudge and Umbridge really have over him – and how he actually tells them he has no intention of going to Azkaban, as though he’s refusing an invitation to dinner! We also get to see the magnificent power of the phoenix in this scene – and listen out for Kingsley Shaklebolt’s hilarious line at the end of the clip, we certainly agree with him!

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## Fred and George Weasley leave Hogwarts with a bang…   

It starts with the distant sound of bangs interrupting a Charms O.W.L. exam, and ends in complete glorious pandemonium as the Weasley twins show Umbridge exactly how much trouble they can make. We love the music that accompanies the whizzing and fizzing of the fireworks, as well as the look on Dolores Umbridge’s face, of course. Watch out for what happens to those dozens of Ministry Decrees, and Professor Flitwick’s show of support for the troublesome twins…  

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## Expecto Patronum…   

It’s hard to believe that just two Hogwarts years before, Harry was learning how to cast the Patronus Charm with Professor Lupin. We love it when he teaches his friends this beautiful, protective enchantment, and the moment this film brings all their different Patronuses to life. Oh, and don’t you just love the music in this montage? Remember, you can find out your own Patronus by signing up for the Harry Potter Fan Club [here.](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register)

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## Dumbledore and Voldemort duel at the Ministry…    

‘It was foolish of you to come here tonight, Tom.’ Albus Dumbledore shows why he is the only wizard Lord Voldemort ever feared as good and evil duel inside the Ministry of Magic. The way their complex spells are brought to life in this scene is truly breath-taking. We particularly love the sound of the magic, particularly when Dumbledore manipulates the water in the fountain – listen out for it! 

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Chapter Challenge: 'Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback'

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Welcome to your next challenge!

First thing's first. We've created a brand new special house points tracker that you can make at home which will help you keep score of your chapter challenge achievements. Take a look. 

Harry Potter Reading Magic | House Points Jars

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__Write down who your favourite character is in the book so far and why. We asked you the same question back in the first Chapter Challenge, but has it changed?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Draw a picture of Norbert the baby dragon.__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Answer this question and get a clue about the next chapter. What is the very large group of trees in the Hogwarts grounds called? Clue: it is out of bounds!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Write about yourself: Would you would want a pet dragon like Hagrid? Would it be fun? Or does it sound like too much trouble?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Prediction time! Harry and Hermione get caught by Filch at the end of this chapter. Do you think that Harry and Hermione will end up getting detention?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Time to be Ron Weasley: In 'Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback', Ron writes to his brother Charlie, who works with dragons in Romania. We hear/see Charlie’s reply in this chapter, but we don’t know exactly what Ron said to his brother. Write a letter to Charlie Weasley, pretending you’re Ron asking for help with Norbert. Remember to explain what’s been going on at Hogwarts! Charlie probably doesn’t know much about Harry or Hermione so you might want to tell him about them too ...__

*This mini-challenge is worth 2 house points.*

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__Secret quest: In this chapter, Hermione is worried about the school exams only being ten weeks away. Her reply to Ron saying that they’re ages away is: ‘That’s not ages. That’s like a second to Nicolas Flamel.’ Your secret task is to ask someone (ideally a parent or guardian) in your household how old they are. You need to reply, ‘That’s not old. That’s like a second to Nicolas Flamel.’ When they look confused, tell them that Nicolas Flamel is six hundred and sixty-five years old, so they have nothing to worry about!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 3 house points.*

  OR...

***

__Quiz time: If this secret quest isn’t for you, you can collect the same number of house points if you answer every question correctly in our [Chapter Fourteen Quiz here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/chapter-quiz-chapter-fourteen-five-questions "CQ14")...__

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Did you complete this Chapter Challenge? How many house points did you collect of the possible 10? Have you put all your pieces of paper in the hourglass so you don’t lose count? 

Still need to find out which Hogwarts house you belong in? [Here’s a link to the Sorting Ceremony on our website](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register "Register"). Or download the Wizarding World app to find out your house whilst wearing the Sorting Hat! You’ll need an adult to help you register.

For more quizzes, crafting, articles and other fun activites go to the Harry [Potter Reading Magic hub.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/starting-harry-potter)

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

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Harry Potter crafting magic for you to enjoy at home

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## [Make your own Hogwarts house bookmarks](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/make-your-own-hogwarts-house-bookmarks) 
How about starting off with these beautiful bookmarks? Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Slytherin or Hufflepuff these colourful crafts are a great way to show off your Hogwarts house and they’re also very useful for marking your place in a Harry Potter book! Still need to find out which house you belong to? [Take our Sorting Ceremony here](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register). 

## [Learn how to make your very own broomstick charm](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/learn-how-to-make-broomstick-charm)
Quidditch is one of Harry’s favourite things about Hogwarts – and he’s really good at it too! If you’re a Quidditch fan like him, then you’re going to love this crafting tutorial, where we teach you how to make your very own broomstick. Is it a Nimbus Two Thousand? You decide! 

## [Make your own Hogwarts-style paper quills](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/make-your-own-hogwarts-style-paper-quills)
Once witches and wizards start at Hogwarts, just like Muggle children, they have to do their homework. Why not make your own writing more fun with one of these paper quills? You can pretend you bought it at Diagon Alley – we won’t tell!

## [Make your own Cornish pixie light up jar](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/make-your-own-cornish-pixie-light-up-jar)
Cornish pixies feature in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and cause quite a bit of bother! With this crafting video you can learn how to make your very own pesky pixie and pop it in its very own light up jar. And if you want to use a pixie template, you’ll find two different kinds on the article page. But watch out – these creatures cause all kind of trouble! 

## [Create your own paper owls](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/create-your-own-paper-owls)
This crafting video is a celebration of the owls of the wizarding world – who deliver post but also make wonderful companions! With this tutorial you can learn how to make your very own feathered friend – tawny, screech, barn, brown or snowy? It’s up to you! 

## [Learn how to draw a Niffler](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/watch-our-guide-on-how-to-draw-a-niffler-video)
These cute creatures feature in one of Harry, Ron and Hermione’s Care of Magical Creatures lessons – but they’re not quite as well-behaved as they look! We teach you how to draw one of these cuddly troublemakers in this video. 

## [Show off your Hogwarts house with these rock painting tutorials](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/show-off-your-hogwarts-house-with-these-rock-painting-tutorials)
Learn how to paint your own house mascot onto a rock with this crafting video! Did you know the Hogwarts coat of arms features a lion for Gryffindor, an eagle for Ravenclaw, a badger for Hufflepuff and a snake for Slytherin? Show how proud you are of your Hogwarts house with this fun activity! 

                                  ***

Find all these crafting videos, and more on our [Crafting Magic hub here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/crafting-magic).

Is sneaking around the Hogwarts castle at night ever a good idea?

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Filch and Mrs Norris catch Ron and Harry out of bed

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## No, it’s never a good idea 

The Hogwarts castle is hard enough to navigate during the day. With one hundred and forty-two staircases that like to change, the subjects of portraits visiting each other’s frames, and Peeves the poltergeist causing havoc left, right and centre, it’s frankly surprising any Hogwarts student would even think about leaving their nice cosy common rooms after a long day of all that. But navigational difficulties aside, we’ve got plenty of other arguments for why it is never a good idea to sneak around the Hogwarts castle at night. 

It’s no use trying to deny it, there are scary surprises hidden just about around every corner of the castle. In fact, the very first time Harry, Ron, Hermione and Neville ventured out in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, they came face-to-face with a monstrous three-headed dog. No matter what Hagrid says, Fluffy is not something you’d want to come across on a midnight stroll of a ghost-filled castle. And let’s not forget the Basilisk in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, that dwelt in the bowels of the castle and would kill you if it looked you straight in the eye. Imagine coming across that? 



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If the Monster of Slytherin isn’t enough to worry about, then what about the wrath of your fellow students the following morning, when they realise that you’ve lost them a ton of house points? Harry Potter might have ended the first Wizarding War, but even that wasn’t enough to save him from the whole school giving him the cold shoulder when he, Hermione and Neville lost 150 points in one night for being out of bed. Okay, so he helped Hagrid out with Norbert, but was it worth it? And since he had an Invisibility Cloak, wouldn’t things have gone so much more smoothly if he and Hermione had taken Norbert up the top of that tower during the day?  

Harry and Hermione were caught out in Philosopher’s Stone, because they left the Invisibility Cloak at the top of the tower, but your average student doesn’t own one of the Deathly Hallows. And even with the cloak, there’s so much risk of being caught – there are eyes everywhere. A portrait could see you and gossip – Sir Cadogan isn’t exactly a quiet soul, is he? Or what about a ghost, particularly Peeves or an unfriendly one like the Bloody Baron. Then, of course, there’s Filch, with his feline side-kick Mrs Norris to contend with, and Snape often seems to be out and about at night. And then, there’s Dumbledore. In Philosopher’s Stone, it becomes clear that even though Harry used the cloak to get to the Mirror of Erised, Dumbledore knew exactly what he was up to: 

‘He’s a funny man, Dumbledore. I think he sort of wanted to give me a chance. I think he knows more or less everything that goes on here, you know.’ 

So in summary, sneaking around the castle at night is never a good idea because you’ll probably come up against a terrifying creature, you’ll almost definitely get caught – and if you don’t get eaten by said terrifying creature – your fellow students will never speak to you again if you lose them about a hundred house points. Case closed. 

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## Yes, it can be a good idea

Now, hold on a minute. Obviously, we’re not encouraging general rule-breaking here... But this is no ordinary rule-breaking! This is exploring a magical castle full of secrets and mysteries rule-breaking! 

Of course, we know all about the consequences of roaming the castle at night, such as losing substantial amounts of house points, detentions or quite simply incurring Filch’s personal wrath – but that is only if you get caught. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the full scope of Hogwarts, a magnificent, sprawling building bursting with surprises at every corner, inexhaustible magic seeping from its very crevices. Of course, it’s dangerous, but if you took the right precautions, think of the wonders you could discover. Fred and George Weasley collected detentions like others collect stamps for their exploits, but you can’t deny they uncovered a number of amazing things during their time at Hogwarts. They followed in the footsteps of the Marauders, another group of Hogwarts explorers, who loved sneaking around the school so much they made a handy map all about it. 

It is no surprise that the naturally inquisitive Harry developed a penchant for trips around the castle after-dark. After all, he had spent eleven years at Privet Drive, and for the vast majority of that time, cooped up in a tiny cupboard. Give this young lad an entire castle full of riddles and hidden passageways, and no wonder he slowly became addicted to the thrill of it. Usually, Harry was wandering the corridors for mystery-solving purposes, but there were also other perks, such as how he was able to finally find a way to visit Hogsmeade (psst, just look behind the one-eyed witch statue!) when cruel Uncle Vernon wouldn’t sign his permission slip.

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Roaming the castle gave Harry the freedom he so often desired, and if he hadn’t, half of his adventures wouldn’t have happened. Roaming the castle was genuinely required to thwart Voldemort in his attempts to obtain the Philosopher’s Stone. Roaming the castle allowed Harry to research Nicolas Flamel in the Restricted Section of the library. Roaming the castle was paramount so Harry could sneak into the Prefect’s bathroom and figure out the mysteries of the golden egg in Goblet of Fire. Roaming the castle meant Harry found the Mirror of Erised, and got to see a glimmer at the family he would never know. So many memorable moments happened at Hogwarts in the dead of night, and, if anything, the castle invites you to go and explore it! Think of rooms like the Room of Requirement, which is just itching for you to find it, so it can magically assist you. The staircases literally change direction, enticing you to get lost. 

You only live once. And if, in that lifetime, if you find yourself with magical powers, living in one of the wizarding world’s most enchanting buildings for only a handful of years, are you really going to spend all that time cooped up in your common room, reading your Ancient Runes textbook? Yes, we hear the armchairs are very cosy and squishy, but you can sit in armchairs whenever you like.

                                 ***

What do you think? And remember, you can remind yourself of one of Harry’s more...unsuccessful late-night Hogwarts trips in [Chapter Fourteen, 'Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback', narrated by Jason Isaacs, Tom Felton, and Helen McCrory here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-norbert-the-norwegian-ridgeback "CH14").


Chapter Challenge: 'Nicolas Flamel'

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__Write down whether you think the Sorting Hat was right to put Neville Longbottom in Gryffindor. Why?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Draw a picture of what you think Nicolas Flamel would look like. Remember he’s six hundred and sixty-five years old.__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Answer this question and get a clue about the next chapter. Which mythical beast breathes fire and usually has wings? Clue: Back in Chapter Five, Hagrid mentioned there were some guarding vaults at Gringotts?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Write about yourself: Would you want a magical object that makes gold and stops you ever dying, like the Philosopher’s Stone? What would be good about it? What might be difficult?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Prediction time! Harry flies above the Forbidden Forest in this chapter. Do you think he will visit the forest on foot in a later chapter? Or do you think that would be too out of bounds?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

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__Time to guard the Philosopher’s Stone: In 'Nicolas Flamel', Harry guesses that there are other things guarding the Philosopher’s Stone apart from Fluffy. What would you choose to guard the precious stone? Try to think of at least three.__

*This mini-challenge is worth 2 house points.*

<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5kIRgx7Pxh0bNuMPmcaguy/0cd8d07f3c587d0c32f678e9480156f8/7.png">

__Secret quest: Pretend that you’ve been hit by a Leg-Locker Curse like Neville Longbottom in this chapter. This curse means that your legs have been stuck together so in order to get about, you need to bunny hop everywhere. You must pretend you’ve been hit by the curse for at least fifteen minutes! If anyone asks what’s wrong, blame it on Draco Malfoy.__

*This mini-challenge is worth 3 house points.*

  OR...

***

__Quiz time: If this secret quest isn’t for you, you can collect the same number of house points if you answer every question correctly in our [Chapter Thirteen Quiz here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/chapter-quiz-chapter-thirteen-five-questions "CQ13")...__

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Did you complete this Chapter Challenge? How many house points did you collect of the possible 10? Have you put all your pieces of paper in the hourglass so you don’t lose count? When a reading of Chapter Fourteen becomes available, there’ll be another challenge waiting for you!

And don’t forget to collect all your house points in your house hourglass. Remember, your hourglass can be any container – a bottle, a jar, a box. Every time you earn a house point, cut out a little square or circle of paper or card – colour it in with your house colour – and then put it into your hourglass. When you need to use scissors, make sure you ask an adult to help you.

Still need to find out which Hogwarts house you belong in? [Here’s a link to the Sorting Ceremony on our website](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register "Register"). Or download the Wizarding World app to find out your house whilst wearing the Sorting Hat! You’ll need an adult to help you register.

For more quizzes, crafting, articles and other fun activites go to the Harry [Potter Reading Magic hub.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/starting-harry-potter)

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

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The real Nicolas Flamel and the Philosopher’s Stone 

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Harry Rona and Hermione search for Nicholas Flamel's name in the libary  

Nicolas Flamel isn't just a character in Harry Potter, he was a real person -  A French alchemist born in the 14th century. Read all about him here!

The real Nicolas Flamel and the Philosopher’s Stone | Wizarding World

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In *[Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone](https://www.wizardingworld.com/discover/books/harry-potter-and-the-philosophers-stone)*, Nicolas Flamel is the only known maker of the Philosopher’s Stone, an object capable of turning metal into gold and granting immortality with its Elixir of Life. At 665 years old, Nicolas and his 658-year-old wife Perenelle certainly make use of the Elixir, but having lived more than six centuries in the wizarding world they favour a quiet life.

The real Nicolas Flamel – because he was a real person – was probably born in 1330 in Pontoise, near Paris. Which would indeed make him around 665 at the time of *Philosopher’s Stone* if he had really had access to Elixir of Life (and some people think he might have…).

But how did a little-known bookseller from 14th-century France become so synonymous with alchemy that he fetched up in the wizarding world?

## The man

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Image of Beauxbatons Crest from the designers Mina Lima

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We are told that the Flamel of the wizarding world met his wife, Perenelle, at Beauxbatons. While we don’t know where they met, the real Flamel’s wife was called Perenelle. She been widowed twice before and brought the fortune of her two previous husbands to her marriage with Nicolas.

After their marriage, Flamel continued to work as a bookseller. The couple were relatively wealthy – they owned several properties and donated money to the French Catholic church. Their wealth and philanthropy has become part of the legend that surrounds Flamel’s posthumous reputation as an alchemist. 

Records show that Flamel died in 1418. He was buried in Paris, beneath a tombstone he designed himself, and his will – dated 1416 – apparently left the majority of his library to a nephew, Perrier, of whom little else is known.

## The dream

This is where the historical facts about Flamel start to merge with the stories. Because some people don’t believe he died at all. There are reports of him and Perenelle having faked their deaths and escaped to India, and their immortality is all down to his supposed alchemical genius.

Flamel’s interest in alchemy apparently began with a book. It is said that a stranger approached him one day with a rare manuscript. Flamel recognised it, because not long before, he had dreamed about an angel. The angel had appeared holding a book, telling him: ‘One day you will see in it that which no other man will be able to see…’

## The book

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The book was written by a man called Abraham the Jew. It was in Greek and other languages Flamel couldn’t understand, including Hebrew. It was also full of awe-inspiring symbols which Flamel realised were instructions on alchemy.

Flamel supposedly spent 21 years trying to decipher it all. When Paris couldn't provide answers, he set off to Spain to find a Jewish scholar and came across Maestro Canches, a learned Jewish man living in Leon. Canches recognised Abraham the Jew as one of the earliest masters of the Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah and translated the few pages Flamel had with him before agreeing to travel back to France and translate the rest. Unfortunately, he fell ill on the journey and died before they reached Paris.

Luckily for Flamel, Canches had taught him enough. Over the next three years he went on to translate the entire book, learning the secrets of Hermeticism – an esoteric tradition based on the divine writings of Hermes Trismegistus.

## The legend

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Those who believe Flamel used the Book of Abraham the Jew to create a [Philosopher’s Stone](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-philosophers-stone) point to the fact that Flamel then became rich. Apparently, his incredible wealth and generosity brought him to the attention of Charles VI, who ordered an investigation into Flamel but found nothing of interest.

Others say there is no indication that Flamel had any involvement in alchemy at all, and the stories about the mysterious book are just that: stories. Some believe that the character of Flamel was invented by 17th-century publishers in a bid to sell lots of supposedly ancient alchemical books.

## Posthumous reputation

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Flamel’s reputation was fuelled by a number of books attributed to him long after his death. One was *Le Livre des Figures Hiéroglyphiques*, or *The Book of Hieroglyphic Figures*, published in Paris in 1612. By the mid 17th-century, Flamel had become legendary, with reported sightings and well-known historical figures like Isaac Newton referring to his alchemical prowess.

Interest resurfaced in the 19th-century. Flamel is mentioned in Victor Hugo’s *The Hunchback of Notre Dame*, the composer Erik Satie was said to be fascinated by him, and the freemason Albert Pike mentions him in his book *Morals and Dogma*, a philosophical rationale of freemasonry. Whether or not they believed he was still alive is another thing, but these learned figures all identified Flamel as an alchemist. 

More recently, as well as *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*, Flamel has been mentioned in fictional works including Umberto Eco’s *Foucault’s Pendulum* in 1988 and Dan Brown’s *The Da Vinci Code* in 2003.

So, while the real Flamel may not have been a genuine alchemist, even without the Elixir of Life, his legendary reputation has certainly made him immortal. 

Discover the films

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to Fantastic Beasts

What the Mirror of Erised can tell us about the Boy Who Lived

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__Beware! This article contains spoilers for the entire Harry Potter series, so we wouldn’t advise reading it until you’ve read all seven books...__

What does Harry see in the Mirror of Erised? Unlike his friend Ron, he doesn’t see a successful future, but an unreachable past. In the mirror, Harry encounters the Potter family for the first time in his life. Most prominently he sees his mother and father smiling down at him and it is this that is ‘nothing more or less than the deepest, most desperate desire’ of young Harry’s heart. 

This fundamental part of Harry Potter – this longing for a real family – reveals a lot about his experiences up until this point. Though, as readers, we’ve met the Dursleys, perhaps we don’t truly understand the extent of what they haven’t given Harry until he stands in front of the mirror. He’s never seen a photograph of a single member of his family before – not even his parents’ faces. Their smiles remind us how Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon have treated him with utter contempt and pure dislike. The juxtaposition between the family Harry wishes he has, and the one he ended up with in Privet Drive is stark, and shines a light on the lonely and loveless childhood Harry has endured before arriving at Hogwarts. Harry has never pined for material things – he was never going to get them living with the Dursleys anyway – what he wants, most desperately, is a family that loves him. Something that his aunt, uncle and cousin could have given him, but chose not to. 

We also see this desire for family reflected in Harry’s actions in the future. Once Harry finds out the truth about Sirius Black – particularly that he was his godfather and his father’s friend – he can do nothing wrong in Harry’s eyes. The affection between them is almost instantaneous, and by the summer holidays after Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, it is Sirius that Harry chooses to write to about his scar hurting, rather than Ron or Hermione. And when Harry loses Sirius… the renewed grief is unbearable. The importance of family to Harry is also perhaps why he loves his summers at the Burrow so much. Molly and Arthur love Harry like a son – indeed when Sirius reminds Molly during an argument that Harry is not, in fact, one of her own, she replies: 'He’s as good as’. No doubt Harry feels a closeness to Mr and Mrs Weasley that fills the family-shaped hole that the vision in the Mirror of Erised revealed. 


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After Harry first discovers the mirror in Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone, he becomes obsessed with going back to it night after night. And this obsession – though we can hardly blame him for wanting to spend time with the family he never knew – becomes all-consuming. He won’t play chess; he won’t visit Hagrid; and he certainly won’t listen to Ron trying to stop him getting back in front of the mirror. This early sign that Harry is prone to obsessive behaviour is important to note. 

As Harry gets older this part of his nature shows itself time and time again – with varying consequences. His hunches, which often turn into obsessions, can be vital in the fight against Lord Voldemort, but can also be a hinderance. In Philosopher’s Stone itself, Harry is preoccupied with the idea that it is Snape who is trying to steal the stone, which leads to a kind of blindness only being face to face with the truth can dispel. In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, he becomes fixated with finding out about Riddle’s diary: ‘even though he knew the diary was blank, he kept absent-mindedly picking it up and turning the pages, as though it was a story he wanted to finish’. In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the door to the Department of Mysteries haunts his dreams over and over again. In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, his obsession with Draco Malfoy means that his friends are protected with Felix Felicis the night Draco finally succeeds in his plan. But it also alienates Harry from his friends for much of the school year and leaves him brooding and pawing over the Marauder’s Map alone. 

Harry’s episode with the Mirror of Erised also reveals a tendency to seek out solitude. This is the first time Harry pushes Ron – his best friend – away. He finds the mirror alone because he wants to adventure wearing his father’s cloak on his own. Harry sometimes finds it difficult to share or even express the burdens he feels – the burdens that come with being orphaned by Lord Voldemort. When he is determined to save the Philosopher’s Stone, Harry initially assumes he’s going alone. And still, even after six years of adventures together, Harry tries to separate himself from Ron and Hermione when it comes to hunting down Horcruxes: ‘No –’ said Harry quickly; he had not counted on this, he had meant them to understand that he was undertaking this most dangerous journey alone’. Luckily Ron and Hermione know him well enough by this point that they understand – and then as good friends often do – tell him he’s being ridiculous. 

The final and most important aspect of Harry’s character that his second encounter with the Mirror of Erised tells us, is that he lacks a thirst for power. Faced with his reflection with the Philosopher’s Stone, it enters his pocket – as Dumbledore tells us – because he ‘wanted to find the Stone – find it, but not use it’. 

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It is, we are led to believe, a rare witch or wizard who could ignore the powerful attraction of the Elixir of Life. And this part of Harry plays an enormously important role in his eventual vanquishing of Lord Voldemort. Harry unites the Deathly Hallows but not so as to use them – no – but to defeat one of the darkest wizards of all time. And when he’s done, what does he do? He ends the cycle. He puts the Elder Wand to rest. 
‘Maybe a man in a million could unite the Hallows, Harry’, Dumbledore tells him. Perhaps that is what the Mirror of Erised tells us about the Boy Who Lived – he is one unique wizard with a Gryffindor heart of gold. 


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And remember you can [watch Matthew Lewis, Helen Howard and Imelda Staunton reading Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, where you can revisit Harry’s first encounter with the Mirror of Erised here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-mirror-of-erised "C12").



Chapter Challenge: 'The Mirror of Erised'

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Welcome to your twelfth Chapter Challenge! If you need a reminder of Chapter Twelve, [you can watch Matthew Lewis, Helen Howard and Imelda Staunton, reading 'The Mirror of Erised' any time you like here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-mirror-of-erised "CH12"). 

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<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5NbVl2rYgQOsomiheQlToy/603c0b01ec47be9b76d40e9b917a327a/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-14.png" alt="my boat">
  
__Write down which you think was Harry’s best Christmas present and why.__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7DGPxsJ6CKKAybKJk2z8VU/55be28bac6ab6daded4ac10bb10c57a5/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-15.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Draw the Mirror of Erised. Make sure you include what *you* would see in its reflection.__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
 
<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/76EKXm249R6Av82pPNGMoG/e4a932f2b477a3e645b7280773330069/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-16.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Answer this question and get a clue about the next chapter. What do you get with a Chocolate Frog?__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3RO65v5jlfLcUheOJIz3Ky/a17b402d7bf7171748d33604faec3580/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_1.png" alt="my boat">

__Write about yourself: If you had an Invisibility Cloak, what would be your first adventure?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1XMWX309jyKzFCwPLGQanc/2281a50062bd3fddf1828bd941302a3d/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_2.png" alt="my boat">

__Prediction time! Do you think Harry will ever see the Mirror of Erised again?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4EH2eETTkq3a5Mbf24yLt4/c2bf7363fb4493fba513fc766137d831/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_3.png" alt="my boat">

__Time to be Mrs Weasley: In 'The Mirror of Erised', Mrs Weasley sends her children – and Harry – a special knitted Weasley jumper. Design a Weasley jumper for every member of your household. What colour would it be? Would it have a letter on the front? Or something else? And don’t forget to design one for yourself!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 2 house points.*

  
<IMG src="https://contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5kRx9NHQ0mdxxkoKpgC0gV/865d36dd4c210aa10a8cec9e846f9abb/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-18.png" alt="my boat">

__Secret quest: Choose something that belongs to you – perhaps a book or a toy or a mug or similar. Leave it somewhere with a note addressed to someone in your household. The note must say the person’s name and the words ‘Use it well’ just like the Invisibility Cloak. After a day you can ask for the object back if you want to!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 3 house points.*
  
  OR...

***

__Quiz time: If this secret quest isn’t for you, you can collect the same number of house points if you answer every question correctly in our [Chapter Twelve Quiz here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/chapter-quiz-chapter-twelve-five-questions "CQ12")...__

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Did you complete this Chapter Challenge? How many house points did you collect of the possible 10? Have you put all your pieces of paper in the hourglass so you don’t lose count? When a reading of Chapter Thirteen becomes available, there’ll be another challenge waiting for you!

And don’t forget to collect all your house points in your house hourglass. Remember, your hourglass can be any container – a bottle, a jar, a box. Every time you earn a house point, cut out a little square or circle of paper or card – colour it in with your house colour – and then put it into your hourglass. When you need to use scissors, make sure you ask an adult to help you.

Still need to find out which Hogwarts house you belong in? [Here’s a link to the Sorting Ceremony on our website](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register "Register"). Or download the Wizarding World app to find out your house whilst wearing the Sorting Hat! You’ll need an adult to help you register.

And for more quizzes, crafting, articles and other fun activites go to the [Harry Potter At Home Hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home "HPAH hub").

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

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Harry Potter At Home: fun articles for first time readers

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## [Make your very own scrapbook of Harry Potter characters with Scholastic](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/make-your-own-harry-potter-scrapbook)
Read about some of the characters Scholastic would include in their Harry Potter scrapbook and then make your own! You can even use a template they’ve provided on their website – you’ll see the link at the bottom of the article. 

## [Harry Potter Who’s Who: Introducing the Dursleys](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-whos-who-muggles-edition-introducing-the-dursleys)
Learn all about the dreadful Dursleys with this article from Bloomsbury, plus you can find a link to the Who’s Who page on their website where you can find out other facts about Harry Potter characters.

## [A handy guide to reading the Harry Potter books for the first time](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/handy-guide-to-reading-harry-potter-for-first-time)
The Wizarding World team have put together this guide if you’re just embarking on your first ever Hogwarts journey. It has handy tips and introductions to get you started. 

## [Twenty fantastic facts about Harry Potter and Philosopher’s Stone from Bloomsbury](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/find-twenty-fantastic-facts-about-harry-potter-and-the-philosophers-stone)
Can you answer these twenty questions about the book that started off Harry Potter’s journey? Have a go, and when you’ve answered as many as you can – Bloomsbury have provided a beautiful infographic to help you learn even more about the first Harry Potter book. 

## [Ten words you need to know when reading the first Harry Potter book ](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/web-ten-words-you-need-to-know-for-hp1)
The magical world is full of new and wonderful things, including words! This article from Bloomsbury will really help you out when you come across some of the trickier ones at the start of Harry’s journey. And if you want to look up more magical words, you can find a link in the article to Bloomsbury’s Harry Potter Glossary on their website. 

## [How to cast a spell over everyday games](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/how-to-cast-a-spell-over-everyday-games)
Forget wizard chess, this article is all about bringing some magical activities into your home. The Wizarding World team teach you how to play Wizard’s hangman, Harry Potter Bingo and Snitches & Lightning Bolts! 

## [Make reading Harry Potter even more fun with these three easy tips from Scholastic](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/make-reading-harry-potter-fun-three-easy-tips)
Scholastic has set out some great ideas to inspire you with your reading, from reading aloud to making art part of your Harry Potter experience. Speaking of art, how about checking out our Crafting Magic collection too, where you can find video tutorials about drawing magical beasts to making a broomstick keyring! 
## [Learn some friendship lessons and discover your best friend with Bloomsbury](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/hogwarts-best-friend-with-bloomsbury)
Hogwarts might be a school of magic, but starting at Hogwarts is as much about making friends, as it is learning spells. Read all about the wizarding friendship from the first Harry Potter book in this article, and then find out who would be your Hogwarts best friend with Bloomsbury’s fun quiz. 

For even more first year reading fun [here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/first-year-readers). And if you’re ready for a challenge, you can [find puzzles and quizzes about the first Harry Potter book here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/first-year-challenges).

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