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The hidden names of the Harry Potter characters

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

__Harry Potter__
 
Like the rest of the wizarding world, we’re sure you know the full name of the Boy Who Lived. But as a quick reminder, it’s [Harry James Potte](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter)r – with [James](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/james-potter) also being his father’s name.

__Ron Weasley__
 
A name that would take a few years to grow into, Ron’s full title was [Ronald Bilius Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley). Yes, Bilius, like his uncle who was known for his unique party trick and unfortunate Grim sighting – quite the legacy!

__Hermione Granger__
 
Hermione’s middle name was Jean – a name that suited a responsible person like her. Yet, she may never have been [Hermione Granger](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) at all. The first iteration of her name was Hermione Puckle… adorable! 

__Ginny Weasley__
 
In our eyes, the youngest Weasley’s moniker could have been inspired by two iconic queens. Her first name, [Ginevra](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley), happens to be the Italian form of the name Guinevere – the famous queen of Arthurian legend. Her middle name was after her mother, [Molly](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley), who might not *technically* be royalty… but she’s definitely our queen.

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Ginny is wearing Gryffindor Quidditch robes and flying on her broomstick.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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and the Half-Blood Prince

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__Neville Longbottom__
 
Our favourite underdog might have had a different surname entirely. We could have ended up with either Neville Puff or Neville Sidebottom, but we think the final decision of [Neville Longbottom](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) suited him best.

__Luna Lovegood__
 
If you look at page 90 of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*, you will spot the surname ‘Moon’ during the Sorting Ceremony. Before J.K. Rowling created the one-and-only [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood), there was Lily Moon – the earlier iteration of our eccentric Ravenclaw.

__Draco Malfoy__
 
Of course [Draco’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) middle name was after the father he hero-worshipped, [Lucius](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lucius-malfoy)… but did you know what his surname might have been? Draco Spungen, Draco Smart and even Draco Spinks were in consideration. However, with ‘Malfoy’ being inspired by the Old French for ‘bad faith’, his final name suited him perfectly. 

__Albus Dumbledore__
 
The twinkly-eyed headmaster had not one but three middle names. The grand-sounding Percival after his father, powerful Wulfric and the more down-to-earth… Brian. Yep, he was [Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) – impressive but approachable.

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Albus Dumbledore in his office by the cabinet that contains memories

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__Horace Slughorn__
 
For a wizard that was always looking to climb the social ladder, we’re sure Horace was suitably pleased with his full name that was rather well-to-do – [Horace Eugene Flaccus Slughorn](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/horace-slughorn).

__Dolores Umbridge__
 
With Dolores meaning ‘sorrow’ and Umbridge being a play on the word ‘umbrage’ (meaning to take offence), you’d assume her middle name would mean something like evil or petty. It doesn’t, it’s simply… Jane. However, J.K. Rowling thought it looked rather ‘smug and neat between her other two names’, which is actually very [Umbridge](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/dolores-umbridge) vibes.

__Remus Lupin__
 
For a man whose name feels suitably wolfish and mysterious, you might be surprised to hear that [Lupin’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/remus-lupin) middle name is John.

__Percy Weasley__
 
Did you know that [Percy’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/percy-weasley) middle name is Ignatius? And did you also know it is a Late Roman word for fire? Rather fitting for this member of our favourite flame-haired family.

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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and the Order of the Phoenix

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__Bill Weasley__ 
 
[William Arthur Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/bill-weasley) was the full name of this dashing Curse-Breaker. Not only is [Arthur](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/arthur-weasley) the name of his father, it’s also the name of the legendary King Arthur. With his sister also have an Arthurian inspired name, is this purely coincidence?

__Fleur Delacour__
 
The full name of the [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) champion for [Beauxbatons](/fact-file/locations/beauxbatons-academy) was [Fleur Isabelle Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour).

__Tom Riddle__
 
Before he was [Lord Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort), he was Tom Marvolo Riddle – an anagram of ‘I am Lord Voldemort’. At least that was what he was called in the English versions of the books. From Elvis to Trevor, his name was quite different in other parts of the world which [you can read about here](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/how-lord-voldemort-is-known-around-the-world).

__Albus Potter__
 
Harry and Ginny’s youngest son was named after Albus Dumbledore and a man Harry described as ‘probably the bravest man I ever knew’… [Severus Snape](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/severus-snape). Yep, that’s right, [Albus Severus Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-potter) was named after the cranky [Potions](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/potions) professor that Harry had once loathed.

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Harry with Albus on bed original cast - Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

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__James Potter (Junior)__
 
There was only ever going to be one name for Harry’s first-born son – James Sirius Potter – after the father and godfather he didn’t have enough time with.

__Lily Potter (Junior)__
 
Harry and Ginny’s daughter, Lily Luna Potter, had a name that was inspired by two important witches. There was Lily for Harry’s mother and Luna for their Ravenclaw friend. 

__Teddy Lupin__
 
The full name of [Tonks](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/nymphadora-tonks-fact-file) and Lupin’s son was Edward Remus Lupin. Edward after Tonks’ beloved father, Ted, and Remus, well, after Remus!

__Aunt Marge__
 
Vernon’s repugnant sister has a name that isn’t quite as off-putting as her – [Marjorie Eileen Dursley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/marge-dursley).

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__[Cornelius Fudge](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cornelius-fudge)__
 
Did you know that Oswald is the middle name of this former [Minister for Magic](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/minister-for-magic)?

__Arabella Figg__
 
Lovable [Squib](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/squibs), fan of cats and someone who protected Harry, even if he didn’t know it, [Arabella Figg’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/arabella-figg) middle name was the adorable, Doreen.

__Moaning Myrtle__
 
It’s easy to forget that the ghost who haunted the u-bend wasn’t always known as [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle). She was once a [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) student named Myrtle Warren.

__Nearly Headless Nick__
 
A [ghost](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ghost) that (when alive) was part of the British Royal Court was never going to be just ‘Nick’. Oh no, he needs a name that is far grander – [Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/nearly-headless-nick) does the trick.

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__The Grey Lady__
 
Do you know what the Ravenclaw ghost’s real name was? It was [Helena Ravenclaw](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/the-grey-lady) and yes, she did have a connection to *the* [Rowena Ravenclaw](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rowena-ravenclaw).

__Regulus Black__
 
[Sirius’](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sirius-black) younger brother [Regulus](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/regulus-black) had the middle name, Arcturus, making his initials R.A.B… rather *interesting* don’t you think?

__Phineas Nigellus Black__
 
This one isn’t so hidden... he was probably one of the only characters that always went by their full name. The former unpopular headteacher (and current Hogwarts portrait) was Phineas Nigellus Black.

Which wizarding family would you belong to?

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## If you enjoy a bit of chaos… you would be a Weasley
Are you somebody that hates to be bored? Do you enjoy being in the company of lots of different people? Do you not mind if things are a little loud or high-spirited? Then you would be a member of the Weasley family. With nine members of this red-headed clan, there is always something going on at their family home, The Burrow. Fred and George might be playing one of their practical jokes. Ron might be de-gnoming the garden. Ginny might be breaking into the broom shed to pinch one of her brothers’ broomsticks to practise flying. And Mr Weasley is probably doing some not strictly legal (and definitely secret) tinkering to a Muggle object. If you can throw yourself wholeheartedly into the fun of the Weasley family and embrace the chaos with open arms, then we know you’d fit right in… even if you were lacking their signature ginger hair.

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## If you’re all about reputation and power… you would be a Malfoy
Wealth, influence and appearance were what meant everything to the Malfoy family. Whether it was Lucius Malfoy bragging about his connections to the Minister for Magic, Draco Malfoy showing off about his father buying the whole Slytherin Quidditch team the new Nimbus 2001, or just their massive stately home – they certainly knew how to keep up appearances. Now, we’re not suggesting that you share any of the horrible beliefs of the Malfoy family, but if you’re someone who always like to have the very best of everything – like travelling everywhere first class, owning the best designer clothes, or always having the latest phone, then you would be an excellent fit for this wizarding family.

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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## If you are the creative sort… you would be a Lovegood
The Lovegood family might be regarded as oddballs by the wizarding community – their talk of Crumple-Horned Snorkacks certainly doesn’t help that impression – but there is no doubt that Luna and her father Xenophilius are a highly creative pair. The Quibbler (which Xenophilius edits) is a perfect illustration of their out-the-box thinking and ingenuity. And Luna’s artwork, fashion sense and way of looking at the world just reinforces their originality. If you’re someone who is happiest when pursuing something creative, whether that’s painting, writing, drawing, music, drama or anything that involves using your imagination, then you would make an excellent Lovegood. We can just see you having the time of your life discussing innovative ways to rid yourself of Wrackspurts while fashioning an excellent new pair of radish earrings.

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Luna and Xenophilius Lovegood doing an eccentric dance together at Bill and Fleur's wedding

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## If you have an entrepreneurial side… you would be a Potter
Harry’s family fortune didn’t come from nowhere. It turns out that the Potters were a rather industrious bunch. The first known Potter, Linfred ‘the Potterer’, was a twelfth-century wizard whose experiments not only laid the foundations for the Potter family fortune, but also resulted in remedies that eventually evolved into potions such as Skele-gro and Pepperup Potion (that are still used in wizarding society today). There was also Harry’s grandfather Fleamont Potter who quadrupled the family fortune by creating Sleekeazy’s Hair Potion. If you have a flair for coming up with weird and wonderful inventions, you would fit right in with the Potter family. Perhaps you already have a small business that you’re immensely proud of or are busy designing the next greatest since sliced bread. Whatever your big idea, they would be sure to encourage it.

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## If you are known to be secretive… you would be a Dumbledore 
The Dumbledores were a family that liked to keep things private. Albus certainly never shared more than he absolutely had to and was known to deflect personal questions. For instance, when Harry asked what he saw in the Mirror of Erised, his answer of socks was very suspicious indeed. He wasn’t the only family member to have this trait, his parents also liked to keep tight-lipped about plenty of things, such as the condition of their daughter Ariana. We imagine that you would be an excellent member of this family if you’re also the mysterious type, who reveals very little about themselves and remains an enigma – even to those closest to them. 

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## If you are brave… you would be a Longbottom
The Longbottom family were certainly Gryffindors for a reason – they were all incredibly brave. There were Frank and Alice, two talented Aurors who were members of the Order of the Phoenix that fought valiantly to help defeat Voldemort. Not to mention their son Neville, who turned out to be courageous to his core. He was a key member of Dumbledore’s Army and was able to pull the sword of Gryffindor from the Sorting Hat… which is not a small feat. The Longbottoms were also a family that had to face their fair share of adversity when Frank and Alice were tortured into insanity by the Death Eaters. Yet Neville and his grandmother pulled together and were resilient in the wake of such tragedy. If the Longbottoms were the family for you, then we imagine you’re known for you strength and resolve. You do what is necessary and what is right – despite the risks – and you face fear head on. 

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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2

Pick your favourite Harry Potter film and we’ll tell you which character you’re most like

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## If your favourite film is *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*, then you’re like Harry Potter 
When he was only eleven years old, [Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) was plunged into an entirely different world… and he thrived. Yes, anything was better than being with the Dursleys but that doesn’t take away from what an achievement that was. It would be overwhelming for anyone! But he entered the wizarding world with curiosity, courage and an open mind. We reckon this is why *Philosopher’s Stone* is your favourite film. You are just like Harry. You embrace new beginnings, are not afraid to expand your horizons and you don’t shy away from a challenge – even when you’re terrified. 

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Harry stood outside in his Hogwarts robes and Gryffindor scarf with Hedwig perched on his arm.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

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and the Philosopher's Stone 

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## We think you’re like Hagrid if *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets* is your top pick
[Giant spiders](/fact-file/creatures/acromantula), an [even bigger serpent](/fact-file/creatures/basilisk) and throw in a few [Cornish Pixies](/fact-file/creatures/cornish-pixie) for good measure – it can only be *Chamber of Secrets*! This film had its fair share of brilliant – and most often dangerous – creatures. You know who else had an affinity for all creatures great and small? [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid). And if this is your favourite Harry Potter film (because how can a film with a [phoenix](/fact-file/creatures/phoenix) swooping in to save the day not take the top spot), we think you’re just like him. You’re an animal lover who sees the beauty in all creatures – especially those with the not-so-stellar reputations. You’re the type of person who would rescue a wasp, even after it had stung you, because you think they’re just misunderstood… which is *very* Hagrid.

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Hagrid in Knockturn Alley from the Chamber of Secrets 

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## If *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* is your jam, then you’re just like Remus Lupin
When you think of the first Harry Potter film that truly introduced you to the darker side of the wizarding world, *Prisoner of Azkaban* should spring to mind. It embraced the themes of fear, betrayal and injustice. But it was also a film about redemption, truth and the importance of second chances. It straddled both sides of the world and this is perfectly reflected in [Remus Lupin](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/remus-lupin). As this is your favourite film, we think you are just like Harry’s best [Defence Against the Darks Arts](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/defence-against-the-dark-arts) teacher. Lupin had learned how to embrace the shadows but not let them drown out his light – even when those around him were determined to see the worst in him. This is a talent you share. Despite what life throws at you, you maintain your kind, decent and intelligent personality. 

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## Cedric Diggory is the character you are most like if *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* is your go to film
With *Goblet of Fire* focusing on a tournament that led to eternal glory, there were many moments where sportsmanship, honour and resilience took centre stage. As someone who embodies these values, this is your favourite of the Harry Potter films. It also makes you similar to [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) – the humble [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) who inspired others. Like him, we imagine you are a fantastic role model. Perhaps you are the boss that everyone wants to have – you demonstrate how to be a leader without letting ego get in the way. Maybe you are the musician that everyone admires – you show the importance of hard work and not just relying on talent alone. Or you are often the best-looking person in the room – but your kindness is what truly makes you magnetic. You and Cedric are two peas in a pod, and you love seeing this unpretentious, yet charming, king have his moment in the sun.


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A close up of Cedric Diggory who is smiling.

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and the Goblet of Fire

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## You are most like Luna Lovegood if *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* is your favourite film
The fifth Harry Potter film was full of excellent drama, heartbreaking moments and the introduction of the most unique character in the story, [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood). While many of her peers didn’t understand her (calling her horrid names like ‘Loony’) she was a breath of fresh air. Most importantly, whether she was introducing Harry to [Thestrals](/fact-file/creatures/thestral) or providing comforting words of wisdom to him instead of going to the leaving feast, she was an excellent friend. We think this is why you adore this film – you see yourself in her. You are the eccentric with a heart of gold. Like Luna, many see you as a peculiar – so it took you a little longer to find your people. Once you did? You found lifelong friends that accepted you for exactly who you are.


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Luna sitting in a carriage holding The Quibbler upside down

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## If your favourite film is *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*, then you’re most like Draco Malfoy
*Half-Blood Prince* is the Harry Potter film that fully welcomes its melancholy energy. The dark tones, the teenage angst and the sense of impending doom means this is the film for all the tortured souls out there. And we happen to think that if this is your favourite film, then you probably never left your emo phase. Deep feelings, heavy guitars and dark colours are your jam. You know who was that vibe? [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy). This is the character that you are most like. With his black suit, new tattoo and impossible mission, you and he are matching misunderstood souls.

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## We think you have Hermione Granger vibes if *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One* is your favourite 
The seventh Harry Potter film will always be your favourite. You love all the clever schemes, problem-solving and the wonder that is [Hermione’s beaded bag](/fact-file/objects/hermiones-beaded-bag). How can one tiny bag literally contain everything you could possibly need to hunt [Horcruxes](/fact-file/objects/horcrux)? It’s magic! Anyway, we think this film speaks to you because you are just like the cleverest witch of her age. People rely on you because of your intelligent nature and attention to detail. You’re always the person with a plan – which you don’t really mind because deep down you know that if you left it to someone else, it wouldn’t be quite as good. You will always choose to rewatch the seventh film because this was [Hermione’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) (and all organised people’s) moment to shine. Let’s face it, Harry and [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) would never have come close to defeating [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) if it wasn’t for her.

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Hermione Granger standing in her childhood bedroom looking sad

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## Neville Longbottom is who you are most like is *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part Two* is your top choice 
The conclusion of this epic story was, well, epic! Good defeating evil. Love conquering all. The wizarding world being saved. But that’s not why it is your favourite film. It’s yours because it’s a story where the underdog triumphs. And who is the ultimate underdog? [Neville Longbottom](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom). He grew from the nervous, young boy whose family worried he might be a [Squib](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/squibs) to the de facto [DA](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dumbledores-army) leader who destroyed a Horcrux and faced Voldemort. If you’re drawn to this story, we think you’re like Neville. You’ve had your fair share of knockbacks – whether that was not getting your dream job, being on a losing sports team or just feeling as though people don’t expect you to succeed. But you don’t give up. You dust yourself off, try again and you achieve your dreams. People are wrong to underestimate you – just like they were wrong to underestimate Neville Longbottom.  

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Harry Potter 101: The Malfoy family

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

## The Malfoys
This ancient wizarding family is so old that the first [Malfoy](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-malfoys) arrived in Britain with William the Conqueror! With the name Malfoy meaning ‘bad faith’ in old French, you probably won’t be surprised to hear that they were known for being a slippery bunch – courting power and wealth.

Speaking of which, the land in Wiltshire, where [Malfoy Manor](/fact-file/locations/malfoy-manor) (a very grand home indeed) was built, was given to Armand by the King himself – no doubt in thanks for some rather dubious dealings. It has remained in the Malfoy family for generations. 

Although known for being believers in [pure-blood](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/pure-blood) supremacy (and the Malfoys really do believe in their superiority), historically, this wasn’t the full picture. They were willing to associate with *certain* [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) – as long as they were rich, influential and they got something from them. 

Once anti-Muggle sentiment grew in the wizarding world (and the Statute of Secrecy came into play), their knack for self-preservation kicked in and they denied ever being associated with them at all. 

A family with great ambition and a talent for cunning, you probably won’t be surprised to hear that they have strong ties to [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) house.


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## Notable Malfoy family members

__Draco Malfoy__
 
Probably the first Malfoy that springs to mind, [Draco](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) was the only child of Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy and grew up believing that as a pure-blood, wizard and member of the Malfoy family, he was truly special. A Slytherin in the same year as [Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter), he was furious to not be given the same royal treatment as the Boy Who Lived. [Prefect](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/prefect), [Seeker](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/seeker) for the Slytherin Quidditch team, [Inquisitorial Squad](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/inquisitorial-squad) member, and school bully – he was a complex character. Privileged and often unpleasant but in for a rude awakening.

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Draco Malfoy with his hands on his hips, looking defiant in the Slytherin Common Room of Hogwarts castle.

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__Lucius Malfoy__
 
The father that Draco idolised, previous [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) school governor and wizard known for being a former [Death Eater](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/death-eaters)... [Lucius](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lucius-malfoy) was a Malfoy through and through. With family wealth and influential connections, he had a lot of sway in the wizarding world – though he preferred to be the power behind the throne rather than the one on it. That way, he could get what he wanted but could also deny any responsibility or involvement if things went awry.

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__Narcissa Malfoy__
 
A pure-blood with notable lineage and strong ties to Slytherin house, it’s not surprising that [Narcissa](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/narcissa-malfoy) ended up marrying someone like Lucius Malfoy. As a member of the [Black family](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-black-family), she was from a long line of [Dark](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dark-arts) witches and wizards (with a few exceptions like her sister, Andromeda). Narcissa was prejudiced and had an inflated sense of superiority – though it was never confirmed that she was a Death Eater (unlike her other sister, [Bellatrix](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/bellatrix-lestrange)). The one thing she valued above all, was the love she had for her son, Draco.

Narcissa Malfoy Fact File Image narcissa-malfoy_2_1800x1248

Fact File narcissa-malfoy_2_1800x1248

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__Scorpius Malfoy__
 
The son of Draco Malfoy and Astoria Greengrass, [Scorpius](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/scorpius-malfoy) was a different kind of Malfoy entirely. Best friends with a [Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-potter) of all people, his ambitions were geared more towards how much he could learn rather than how many people he could influence. A kind bookworm with a sweet tooth, he was an example of what Slytherin could be.

Scorpius Malfoy Fact File Image scorpius-malfoy_1_1800x1248

Fact File scorpius-malfoy_1_1800x1248

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__Astoria Malfoy__
 
After leaving Hogwarts, Astoria Greengrass married Draco Malfoy. Despite coming from one of the families considered part of the ‘Sacred Twenty-Eight’ her in-laws were rather disappointed with their daughter-in-law. This was largely thanks to her abandoning the worldview held by many pure-blood families and embracing a more accepting one.

__Armand Malfoy__
 
As we mentioned earlier, Armand was the Malfoy who was part of the invading Norman army and given land (seized from local landowners) as thanks for his shady services. He perfectly encapsulated how the Malfoy family prized status, wealth and proximity to power – even more than pure-blood ideals.

__Nicholas Malfoy__
 
When the Black Death struck, it gave Nicholas Malfoy the opportunity to dispatch of any of his particularly irritable Muggle tenants. As seems to be the way with this family, he got away with it and escaped censure by the Wizards’ Council.

WB-HP8-narcissa-draco-lucius-web-landscape

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__Septimus Malfoy__
 
This was a wizard with such great influence at the [Ministry of Magic](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) in the late eighteenth century, that people started to believe that the actual [Minister for Magic](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/minister-for-magic), Unctuous Osbert, wasn’t in charge at all…

__Abraxas Malfoy__
 
Father of Lucius and grandfather to Draco, this was yet another wily and influential Malfoy who controlled things from the shadows. He was thought to be part of a sneaky plot to prematurely oust the first [Muggle-born](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggle-borns) Minister for Magic, Nobby Leach, in 1968. Of course, nothing was ever proven. 

__The first Lucius Malfoy__
 
Before the Statute of Secrecy came into being, one Malfoy had royal ambitions. The first Lucius Malfoy was said to want to marry Queen Elizabeth I. When she spurned him, he jinxed her and that was (supposedly) why she remained opposed to marriage for the rest of her life.

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Narcissa in between Lucius and Draco at the final battle 

The importance of tea in the wizarding world 

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Ron, Hermione, Harry and Fang sit in Hagrid's hut

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The ubiquity of cups of tea in the wizarding world is surely an inevitability. After all, Harry’s story is set in the UK, and Hogwarts is famously extremely cold. But the beloved beverage snuck up time-and-time again in the stories in both mundane and magical ways. 

 ‘Er – shall I make a cup of tea?’ said Ron. 
Harry stared at him. 
‘It’s what my mum does whenever someone’s upset,’ Ron muttered, shrugging. 

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## Hagrid swears by them  

Rubeus Hagrid has a lot of creature comforts, and we’re not just talking about the creatures. Every time Harry, Ron and Hermione visited his friendly hut, a giant, steaming mug of tea would usually be waiting for them. And due to Hagrid’s generous stature, we were always pleased to see that his crockery was equally large. After all, what’s better than a cup of tea than a very, very big cup of tea? 

Upon Harry’s first week at Hogwarts, it was actually a heartening offer of a cup of tea at his house that really kicked off his friendship with Hagrid. This simple beverage really can be the glue that holds a relationship together.

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and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## A cup of tea can sometimes have an ulterior motive 

On a couple of occasions, a ‘cup of tea’ was basically an excuse for two characters to meet up and set the world to rights. Take Harry’s visit to [Professor Lupin’s](https://www.harrypotter.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/remus-lupin) office in *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaba*n. After a wobbly beginning with his new Defence Against the Dark Arts professor, an offer of a cup of tea in his office was Lupin’s way of telling Harry he had his back.  

Of course, we would soon find out about Lupin’s childhood friendships with Harry’s dad and [Sirius Black](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sirius-black) – so we like to think this cup of tea was Lupin’s way of finally getting to connect with his old best friend’s son. 

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## And it’s an excellent excuse to get out of an awkward situation 

The power of a cup of tea is unparalleled – you can use it as an excuse to visit someone, to get away from your desk for five minutes – or even get out of uncomfortable social situations! It is, once again, the British way. 

One amusing instance of this is during the house-cleaning mission at [Grimmauld Place](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/locations/number-twelve-grimmauld-place) where one room has been inhabited with ‘spiders the size of saucers’. Curiously, Ron disappears from this scene to make a cup of tea for an hour and a half. 

Another amusing scenario – again with the Weasleys – reveals the extreme usefulness of a cup of tea as an escape route. During Arthur’s recovery at [St Mungo’s](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/locations/st-mungos-hospital), Molly is incensed to discover he’s decided to experiment with Muggle stitches for his injuries. Everyone else, on the other hand, is suddenly extremely thirsty. 


 ‘Well … well, I don’t know whether you know what – what stitches are?’ 
‘It sounds as though you’ve been trying to sew your skin back together,’ said Mrs Weasley with a snort of mirthless laughter, ‘but even you, Arthur, wouldn’t be that stupid –’ 
‘I fancy a cup of tea, too,’ said Harry, jumping to his feet. 

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix 

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## Or act as a peace offering? 

Sometimes a cup of tea can just be a cup of tea. But sometimes, it can be representative of so much more.  

One particularly poignant scene in the final book saw Harry accidentally tread on a full cup of tea outside his Privet Drive bedroom. At first, Harry assumed this was another of Dudley’s booby traps. After years of torment from his cousin, that would make the most sense, right? 

Later, he discovered that no... no, Dudley had actually... made him a cup of tea. After Harry had rescued him from a traumatic [Dementor attack](https://www.harrypotter.com/fact-file/creatures/dementor) earlier in the series, his cousin had tried to, heaven forbid, make amends. After an entire childhood of bullying Harry, this innocent cuppa was a huge moment in Dudley’s development, paving the path for an even bigger one: a handshake. 

Although the cousins would never be bosom buddies, we couldn’t help but be slightly touched by this surprising olive branch. And by the time we reach the events of *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*, we learn the pair kept in touch into adulthood. Who’d have thought that Big D had it in him?

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## Then there’s the matter of tea leaves  

Of course, it wouldn’t be the wizarding world if the most seemingly innocuous of things didn’t carry a magical quality. For wizards and witches, tea leave reading is an ancient art of Divination, although some find the practice [somewhat woolly.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/in-defence-of-divination)  

[You can read about the different types of tea leave symbols here.](https://www.harrypotter.com/features/every-tea-leaves-symbol-from-harrys-divination-class)

Unfortunately, having Professor Trelawney as a professor in the subject meant that Harry's tea leaves were always the most dire of outcomes - with the soggy leaves often forecasting his impending doom. 

This is perhaps an instance where a hug in a mug is perhaps not so comforting. But for the most part, it tends to solve most of life’s problems. 

Harry Potter 101: wizarding plants

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A screaming mandrake seedling in a Herbology Lesson 

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

With [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) a core subject at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts), it’s easy to assume that there are lots of weird and wonderful magical plants – and that assumption would be correct! Yet, as well as plants that you can only find in the wizarding world, witches and wizards also have a deep understanding of the magical properties of plants [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) grow too. We’ve rounded these all up…

__Asphodel__ 
 
We’re kicking off our list with asphodel – a plant present in the Muggle world too. Yet, we doubt Muggles used its powdered root to make a sleeping potion so powerful it is known as the [Draught of Living Death](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/the-draught-of-living-death).

__Belladonna__ 
 
Oh look, another plant that is found in both magical and Muggle worlds. We might know belladonna as a highly poisonous plant, but it was also a potion ingredient used by witches and wizards. Probably quite frequently too – seeing as [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley) had to top up [Harry’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) supply for his potion-making kit before his fourth year began. 

__Bouncing Bulbs__
 
You can probably guess what these are – plant bulbs that bounce! You need to make sure you have a good grip on them though… they wriggle. Harry discovered that in a tense Herbology lesson when one bounced so enthusiastically it smacked him right in the face – ouch! 

__Bubotuber__
 
Described by Harry as the ‘ugliest plants he had seen’, [Bubotubers](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/bubotubers) resemble ‘thick black giant slugs, protruding vertically out of the soil’. To add to this gross visual, they also have swellings that move and are full of pus. Yes, we did say pus. Though don’t judge a book by its cover, these plants are as useful as they are disgusting. The pus is valuable and when distilled, can be used an effective cure for the most stubborn forms of acne. Though undiluted, it can cause horrible sores on your skin – as [Hermione Granger](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) painfully discovered. 

__Daisy__
 
In the Muggle world, daisies are considered weeds – if rather pretty. However, in the magical world, the roots of a daisy are used as an ingredient in the [Shrinking Solution](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/shrinking-solution) recipe. 

__Devil’s Snare__
 
Devilish by name and devilish by nature, this is one of the more dangerous plants of the wizarding world – thanks to its tendency to trap victims in its tentacle-like vines. Though, as Hermione remembered in the nick of time, there is a way to escape its deadly grip. [Devil’s Snare](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/devils-snare) thrives in the dark and damp and will recoil at light and warmth. A well-placed flame will see a sharpish retreat.

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Harry and Hermione are looking up at the Devil's Snare. Hermione is pointing her wand at it.

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__Dittany__ 
 
Another plant species that straddles both the magical and Muggle worlds. In the wizarding world, the healing properties of dittany are very valuable – the Essence of Dittany potion can help to quickly heal wounds and can even reduce scarring. It was very lucky that Hermione had a bottle in her amazing, beaded bag when [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) Splinched himself. 

__Fanged Geranium__
 
We all know geraniums as beautiful and vibrant flowers but in the magical world, they have more of a *bite*. Yep, these were geraniums with teeth – one even bit Harry in his Herbology [O.W.L](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/o-w-l-s).

__Flitterbloom__
 
We don’t know much about this magical plant – except that it bears a resemblance to Devil’s Snare. However, this one is nowhere near as deadly, so it is important to not get them muddled up. 

__Flutterby Bush__
 
There’s nothing quite as peaceful or serene as watching leaves ripple on a gentle breeze. With a Flutterby Bush, this is a permanent occurrence. An attractive bush whose leaves flutter constantly – no wind needed! 

__Fluxweed__
 
This plant was one of the ingredients that could be found in [Polyjuice Potion](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/polyjuice-potion). According to J.K. Rowling, it represents ‘the mutability of the body as it changed into another’.

__Gillyweed__
 
How does a human hold their breath underwater for an entire hour? Well, one way to do that is by eating [Gillyweed](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/gillyweed) – vividly described as looking like a ball of ‘slimy, greyish green rat tails’. When eaten raw, this magical plant causes a person to grow gills and webbed hands and feet. Let’s just say if you every find yourself in a [Triwizard Tournament](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament), it might be useful to keep some on hand.

Gillyweed Fact File Image gillyweed_1_1800x1248

Fact File gillyweed_1_1800x1248

harry-potter-101-wizarding-plants-text-section-3

__Gurdyroot__
 
This plant resembles a green onion and is rather popular with the Lovegood family – they love a cup of their homemade Gurdyroot infusion. We’d describe it as an *acquired* taste… Harry, Ron and Hermione would call it disgusting. 

__Hellebore__
 
Another flower admired by Muggles and magical folk, two drops of the syrup of hellebore is needed to create a [Draught of Peace](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/the-draught-of-peace).

__Honking daffodil__
 
Daffodils in the Muggle world are bright, yellow and a reminder spring has sprung. What they aren’t is noisy. The same can’t be said for their wizarding counterparts – or at least for the honking daffodils found in [Professor Sprout’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) greenhouse.

__Knotgrass__
 
Found in both the magical and Muggle worlds, knotgrass is another Polyjuice Potion ingredient and supposedly represents being tied to another person.

__Lovage__
 
In the Muggle world, lovage is a herb used in cooking and is even known to have medicinal properties. In the magical world? It is an ingredient that can often be found in Confusing or Befuddlement Draughts as it appears to be effective for ‘inflaming the brain’.

__Mallowsweet__
 
When [Firenze](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/firenze) took the post of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher at Hogwarts, he bought a unique perspective – thanks to being a centaur. Through him, we learnt that the centaurs often burn herbs and leaves – Mallowsweet included – observing the fumes and flames in an attempt to gain insight into the future through. 

__Mandrake__
 
While [Mandrakes](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mandrake) exist in the Muggle world, we doubt they are quite as memorable as the wizarding version. These shrubs, which resemble crying babies when young, have a wail that proves to be fatal once they reach maturity. Despite their deadly disposition, they are also used for healing and are a key ingredient in the [Restorative Draught](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mandrake-restorative-draught) which cures Petrification. Complex but useful – just don’t forget your earmuffs!

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