“I Will Have Order!”

Posted on January 21, 2013 by Rachael Knodel

Dolores – Of Latin origin. Means “lady of sorrows or pain” (psychological or physical). In Greek, “doleros” means “deceitful.” In Spanish, “dolor” means “to have pain.”

Umbridge – Sounds like “umbrage,” which is “a feeling of anger caused by an offense.” In Latin, “umbra” means “shadow, shade, or ghost” and can also be interpreted as “jealous or suspicious of another” or “standing in one’s light or way.” The phrase “to take umbridge” means to “cause offense and make trouble.” She certainly does this for Harry. The plural “umbrae” means “shadows”. In this context it can be used as shadowing or following other individuals – just how Umbridge does with the Ministry of Magic.

Umbridge…probably my least favorite character in the entire series. Why would I write about her then? Well, I decided I would analyze as many characters as I could and I haven’t done an evil person in a while. While Voldemort is obviously the villain in the series, you almost can’t help but hate Umbridge more. She preys on young children for no apparent reason. Voldemort, I guess, sort of has his reasons and motives and such, but Umbridge…she’s just AWFUL. I HATE HER. I honestly wanted to punch her myself when she was hurting Harry and others. Also, I hate how in the movies she catches like everyone in the DA. It’s not supposed to happen like that. But whatever. Imelda Staunton did a wonderful job portraying Umbridge, which kinda makes me hate her, my bad. So much rage at her.

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This is my favorite part. The names reveal so much, if only you knew this while reading…anyway, Dolores is definitely the lady of pain, she is deceitful (she goes against Fudge, who she adores), and she causes a lot of pain. She’s crazy. Umbridge is always angry at something and finds everything offensive. (My favorite part dealing with her is when Dumbledore’s office seals her out. SO GREAT. I also love when Ron makes clicking noises in the hospital wing and she freaks out, thinking it’s the centaurs. SO GOOD.) She’s definitely suspicious of everyone who isn’t her little pet and I feel like she was a bit jealous of some people’s power over her, hence her making Fudge increase her power.

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I always forget this somehow, but when I do remember, I wonder about it a lot. The beginning of Order of the Phoenix is Harry getting attacked by Dementors – sent there by Umbridge. Why? Well, I guess it’s because she wanted to see him expelled, but I don’t understand why she hated him so much. After he starts super sassing her, I can sort of see that, but before they even meet she’s got all this angst against him. I don’t get it personally. Maybe some more information will be revealed when we get there in Pottermore.

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This is probably my favorite book for Harry. (Even though he’s the main character, he really isn’t my favorite.) He gets SO angry every time Umbridge denies the truth, and sometimes he is just so rude that you have to laugh. Especially imagining Umbridge’s reactions to it. Also, I love that she’s described as toad-like.

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If you really want, you can read more about Umbridge here…

Here are some quotes (well, more things that show Umbridge getting what she deserves):

“Using defensive spells? Why, I can’t imagine any situation arising in my classroom that would require you to use a defensive spell, Miss Granger. You surely aren’t expecting to be attacked during class? I do not wish to criticize the way things have been run in this school, but you have been exposed to some very irresponsible wizards in this class, very irresponsible indeed – not to mention extremely dangerous half-breeds.”

“Cheers,” whispered George, wiping tears of laughter from his face. “Oh, I hope she tries Vanishing them next…they multiply by ten every time you try…”
The fireworks continued to burn and spread all over the school that afternoon. Though they caused plenty of disruption, the other teachers did not seem to mind them very much.
“Dear, dear,” said Professor McGonagall sardonically, as one of the dragons soared around her classroom, emitting loud bangs and exhaling flame. “Miss Brown, would you mind running along to the headmistress and informing her that we have an escaped firework in our classroom?”
“Thank you so much, Professor!” said Professor Flitwick in his squeaky little voice. “I could have got rid of the sparklers myself, of course, but I wasn’t sure whether I had the authority…”
Beaming, he closed the classroom door in Umbridge’s snarling face.

“We won’t be seeing you,” Fred told Professor Umbridge, swinging his leg over his broomstick.
“Yeah, don’t bother to keep in touch,” said George, mounting his own.
Fred looked around at the assembled students, and at the silent, watchful crowd.
“If anybody fancies buying a Portable Swamp, as demonstrated upstairs, come to number ninety-three Diagon Alley – Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes,” he said in a loud voice. “Our new premises!”
“Special discounts to Hogwarts students who swear they’re going to use our products to get rid of this old bat,” said George, pointing at Professor Umbridge.
“STOP THEM!” shrieked Umbridge, but it was too late. As the Inquisitorial Squad closed in, Fred and George kicked off from the floor, shooting fifteen feet into the air, the iron peg swinging dangerously below. Fred looked across the hall at the poltergeist bobbing on his level above the crowd.
“Give her hell from us, Peeves.”

Umbridge: Let me make this quite plain. You have been told that a certain Dark Wizard is at large once again. This is a lie. Harry: It’s not a lie! I saw him. I fought him. Umbridge: Detention, Mr. Potter! Harry: So according to you, Cedric Diggory dropped dead OF HIS OWN ACCORD. Umbridge: Cedric Diggory’s death was a tragic accident. Harry: It was murder! Voldemort killed him! You must know! Umbridge: Enough!

I WILL have order!

“You’re Just As Sane As I Am.”

Posted on December 10, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Luna – The Roman goddess of the moon. “Luna” means “moon” in Latin, Romanian and Italian. In Romanian, it also translates to “month.” The word “lunatic” is also derived from the word “lunar,” as it was believed in old times that strange or odd behavior was caused by the moon. “Luna” is a term for “silver” in alchemy.

Oh, Luna, where shall I start? She is honestly one of my absolute favorite characters (probably second to Snape). One of the many reasons I love Luna is because of her confidence. Sure, the other kids tease her, but does she change who she is? Heck no. That’s so inspiring to me and so many others. Luna made me realize that not everyone has to accept you, but as long as you have those few really special friends who are always there for you, that’s what really matters. Growing up, my sisters and I teased each other a lot, and sometimes it hurt more than I let on. But once I was introduced to Luna all those years ago, she helped me accept my imperfections and really embrace them. That’s why Evanna Lynch was the perfect Luna. Have you read Evanna’s story about how Jo helped her overcome her anorexia? It’s beautiful and makes you realize that Jo is different than most celebrities, and people for that matter (another reason to love her).

I was rather upset when I couldn’t find the meaning behind Lovegood on the website I usually find the names, but I realized, it’s kind of obvious. Luna (and Xenophilius) loves everything weird and abnormal, and is genuinely a good person. They both would do anything for those they love, no matter what. Clearly, Luna is a little bit out there, but, again, it’s what I love about her and what makes her so unique. And her name clearly deals with that (as always). The silver has to do with Luna’s eyes. She is described as having silvery-grey eyes, and silver not only has to do with alchemy, which is sort of odd in itself, but the moon. I never used to appreciate how much effort Jo put into the names until I came across this website. Just going through the first few is amazing. I love Jo so much!!!

I love the contrast between Hermione and Luna. Normally, when characters are so opposite, one is good and one is bad, but in this case, they’re both good. I just love that they are both important to Harry, but one helps with logic and the other with his faith. When Hermione has a problem, she resorts to logic and forgets about just having faith. On the other hand, Luna relies solely on her faith, disregarding what normal people would consider logic. I think that makes Luna so interesting, her quirkiness. She always makes you want to laugh, and she was always so intelligent and her quotes are some of my absolute favorites.

I think Luna’s faith in the things that aren’t easily proved helps Harry more than he realizes. Though Harry never really knew Dumbledore’s story or motives, I think Harry learned that you don’t always have to know all the details to trust someone; sometimes, you just have to have blind faith. That’s one of the most important lessons that Luna taught Harry.

I loved when Harry asked Luna to Slughorn’s party (because he couldn’t ask Ginny). I thought it was so sweet, and I was upset that other characters thought it was weird. It showed that Harry didn’t care about other people’s opinions and that he was going to be friends with who he wanted to be friends with. I think it was also significant that Luna told Harry about thestrals. It connected them in a way that no one else would understand. Death of a loved one is hard enough to deal with, and I think because both lost their mothers, it really made that connection so much stronger. I dislike when people complain about Harry not seeing the thestrals prior to his 5^th year, but I think it makes sense. (I also dislike when people get mad at things that J.K. did because she obviously had a reason.) Harry was 1 when his parents died, and I don’t think at the age of 1 he could have truly comprehended that his mother had just died in front of him. However, in his mind, Cedric’s death is entirely his fault. Harry was being polite and tried to let them both win because he didn’t want to be the only champion because he didn’t think it would be fair. Because Harry did the right thing, Cedric died for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. I’m not saying that Luna blames herself for her mother’s death, but in a way, I think we all blame ourselves when we lose someone. Plus, thestrals are really weird. Luna is really weird. It just works.

I honestly believe with all my heart that Luna is the epitome of the Ravenclaw saying “Wit beyond measure is a man’s greatest treasure.” Rowling later revealed that Luna went on to become a magizoologist, discovering many creatures that no one had known about previously. I think that shows just how intelligent Luna really is. Not everyone has the guts to follow their dreams and faith like she does. Luna is also intelligent in another way. She knows what’s really important in life: family and friends. It doesn’t matter that people call her Loony, nor that they think she’s insane. All that matters is that she knows what’s important to her. Again, she is the epitome of another quote, “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” Wise words from Dr. Seuss.

I saw this post on tumblr the other day and somehow it completely grabs the essence of Luna in just a few short words.

One thing that I liked better in the movies than the books (shocker, I know) is that they sort of shipped Neville and Luna, and I think they would have been perfect together because they were both outcasts who ended up having huge impact in Harry’s life and in the Battle of Hogwarts. Go underdogs!

Luna is probably one of the most influential characters Jo created and I know Luna is definitely part of the reason that I’m a proud Ravenclaw.

“Always”

Posted on December 3, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Severus – Sever means “to cut off.” Snape appears to have “cut off” his ties with the Dark Lord through the first five books, and then with Dumbledore and the Order in Half-Blood Prince. “Severe” means “cruel, strict” – two characteristics that accurately describe the Potions Professor. Sounds very similiar to the Latin word “servus,” meaning “servant.” Is he still a servant of Voldemort’s? In ancient history, Lucius Septimius Severus restored stability to the Roman Empire after the tumultuous reign of Emperor Commodus (See Albus) and the civil wars that erupted in the wake of Commodus’ murder. To read more on this story, go here. The name Severus is also mentioned in Mansfield Park by Jane Austen, a favorite book of J.K. Rowling. Additionally, a Saint Severus of Alexandria (Egypt) was martyred along with a Saint Peter and a Saint Leucius for publicly proclaiming the faith around 309 C.E. Severus, Peter, and Lucius – quite a coincidence!

Snape – A town in England. Also based after a person J.K. Rowling knew.

Snape is such a fascinating character. As usual, I LOVE HIM. Alan Rickman was also the perfect Severus Snape. And for those of you, crazy as you may be, who disagree, the proof is simple: J.K. Rowling told Rickman Snape’s entire life story before she had even written the 7^th book, before filming began for Philosopher’s Stone. I used to loathe Snape with the same intensity that he loathed Harry. When the 7^th book was released, and I got to the part when Snape gives Harry his memories, I had to close the book and process. Jo had done it again, made you believe something so intensely, never giving any clues besides Dumbledore’s continual faith, and twisted it completely. I was so excited to learn about more of Snape’s past. I knew it was going to be a part of the book because Borders (moment of silence for my favorite store that went bankrupt), and I’m sure other stores as well, had book marks saying “Severus Snape, Friend… Or Foe?” on alternate sides. I was so convinced that Snape was evil, especially after he had killed Dumbledore. I couldn’t see any other explanation. (I’m honestly so excited for J.K. to reveal more about Snape’s life on Pottermore.) This post is going to be so hard for me to finish because I just have so many feels about Snape. Currently, I’m rereading Harry Potter for the umpteenth time and I’m on Chamber of Secrets, and I love picking up on little subtle clues that Jo’s left about him. Some things suddenly make so much more sense (this is true with pretty much every major character). This is one of my favorites:

Some of his first words to Harry were almost like a subtle apology.

I never really appreciated all that Jo put into the works. I mean, I’ve always loved Harry Potter (in fact, it’s the first series that made me love reading, I used to hate it), but the fact that people are still finding things from a book that was published 15 years ago. It’s the series that just keeps on giving. One of the things that I love the most about Snape’s development is that normally, a character appears good, but is actually evil. Snape’s the opposite. Also, normally, there are clues. Maybe I’ve missed them because they’re so subtle, but I don’t think so. The only thing that you have is Dumbledore’s complete faith, which I think makes you doubt Dumbledore and makes you think so much more.

Entirely and absolutely true.
*random fact: Snape has been voted the most loved character in the entire series <3″

At first, I never understood why Jo had to put in another villainous character. I mean, wasn’t the threat of Voldemort enough? AHH. I can’t even put into words the feels that I’m experiencing. Snape just hates Harry purely because he can’t look at Harry and not think of the mistake that he made so many years ago. I think this is the one time that I really understand why it’s so important that Harry has Lily’s eyes. Snape loved Lily, and to see that every day, it makes complete sense why Snape hates Harry. Again, why I love that picture so much.

Though people criticize Snape for being so cruel to students, the two he was the worst to were Harry and Neville. Harry for the reasons above, and Neville because he feels guilty. Snape was the one who overheard the prophecy, and if he hadn’t heard that, Voldemort wouldn’t have known to go after Lily or Harry or the Longbottoms. So, indirectly, it is Snape’s fault that Bellatrix and the others tortured Frank and Alice Longbottom. I think we forget that Snape is good, but he can’t show it because of students like Malfoy who are closely tied to the Dark Lord.

When I found out that Snape loved Lily, it was probably the best Snape moment. I love Snape, and I love what I know of Lily, but I think the people who “ship” Snily (Snape and Lily) are crazy. James and Lily were perfect for each other. Though James wasn’t always perfect, he was always trying to win Lily’s heart. Snape loved her from the moment he saw her, but he ruined it by calling Lily a mudblood. I can’t exactly blame her for disliking him. I think the fact that Lily rejected him led Snape to really start befriending the Slytherin and then go become a Death Eater. He was denied his true love, so I think it was a type of depression in a way. Unfortunately, it took her death to make him see the error of his ways, but it made him turn to Dumbledore, who saved him. (I think this is why Snape and Dumbledore try so hard to save Malfoy in Half-Blood Prince.)

I just had an epiphany while writing this. Snape’s worst memory isn’t because James embarassed him, it’s because it’s when he loses Lily. It’s the day he calls her a mudblood. But of course, we see it through mostly Harry’s perspective, and you don’t know about his feelings yet, so of course you don’t notice that! ANOTHER CLUE! I feel like I’m solving a mystery of sorts…

I couldn’t resist. I’m sorry.

I honestly cannot even handle going into Snape’s name and the meanings. So, why don’t you guys give me your thoughts on his name and the significance? Also, I cannot handle going into the bravery it must have taken to defy the darkest wizard ever.

This was probably the saddest scene, ever:

One last reason to love Snape: the most universal Harry Potter quote:

I apologize if this post makes no sense, but processing how I feel about this topic is so emotional that I really…I just can’t handle it.

“Yer A Wizard, Harry.”

Posted on November 26, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Rubeus – “Rubeus” means “red.” “Ruber” is also Latin for “red,” and can mean “ruddy” – a perfect representation of our favorite gamekeeper.

Hagrid – J.K. Rowling said: “Hagrid is also another old English word meaning if you were Hagrid, it’s a dialect word meaning you’d had a bad night. Hagrid’s a big drinker. He has a lot of bad nights.” Grid was a Norse giantess known for having a terrible temper. “Ha” is a variant of the Old West Norse name element “half.” So, “Ha-Grid” may just mean “Half-Grid” or more notably “Half-Giant.” ” Haggard” can also mean “appearing worn and exhausted, gaunt; wild or distraught in appearance; a disheveled individual.” From the Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy, the Old English term “hag-rid” means “indigestion” (not surprising considering all the weird things Hagrid eats). Found in the exact same paragraph as “Dumbledore.” Coincidence?

I’m pretty sure I say this every post, but I love Hagrid. He really does make Hogwarts home. I love how someone who seems so scary at first glance is really a sweet, caring, loyal, and emotional man. Hagrid is just wonderful. He’s definitely one of my favorite characters. I hated the part in Order of the Phoenix when he’s away with Madame Olympe Maxime trying to make peace with the giants. But Rowling made up for it with his awesome story. I remember reading that and being completely transported to be there with them and it’s just one of those things that I love about the way that J.K. Rowling writes.

As always, the name holds significance. Rubeus meaning red and ruddy is perfect for Hagrid, as it says above. I believe that J.K. often describes him as being ruddy. Hagrid is yet again perfect, whether referencing the quote or the half-giant or haggard or hag-rid. I think it’s rather interesting that Rowling made Hagrid a drinker. I know he had to have some fault, but wouldn’t it be enough that he was blamed for opening the Chamber of Secrets? He had a terrible childhood though, so I guess that’s probably why. His mother left when he was young, his father died when he was at school, he had few friends, he got blamed for opening the Chamber of Secrets, saved by Dumbledore who allowed him to stay on the grounds. Hagrid also was a very close friend of the Potters and so when they were murdered it was very hard on him. Hagrid also has the tendency to blame himself. I think part of the reason Hagrid has such a fascination with animals is that they’ve never let him down and they’ve always been there for him. I think it’s also pretty awesome that hag-rid and Dumbledore (an old English word for bumblebee) are in the same paragraph. It could be where Jo found their names, or it could merely be a coincidence. Or even cooler would be if she found one of them, then the other later and then came across them in Thomas Hardy’s book.

Though this picture isn’t really something that happened in the series, it’s so true. Hagrid revealed the truth about Harry’s life to us all. Hagrid bought Harry his first real birthday present. Hagrid did so much for Harry, year after year. Though Ron was Harry’s best friend, Ron did leave. Hagrid never did. He never could have. (I’m not hating on Ron, I’m just saying, think about it.) Hermione wasn’t friends with Harry at first, though she didn’t seem to loathe him like she loathed Ron. Hagrid is so important to Harry because Hagrid represents Hogwarts to him somehow. Harry knows that Hagrid cares, and vice versa. Hagrid is just so wonderfully wonderful. He really truly does make Hogwarts home.

One of my favorite Hagrid moments is when the trio goes up to him after finding out he’s the new Care of Magical Creatures professor. He’s so shy about it! It’s adorable. I also love and yet hate the part when Harry goes into the Forbidden Forest in the Deathly Hallows. Hagrid is scared for Harry and I hate that Voldemort makes him carry Harry, but no one else would have been right. It was so emotional. I love Hagrid. He’s a big teddy bear.

“We Teachers Are Rather Good at Magic, You Know.”

Posted on November 5, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Minerva – The Roman counterpart to the Greek goddess named Athena. Both women in their respective mythologies represent war, handicraft and practical reason or wisdom.

McGonagall, Professor – The name is Scottish (also written as McGonigle or McGonegal) and is from the Celtic name “Conegal,” which means “the bravest.” The “Mc” in McGonagall means “son of.” The bravery fits well with her first name, Minerva, the goddess of wisdom and war.

I LOVE McGonagall. Clearly, I love a lot of Harry Potter characters, but there’s something awesome about McGonagall, obviously since I’m writing about her. She’s the epitome of a Gryffindor. She’s fiercely brave, loyal to her death. Plus, if you’re awesome and have a Pottermore, you know her background story, which makes you love her so much more.

Also, Maggie Smith was the perfect actress for her. I love the sarcasm. It’s so great. I think my favorite part is when she stands up to Umbridge time and time again. So good.

[Random side thought/note: I watched part of the first season of Downton Abbey and Maggie Smith is once again a stern yet gentle sort of grandmother figure. It’s her destiny.]

Minerva, clearly it’s perfect. The goddess of wisdom? McGonagall is practically the female version of Dumbledore, who is all knowing. She’s also all about practicality. The war part of McGonagall doesn’t really come out until the seventh book, but when it comes out it’s awesome. She’s a BAMF. As soon as Harry says why they are there, McGonagall begins organizing battle techniques. I’m a little bit obsessed with Greek mythology as well, and Athena is more the goddess of strategic war rather than the act itself. This is obvious. Whenever something is going to go down, McGonagall’s there with a plan. Also, backto the wisdom, in Sorcerer’s Stone, her way of defending the stone is a chess game. Does it get any nerdier and logical than chess? Her last name is pretty awesome too with the whole “Conegal” meaning bravest. Obviously J.K. puts so much thought into these characters. It just makes me love and respect her even more.

I don’t know about you, but McGonagall reminds me of a grandmother. I think part of it’s because she’s with Dumbledore when they leave Harry on the Dursleys’ doorstep. She’s just got that air about her and I love it. I think if Dumbledore weren’t gay, he and McGonagall would be Harry’s replacement grandparents. Anyway, McGonagall doesn’t show emotion much, but when she does it’s amazing. One of the most touching scenes is when Harry is “dead” and McGonagall sees him:

““NO!” The scream was terrible because he had never expected or dreamed that Professor McGonagall could make such a sound. He heard another woman laughing nearby, and knew that Bellatrix glorified in McGonagall’s despair. He squinted again for a single second and saw the open doorway filling with people, as the survivors of the battle came out onto the front steps to face their vanquishers and see the truth of Harry’s death for themselves.”

Such a sad moment. And when Harry tells her about Dumbledore’s death. I’m not even sure why McGonagall is so amazing to me, but I just love her. I can’t not love her. I also love that she’s an Animagus. Also, I love her soft spot for the Gryffindor Quidditch team, and Gryffindors in general, especially the trio.

“Tut, Tut, Tut. Naughty, Naughty, You’ll Get Caughty.”

Posted on October 29, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Peeves – “Peeve” means “little devil” or something that “gets on your nerves” (like a pet peeve).

If you’ve never read the books, you’ll have no idea who I’m talking about this entire post, so go sit in a corner and actually read the books. I’m just kidding, I love all Potterheads, whether or not they’ve read all the books or seen all the movies. But Peeves, he’s quite the interesting character. He’s a poltergeist and completely cut out of the movies. When I was younger, I didn’t really realize that he wasn’t, but then when I was rewatching Sorcerer’s Stone after I had just reread the series I realized a great scene was cut out. Harry and Ron (and possibly Hermione) are out and about wandering under Harry’s invisibility cloak when the run into Peeves who immediately assumes (correctly) that it’s students out of bed. In his terror, Harry has one of his few brilliant ideas. He imitates the Bloody Baron (who again you probably wouldn’t know much about without reading), who happens to be the one person who Peeves is terrified of and therefore listens to. Harry tells him the Baron has business in this area and that he should stay away. Problem solved. It’s so great because I always pictured Harry as a little tiny kid with a higher pitched voice and the Bloody Baron as a ruder and meaner version of the Fat Friar (this is probably because he’s the Slytherin House ghost and I assumed everything Slytherin is ruder and meaner than everything else). Now that I think about it more, it might be the night that Draco sets Ron and Harry up for the midnight duel, or it’s when they’re going to save the Stone.

Another great scene that was cut: Fred and George’s last day at Hogwarts. Well, it’s more of a quote than the entire scene, though that it’s pretty great too.

Fred looked across the hall at the poltergeist bobbing on his level above the crowd.
“Give her hell from us, Peeves.”
And Peeves, whom Harry had never seen take an order from a student before, swept his belled hat from his head and sprang to a salute as Fred and George wheeled about to tumultuous applause from the students below and sped out of the open front doors into the glorious sunset.

It’s so great, I wish it had been in the movie. I love Fred and George. Another thing I loved about Peeves was his favoritism of the word “ickle.” It’s not even a word, but it’s hilarious. Also, his songs and poems and weird rhymes. My personal favorite happens to be about Voldemort. “We did it, we bashed them, wee Potter’s the one/and Voldy’s gone mouldy, so let’s have fun!” Never gets old. There were so many others too so if you want to read even more Peeves quotes go to this site. Peeves is also part of making Umbridge’s life hell during Order of the Phoenix. Which makes me love him even more. But I’m a little torn, because he’s so annoying at times, but he’s hilarious.

Normally, I’d go on a mini rant about reasons behind the name, but I think Peeves’ name is pretty obvious. He’s a nuisance. Just like a pet peeve. You can’t get rid of him no matter what (unless you’re the director of the HP movies…). You love him, yet you hate him. He’s definitely a “little devil.”

Fun Fact: Peeves was one of the first characters Rowling created, along with Harry, Ron, Hagrid, and Nearly Headless Nick. She also said that Peeves has been at Hogwarts since its founding – he just “comes with the building” according to Jo.

More fun stuff about Peeves here!

Here’s the link for Peeve’s quotes again!

And if you have a Pottermore account, you can read even more about Peeves in Book 2, Chapter 8.

“I’ve Been Telling Him To Get A Move On For Days…”

Posted on October 22, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Fawkes (Dumbledore’s phoenix) – Guy Fawkes was an English Catholic who, in 1605, tried to blow up the House of Parliament as an act of rebellion against the new Protestant government. In England, November 5th is now known as “Guy Fawkes Day” (or “Bonfire Night”) where Guy Fawkes is burned in effigy. Every year he is resurrected to burn again. It can also be noted that he is known as one of the most infamous traitors in English history.

Fawkes is probably one of my favorite familiars in the series. It’s probably partially because I find phoenixes so fascinating as it is and partially because I love everything Harry Potter (except the evil stuff, but even still have a little bit of love for it, except Umbridge, no love for her). He’s so interesting, and while you would think he wouldn’t be important, he is. J.K. doesn’t create characters (or animals) for any old reason. They’re there for a reason and even you don’t realize it at first, it’s there. But anyway, here are some quick thoughts of mine about Fawkes.

At first, I found it ironic that Fawkes is possibly named after Guy Fawkes. (When I first read Harry Potter, it reminded me of fire for some reason, though I had no idea what Guy Fawkes Day was.) The reason I find it ironic is that Guy Fawkes, as it says above, is pretty much the Benedict Arnold of England. Fawkes is one of the most loyal creatures in the series, probably tied with Hedwig and Dobby. Maybe the reason Jo chose Fawkes was because of Bonfire Night and had nothing to do with Guy Fawkes himself. However, I did some more research. Guy Fawkes Day is somewhat jokingly discussed in England whether it’s celebrating the execution of Guy Fawkes, or his attempt to destroy the government. It’s well known that Dumbledore doesn’t like the Ministry and the way it’s run. Fawkes wasn’t the one who came up with the plot; he just followed through because of his loyalty. Fawkes was described as a loyal man with red hair…hmm…Fawkes the phoenix is a loyal bird, unlike many of his kind, and is red. Convenient. I love Jo’s brilliance. Of course, I could be completely wrong here and she just chose a name at random or for a different reason. But that’s just my thoughts (Harry Potter Wiki says it’s a joke about Guy Fawkes because he “explodes” occasionally. I like my explanation better personally).

Fawkes is pretty important as certain times throughout the series, but, at other times, disappears into the crowd of other characters. Obviously, Fawkes gave two tail feathers which ended up in Harry and Voldemort’s wands. The weird thing is that it was extremely unusual for a phoenix to give more than one feather. Why? Well, because if the two wands were to ever meet, then, you guessed it, Priori Incantatem. (For those of you who have no idea what I’m talking about, it’s what happens in Goblet of Fire when Voldemort and Harry fight in the graveyard and their spells connect and Harry sees images of Cedric, Lily, James, and Frank Bryce. The translation of Priori Incantatem is “previous incantation” so it reproduces the weaker (Voldemort’s) wand’s previous spells. In the book, not only are the “ghosts” present but there is screaming from the Cruciatus Curse that was used on Harry. You can learn more about it here.) Clearly, Jo had it happen on purpose. But why did she pick Fawkes and not just a random phoenix that was never heard from again? Personally, I think it gives more reason why Harry’s wand ultimately defeats Voldemort’s in the graveyard. Because of Harry’s bond to Dumbledore, and through him Fawkes, Harry is a stronger wizard. I’m not sure if that made any sense, but it makes sense in my head. Another time Fawkes plays a big role is in The Chamber of Secrets. Obviously, Harry wouldn’t have defeated the basilisk without Fawkes. Because of Harry’s undying loyalty to Dumbledore, Fawkes comes to his aid. He brings the Sorting Hat, which gives the Sword of Gryffindor, which becomes very important in the 7^th book (more evidence that Jo is a genius). Then, after having basilisk venom in his system, Fawkes provides pretty much the only cure to a basilisk bite, phoenix tears. Yet again, convenient. Then, it’s revealed that phoenixes can carry any amount of weight so they all can get out of the Chamber. More convenience. There are obviously many more instances when Fawkes plays important roles, but you can read about these yourself on the Harry Potter Wiki.

My favorite Fawkes moment, though terribly depressing (and wrongly cut out of the movies), is his lament after Dumbledore’s death. It fits perfectly because everyone is in disbelief and it makes them realize that it really happened. Dumbledore is really gone. So devastating, but yet so perfect.

“Somewhere out in the darkness, a phoenix was singing in a way Harry had never heard before; a stricken lament of terrible beauty. […] Harry felt, as he had felt about the Phoenix song before, that the music was inside him, not without … How long they stood there, listening, he did not know, nor why it seemed to ease their pain a little to listen… […] They all fell silent. Fawkes’s lament was still echoing over the dark grounds outside.” (Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince)

It’s a love/hate scene for me because it needed to be there, but it’s another reminder that the greatest wizard is gone forever. After this, Fawkes leaves humans behind and never binds to another, probably because of the pain. Some people wonder why he doesn’t go with Harry, but I think it’s kind of obvious. Though Harry is wonderful, Fawkes has been with wizards for at least 60 years, he’s done. Though he is immortal, he needs to be with his own kind. This kind of reminds me of Harry. Though Harry realizes that Dudley’s awesome and all at the end and knows the muggle world is important to his life, he belongs in the wizarding world and that’s all there is to that.

More about Fawkes here!

No fun quotes this week, since, you know, Fawkes doesn’t talk…but I did come across a tumblr dedicated to Harry Potter related confessions. Some really cool ideas out there. Here’s the link if you’re interested!

“What a Beautiful Place…To Be With Friends.”

Posted on October 15, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Dobby – A fatuous or foolish person. Also, a weave of cloth that is durable and natural-looking. Finer stores still sell shirts made of “dobby” weave.

Oh Dobby, how I love you. I’m not even sure why it is that I find you so adorable, but I do. He’s so innocent, and his love for Harry is just so pure. Some people aren’t quite sure why Dobby loves Harry so much, but it’s one of Harry’s finer qualities: he doesn’t judge based on purity of blood or creature or status, he judges based on the content of their character. Harry is first wizard that Dobby encounters that is actually polite. Dobby practically sobs when Harry asks him to sit down. Dobby reminds me, in a way, of a dog. He’s fiercely loyal; he would do anything to protect those he loves, and even extends this to those that Harry loves as well.

Dobby’s name obviously is perfect. Not really a word you would hear much, but a childish or silly person is exactly what Dobby is. He is ridiculous when punishing himself and when he’s trying to get Harry to stay home from Hogwarts. He blocks the barrier to Platform 9 andd ¾, he practically smashes Harry to pieces with the bludger and so many other things, but he still loves Harry because Harry frees him. Probably one of the best scenes in Chamber of Secrets. Dobby was brought to life exactly how I saw him, even the voice is perfect. I’m going to be completely honest. I sobbed when Dobby died. It was so unfair. I cried when it happened in the movie too and my friends made fun of me. But that’s not the point. Dobby was so wonderful and innocent, but it just goes to show that no one is safe in war, not even the innocent. But it also shows, like this picture says, “Even the smallest of creatures can die a hero’s death.” Dobby was a hero. Even though he would get punished (self-inflicted, of course), he still sought to protect Harry. Even though he would get in trouble for stealing, he still broke into Snape’s store cupboards and got Harry gillyweed (Goblet of Fire – only in the books). Even though it would mean returning to his former masters house and incredible danger for him, Dobby went to save Harry and the others at Malfoy Manor.

Though some found it unnecessary, Dobby is completely cut out of the fourth book. But this is where you find out what Dobby’s been doing with his life since Harry freed him – he works in the kitchens at Hogwarts. Dumbledore pays Dobby and gives him vacation days too. Unfortunately, this doesn’t put him in good favor with the other house elves because they don’t approve of his wages. Dobby, like I mentioned earlier, is the one that gives Harry gillyweed for the Second Task of Triwizard Tournament. Dobby also hints that Ron is what is taken from Harry. Dobby also gives Harry the idea to use the Room of Requirement for Dumbledore’s Army, which later is very important.

Anyway, I clearly love Dobby, yet there are people who don’t see what role he has in the stories at all, but I think it’s clear that Dobby is important. I love him and hated when he died.

“I Don’t Think You’re a Waste of Space.”

Posted on October 8, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Dudley – An aristocratic surname used as a first name since the 19th Century. Also, a town in one of England’s largest cities – Birmingham. Also, from the meadow.

Dursley – A town near J.K. Rowling’s birthplace.

Dudley? What’s so great about him? Not much, to be honest. He’s a jerk to Harry while they were growing up, but it makes Harry a better person. Dudley is spoiled and obnoxious. Dudley prepares Harry for a magical bully, found in Draco. Eventually, Dudley realizes that Harry is actually a decent person and that he was a jerk all those years. But he doesn’t realize it until they are being separated, and at that point they don’t know if or when they’ll see each other again. Dudley’s shining moment where he tells Harry that he’s not a waste of space is cut from the movie – which is stupid. It’s very important, at least to me.

Dudley’s name clearly has some implications behind it as well. Dudley is spoiled and snobbish, hence aristocratic surname. On Pottermore, Rowling revealed that Dursley was nothing personal because she had never visited, but it the name itself sounded unpleasant to her.

Dudley’s a jerk. Plain and simple. But the thing is he’s just another example of how terrible Harry’s childhood is. He’s also a foil to Harry. They both grow up in the same house, but because of Vernon and Lily’s prejudice towards Harry and his parents, their lives are completely different. When Dumbledore comes and visits in Half-Blood Prince, Dumbledore calls Vernon and Lily out on it. He tells them that though they cared for Harry and kept him under their roof, they never once treated him as a son, not even buying him a real birthday present. I think it’s hilarious when Dumbledore says something about the damage done to Dudley and Vernon and Petunia look at him trying to find the damage because they can’t see anything wrong with their perfect son. Another great scene that’s been deleted. In the long run, I think it’s probably for the best that Harry was never treated the same because he learned from a young age that life isn’t always easy. It’d be hard enough to lose your parents, but to not know them and have to live with your evil aunt and uncle…ugh. That’d be terrible. More proof that Harry is awesomesauce.

Yeah Dudley’s rude at times, but other times, Harry provokes him when he’s angry. In The Order of the Phoenix, Harry is angry at Ron, Hermione, and Sirius because they aren’t telling him what’s going on and he tries to take it out on Dudley, calling him “Big-D,” “Ickle Diddykins,” and other names. Plus, Dudley always somehow ends up getting the short stick when it comes to magic. I mean, he gets trapped in a boa constrictors cage, he gets a pig tail, Fred and George trick him and give him Ton-Tongue Toffee, and he gets attacked by Dementors, which he can’t even see. I’m sure there are lots more, too. I’m not really defending Dudley, I’m just saying, Harry isn’t exactly innocent in all cases.

More about the Dementor attack. Jo added it for a reason. Dudley, for the first time in his life, sees himself as he really is: a bully and a jerk. From that day on, Dudley changed and it helped him become a better person. Example: in The Deathly Hallows, Dudley leaves a cup of tea outside Harry’s door, but Harry misinterprets it for a prank, but after Dudley thanks Harry for saving his life (soul technically), Harry realizes that Dudley had changed. Jo revealed that Harry makes his kids go visit Dudley’s family every so often even though they find it dull. I think it shows that Harry and Dudley grew up and moved past their differences. (This is something that’s kind of subtly hinted at in the Epilogue; when Ron sees Draco and his family he tells his children to not become friends with Scorpius; in other words, Ron still hasn’t grown up.)

“Very Smart Owl You’ve Got There.”

Posted on October 1, 2012 by Rachael Knodel

Hedwig – The Saint of Orphans that lived in Germany in the 13th and 14th Century. Means “refuge in battle.” Mentioned in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

You may be wondering, why are you writing about an owl? Well, in case you’re one of those people that’s only ever watched the movies, you don’t realize how important Hedwig is to Harry. As you can see, J.K. Rowling was ever creative in the names that she chose for her characters. The Saint of Orphans? Helloooooo! Harry’s an orphan. Makes sense, right? Refuge in battle? A little more of a stretch, but Hedwig is always there for Harry even if the battle is just a fight between him and Ron. But even more than that, Hedwig saved Harry in the Battle of the Seven Potters. I’m not gonna lie, I cried when Hedwig died. I’m an emotional person, what can I say?

In the books, Harry doesn’t name Hedwig right away, but finds her name in A History of Magic, a book that becomes very important later in the series. More importantly, she’s a present from Hagrid, Harry’s first encounter with the wizarding world that he’s been hidden from. Harry trusts Hagrid with his life and it means so much to Harry because this is the first birthday present that he remembers. Hedwig represents so much to Harry. She’s the constant reminder that everything that happens at Hogwarts is real and she’s the tie between his magical and muggle lives. When Hedwig dies, it’s supposed to represent the loss of Harry’s childhood. Think about it. The journey that Harry goes on, there’s no room for childhood, and there’s no way Harry could have lugged Hedwig around because she would have attracted attention. And, there was no real reason for her to be with him because he cut all ties with everyone except Hermione and Ron. So, as much as I hate having to admit it, Hedwig had to go. I’ll always love Hedwig though.

In this article, Jo talks about Hedwig. I personally think it would have been kind of cool if Hedwig hadn’t died until later, like at the Battle of Hogwarts. If I didn’t love Neville so much, I would have wanted Hedwig to kill Nagini because I think it could have been symbolic in a few ways. But I’m glad Jo went the route she did, Hedwig swooping in randomly to open the snitch doesn’t seem right, but Harry embracing his fate and kissing the snitch is perfect. Oh, Jo, how wonderful you are.

The Pensieve

Another Potterhead's View on the Villianous and Virtuous