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How the Hogwarts Professors act like a family unit

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## The patriarch of the family: Dumbledore

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Dumbledore taking a baby Harry to Privet Drive.

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Nobody could dispute the fact that Dumbledore was in charge at Hogwarts, not even his enemies. As he once told Lucius Malfoy, then chair of the Hogwarts governors:

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…you will find that I will only truly have left this school when none here are loyal to me.

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Which never really happened, did it? Even after his death a few years later, certain brave students remained loyal to Dumbledore. Picture Neville, sneaking around the Hogwarts corridors at night to daub ‘Dumbledore’s Army, Still Recruiting’ on the walls while the Carrow siblings blustered about. And later, Harry arriving at the Headmaster’s office when the battle was over, seeking out Dumbledore’s portrait to seek “one last piece of advice.”

In his lifetime, Dumbledore’s approval and advice was sought by many students and teachers. Even the [Minister for Magic](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/ministers-for-magic) himself, Cornelius Fudge, asked Dumbledore for help, at least in the early days. Dumbledore made his students and his staff feel safe. He steered the Hogwarts ship through choppy waters time and time again, seemingly unflappable and always willing to extend the warmest of welcomes. It’s no wonder so many remained loyal to him for so long. He even got Snape on side, for goodness sake. 

## The maternal figure: McGonagall


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If Dumbledore was Hogwarts’ leader, then Professor McGonagall was definitely his second-in-command. Even before she literally marshalled troops to protect Hogwarts in the final battle with Voldemort, McGonagall was fierce in her loyalty both to Dumbledore and to the school she would later lead herself – in [Cursed Child](https://www.wizardingworld.com/discover/on-stage), McGonagall became Hogwarts’ Headmistress, and she guarded the school every bit as closely as Dumbledore.

Her loyalty was particularly fierce when it came to her own house, Gryffindor. She was not afraid to challenge or even punish her students when warranted, but she always looked out for them. When she sat Harry down and told him, over a biscuit, to be careful around Professor Umbridge, for example. Or when she gave Neville a much-needed confidence boost as he struggled with his grandmother’s expectations:


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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 – particularly after what happened at the Ministry.

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Because McGonagall noticed things about her students. She was shrewd and strict, yes, but she also supported them. In her way, she was every bit as fiercely maternal as, say, [Molly Weasley.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/matriarchs-and-patriarchs-of-the-wizarding-and-muggle-worlds)

## The clever older brother: Flitwick


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Bright, courageous, and full of Ravenclaw wit and wisdom, Professor Flitwick might have been small in stature but he was certainly someone to look up to. He was a creative thinker who knew a lot about his subject, [Charms](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/how-well-would-you-do-in-professor-flitwicks-charms-classes) – it was Flitwick’s talents Professor McGonagall called upon to help defend Hogwarts during the final battle, and in happier times, Flitwick’s delightful Christmas decorations were the talk of his classroom.

But he also had a few other tricks up his sleeve. Given he was apparently once a champion dueller, perhaps it shouldn’t have surprised us when Flitwick was the one to chase Snape out of Hogwarts, or to see him battle some of Voldemort’s best Death Eaters. As modest as he was, Flitwick never showed off his skills, although he undoubtedly had many. As we said: certainly someone to look up to.

## The entertaining aunt: Sprout


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Professor Sprout also knew her subject, Herbology, inside out and back-to-front. Her classroom was full of surprises. From re-potting Mandrakes to squeezing Bubotuber pus to juicing Snargaluff pods, it might have been messy and occasionally smelly (her preferred fertiliser was dragon dung), but Herbology with [Professor Sprout](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/why-professor-sprout-was-the-perfect-head-of-hufflepuff) was never boring.

Which some might also say about Sprout herself. With her flyway hair, earth-covered clothes and mud-encrusted fingernails Harry once imagined would make his Aunt Petunia faint, Sprout might have cut a somewhat dishevelled figure, but she was not one to be underestimated. Professor Sprout was a no-nonsense, down-to-earth, determined woman who loved her students and was willing to defend Hogwarts with whatever weapons she could find – including Mandrakes. We imagine she’d be great fun to have a cup of tea with, if you could drag her away from the greenhouse.

## The needlessly strict (and unfairly indulgent) uncle: Snape

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A troll lies unconscious on the floor of the girls' bathroom. Harry, Ron, Hermione, Quirrell, Snape and McGonagall stand around it.

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For students in his house, Slytherin, Professor Snape could be indulgent. He often turned a blind eye to Draco Malfoy’s bad behaviour – when a spell Draco aimed at Harry inadvertently hit Hermione, causing her teeth to grow past her chin, not only did Snape not reprimand him, but his response to Hermione was just cruel. 

Conversely, he’d dock points from Harry and other Gryffindors for anything that took his fancy: taking library books outside school, helping Neville with his Shrinking Solution, even answering questions in class (those last two were Hermione, in case you wondered.)

So unless you were sat at the Slytherin table, we can’t imagine Snape being a popular dinner guest. Still, he did occasionally reel his disdain in enough to sit down for a quasi-family gathering, as when he joined the rest of the teachers for Christmas dinner in *Prisoner of Azkaban*. He might have been reluctant to pull a cracker, but under Dumbledore’s fatherly eye at least he couldn’t needlessly take points from Gryffindor.

## The eccentric one you humour during the holidays: Trelawney 


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Professor Trelawney is standing in the courtyard upset after being sacked while Professor McGonagall comforts her. Professor Umbridge and Argus Filch are stood there too

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Speaking of that infamous Christmas dinner, Professor Trelawney’s unexpected appearance was a masterclass in eccentricity. Like many relatives you only see during the holidays, Trelawney saw no need to moderate her behaviour or swallow down her opinions for the select group of people with whom she had little in common (save their shared love of Hogwarts, perhaps). On the contrary, she gave all her baseless predictions and fateful dramatics full reign. 

She didn’t, however, take McGonagall up on her offer of tripe.

## The loveable cousin: Hagrid


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Hagrid sat outside of his hut playing the flute. Fang is lying on the grass in front of him.

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Undemanding and understanding, Hagrid might not have been the most book-smart professor at Hogwarts, but if we were throwing a Hogwarts family reunion his name would definitely be at the top of the invite list. We like to think he’d turn up with a bottle of mulled mead and some rock cakes, possibly in his [hairy brown suit](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/ranked-wizarding-fashion-icons-web), maybe in the company of Fang or some other fearsome creature, hopefully not doused in that cologne he once wore to meet Madame Maxine – but regardless of his party garb we’re sure he’d bring the fun. And, really, what more can we say?

The unlikely siblings wordsearch

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Theseus and Newt are underground in The Erkstag. Theseus is holding a lantern aloft.

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Will this wordsearch be your fastest time ever?

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[More puzzles live on our hub! Play away.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/potter-puzzles)

The Sword of Gryffindor crossword

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Luna and Neville sat on a table in the Great Hall after the Battle of Hogwarts. Both have cuts and bruises and Neville is holding the sword of Gryffindor. 

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2

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Channel your best Professor Binns energy to complete this crossword! We're going deep into Hogwarts' history.

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Visit our [puzzles page](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/potter-puzzles) for more challenges!

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The most comforting Harry Potter characters

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## Lily Potter

Harry’s mother celebrated her birthday on 20th January – basically the depths of winter for those of us in the northern hemisphere – but almost from the beginning, she was a ray of light. In her pre-Hogwarts days, [Lily](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/unsung-heroes-of-harry-potter-stories-lily-potter) tried to spare her sister Petunia’s feelings as she prepared for her new life as a witch. At school, she maintained her friendship with Snape for as long as she could, but still had the courage to stand up to him when his fascination with the Dark Arts took him down the wrong path. And she didn’t spare her future husband either: when James Potter was being an arrogant, bullying toe rag, she had no qualms about calling him out.

But it was her love for Harry that showed her true character. She was willing to die to save him, without any hesitation. Of course, her sacrifice literally kept Harry safe, but the example she gave him – of prioritising love over anything else, and of exceptional bravery in the face of danger – was just as important. He might have grown up without her, but Lily blazed a trail her son couldn’t help but follow.

## Hagrid

The gentlest of gentle giants, [Hagrid](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/every-time-hagrid-made-us-feel-better-about-things) was a hugely positive force in Harry’s life. Always there to provide warmth, support and tooth-breakingly hard rock cakes, Hagrid also gave Harry some of the most uncomplicated moments of excitement and adventure he ever had in the wizarding world. From that first trip to Diagon Alley to the rescuing of Norbert to those afternoons pottering about in his small wooden hut, Hagrid took Harry under his wing and looked after him quite as well as any of his own magical creatures. 

## Newt Scamander

Years before Harry, [Newt Scamander](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/why-newt-scamander-is-a-different-kind-of-hero) was another slightly reluctant (and occasionally quite stubborn) wizarding world hero with a seemingly impossible Dumbledore-set task ahead of him and a love for magical creatures that easily equalled Hagrid’s. 

But Dumbledore obviously had a knack for selecting heroes, because for all his reluctance, everyone warmed to Newt. As with Hagrid, his love for fantastic beasts was incredibly endearing, but it was his stubborn determination to do the right thing – even if, as he told his brother Theseus, he didn’t want to pick a ‘side’ – that made him the humble Hufflepuff hero he was.


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## Dobby

Loyal, enthusiastic, and with a [flair for fashion](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/dobbys-guide-to-fashion), Dobby was small in stature but made up for it in personality (and also in gift-giving prowess – his painting of Harry was a particular favourite of ours.)

OK, first impressions were a little mixed, given his attempts to sabotage Harry’s return to Hogwarts and, later, to knock him off his broom mid-Quidditch game. It wasn’t clear at the time that he was trying to save Harry’s life, but now we know better. Dobby’s loyalty towards Harry was already well-established before Harry helped free him from the Malfoy’s, but after that his devotion knew no bounds. He was always there to help out, from giving Harry the Gillyweed that allowed him to rescue his ‘Wheezy’ during the Triwizard Tournament to finding the DA a place to practise to that final moment of sacrifice, when he rescued Harry and the others from Malfoy Manor and paid the ultimate price for his bravery. Dobby died a Free Elf, as fiercely loyal to Harry as he had ever been.

## Luna Lovegood

Quirky, creative, and completely unembarrassable, [Luna](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/the-kindness-of-luna-lovegood)’s beliefs were as strange as they were varied and she was not averse to the odd conspiracy theory (Rufus Scrimgeour as a vampire, anyone?)

And yet her knack for getting right to the heart of things gave her a unique kind of wisdom. She certainly offered Harry comfort when he needed it: sharing her own experience of grief when he was mourning Sirius; delivering a simple but heartfelt eulogy for Dobby; identifying when Harry needed time away from the crowds after the Battle of Hogwarts. She might have believed in a lot of false stories, but when it came to empathy and understanding she was truly wise.


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## Mrs Weasley

[Molly Weasley](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/chapter-that-made-us-fall-in-love-with-molly-weasley) was the embodiment of maternal comfort. Her cosy but haphazard home provided a refuge, not just for her own family but for Harry and numerous other friends and relatives. She regularly cooked up a storm of comfort food. And every Christmas, she provided each of her family members with the cosiest and most comforting item of clothing ever to exist: a Weasley jumper.

For Harry, of course, the comfort that she gave him was about much more than hearty meals. When she hugged him after Cedric’s death, we saw just how much she cared…

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Mrs Weasley set the potion down on the bedside cabinet, bent down, and put her arms around Harry. He had no memory of ever being hugged like this, as though by a mother.

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Plus, she may have been warmth personified, but Molly had a core of steel. We all remember her battle with Bellatrix. Which just goes to show: never underestimate a mother.

Everything you need to know about the opening of Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

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## The tour follows in the footsteps of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London first opened in 2012, and since then, has magically grown and flourished, adding new extensions, new sets, and more behind-the-scenes Harry Potter goodness than ever before. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo aims to mirror the good work created in Leavesden for a brand new audience. 

## It is built on Japan’s Toshimaen site 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo is built on the foundations of history in Tokyo: the area where the Studio Tour lives was once home to a cherished amusement park. The “El Dorado” carousel in particular was a much-loved merry-go-round which travelled across the world and became a favourite attraction of celebrities. 

## Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo promises to house the biggest Harry Potter shop in the world 

Yes, really! We wonder if the team cast any Engorgement Charms? The huge range of products available in the Studio Tour’s shop make it especially unique for Harry Potter fans, who will be excited to find exclusive items here not available anywhere else.

## Authentic sets include the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley and – exclusively to Tokyo - the Ministry of Magic


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Many of the sets that feature at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London have been lovingly recreated here in Tokyo, with the Ministry of Magic set being exclusive to this Studio Tour. The design of the Ministry was inspired by Victorian architecture, and the foreboding Magic is Might sculpture is a particularly terrifying centre piece. 

## A host of immersive experiences await you 

You’ll be able to swig a Butterbeer, ride a broom or step into the crowd of a Quidditch game during your stay at Studio Tour Tokyo, living the life of a true witch or wizard. If you’re planning a trip, we can’t wait to find out what you get up to! 

[Learn more about Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo from the official website.](https://www.wbstudiotour.jp/en/)

Harry Potter: Magic Awakened is launching globally this summer 

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The wait is almost over for global audiences excited to get their hands on Harry Potter: Magic Awakened. [Pre-register now and get ready to master the magic.](http://go.wbgames.com/MagicAwakened)

Harry Potter Magic Awakened | Coming soon worldwide 

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In the game, you’ll play as a young witch or wizard starting at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Fans will be able to customise their character accordingly and enjoy the many facets of wizarding world life, such as discovering your Hogwarts house, perusing supplies in Diagon Alley, learning spells that can be cast in the form of cards – and taking part in Duelling Club. There will also be an intriguing story running through the game as you accumulate magical knowledge – so expect to meet a few familiar characters – and some exciting new ones along the way.

With [Hogwarts Legacy](https://www.wizardingworld.com/hogwarts-legacy) continuing to cast its spell on fans, and the news of another upcoming game coming soon, [Quidditch Champions](https://www.wizardingworld.com/news/harry-potter-quidditch-champions-invites-fans-to-play), its a big year for gaming gurus with a penchant for the Wizarding World.

You can visit our [Portkey Games page](https://www.portkeygames.com/) to learn more about all the offerings under our official gaming label.

Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions invites fans to be the first to play

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*Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions* is a fast-paced, online multiplayer game featuring the world’s most iconic magical sport. From Warner Bros. Games, under the [Portkey Games label](https://www.portkeygames.com/), it engages players in the sport of Quidditch and other broomstick adventures alongside friends in a competitive setting.

So, how to join the playtests? Simply visit [QuidditchChampions.WBGames.com ](https://quidditchchampions.wbgames.com/en?utm_source=wwd_web&utm_medium=newsarticle&utm_campaign=QuidditchChampions&utm_content=Games) to sign up for the chance to be a Quidditch Champion. 

***

While you wait for more info on *Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions*, you can still geek out with us about [Hogwarts Legacy over at our hub. ](https://www.wizardingworld.com/hogwarts-legacy)

Harry Potter: Magic Awakened reveals new story trailer 

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From your train journey to the Sorting Ceremony, Harry Potter: Magic Awakened will give you the full Hogwarts experience. The immersive collectible card and wizarding dueling game has already become the No.1 top grossing mobile game in Mainland China – and we love the unique artistic style this game is designed in. This latest look at the game puts you right in the center of the storyline, from Hagrid’s delivery of the Hogwarts letter to dueling lessons at Hogwarts.

Harry Potter Magic Awakened | Story Trailer

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As you can see, the game invites you to customise your look, go shopping in Diagon Alley and generally improve your magical knowledge – but we’re intrigued by some of the unfamiliar characters we see in the trailer too, such as the blonde Slytherin student intent on getting to her Potions class! 

[Harry Potter: Magic Awakened](https://www.wizardingworld.com/discover/portkey-games/harry-potter-magic-awakened) is one of many titles that sits under the Portkey Games label, which is dedicated to creating new Wizarding World mobile and video game experiences that place the player at the centre of their own adventure, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s original stories. You can learn more about Portkey Games here.

You can [pre-register on Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.netease.wb.goog.hpma&hl=en&gl=US&pli=1) or the [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/pl/app/harry-potter-magic-awakened/id1490196497) right now to learn more, or [visit the official website.](https://www.magicawakened.com/en-gb)