Aug. 29, 2018 marked the 20th anniversary of the incredible Harry Potter series, 20 years of magic, prophecies, quidditch, spells, mysteries and wizardry that changed so many lives for the better. Whether you’re a Gryffindor or a Slytherin, all of us can feel the magic that J.K. Rowling’s world provides to people all over. Reflecting on this series and all the enchanting elements it contains reminds us of one of the eeriest parts of going to Hogwarts: the houses. Now, I know we all dreamed of being sorted into a house as kids. Fortunately, J.K. Rowling has helped fulfill that dream with the creation of Pottermore, the digital heart of the wizarding world, which has a quiz you can take to be sorted into your own house. The house you’re sifted into reflects your personality and unique characteristics. There are endearing qualities present in each house, and here are some of the reasons why you should appreciate the one you’ve been assigned to:
Gryffindor
Courtesy: Odyssey
Students sorted into the Gryffindor house, which was founded by Godric Gryffindor, are known for their courage, chivalry and determination. With a lion as their emblem, it’s no secret that Gryffindors are daring, adventurous and, most of all, brave-hearted. With their daring nerve and recklessness in the best and worst ways, Gryffindors are a well-rounded house and strongly believe in doing what is right.
Ravenclaw
Courtesy: Odyssey
Ravenclaws, with all their wit and intelligence, are known for their wisdom, creativity, cleverness and knowledge. Those who value brains over brawn can be found here. Ravenclaws often tend to be quite quirky, but strive to do what is wise. Though Ravenclaws can be know-it-alls sometimes, most times they do indeed know what the wisest decision is. If you’re known for being the quirky friend or the smartest in the group, or if you’re just great at making wise decisions, then you’re definitely a Ravenclaw.
Hufflepuff
Courtesy: Odyssey
Hufflepuffs (my house, the best house) are trustworthy and loyal. About Hufflepuff, the Pottermore website states, “Our emblem is the badger, an animal that is often underestimated, because it lives quietly until attacked, but which, when provoked, can fight off animals much larger that itself, including wolves. Our house colors are yellow and black.” Hufflepuffs are known for being the friendliest and tenacious of all the houses. Founded by Helga Hufflepuff, we are recognized for being just and true. That’s not to say we’re weak, we just enjoy making others happy and tend to be more patient towards people. We tend to steer clear from confrontation, but when necessary, like the badger, we’ll protect ourselves, our friends and our families against all-comers. Nobody intimidates us.
Slytherin
Courtesy: Odyssey
Founded by Salazar Slytherin, this is the house of the cunning, prideful and intelligent. Pushing stereotypes and pre-conceived notions of the Slytherin house aside, these students crave leadership and are resourceful, ambitious and determined. “Do what is necessary” is the motto of this house. The Slytherin house as a whole is not evil, despite how many dark wizards come out of it. The transition to dark magic and evil is due to the choices that individuals make on their own. Slytherin is a fairly well-rounded house, similar to the other houses. Like Gryffindors, they are loyal to those that are loyal to them and also possess the same intelligence as Ravenclaws.
If you haven’t already, take the sorting quiz on Pottermore.com and find your home away from home.
With all the love and magic this series has brought into the world, a huge thank you is due to J.K. Rowling. Without Harry Potter and his Wizarding world, our own world would be lacking a real pleasure – magic.