Most readers can agree that one of the most fun parts of Harry Potter are the four houses --- Gryffindor, where Harry, Hermione and Ron live; along with Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin. In this post, Teen Board member Sydney L. explains what house she belongs in, and what JK Rowling teaches readers by creating houses with such different values.
Though going on broomstick rides, being chosen by your wand and casting spells are all great fun, the part of the Harry Potter series that resonated with me the most was the Houses in Hogwarts. I, along with so many others, have often wondered where the sorting hat would decide I fit in best. Would I follow in the footsteps of the Golden Trio and be courageous in the presence of danger as a Gryffindor? Or perhaps I would be more sly, cunning and ambitious, like Draco in Slytherin. Or maybe I would have a Ravenclaw’s ingenious mind and always want to learn.
These three houses are the favorites of many, and often Hufflepuff --- the house of kindness and patience --- is disregarded as useless because they are most distinguished by loyalty, which most houses share. However, this lovely house may have some of the most important lessons of all to give. A Hufflepuff is always there for their friends and, like Gryffindor, is prepared to fight for them if needed. These badgers are quite possibly the most accepting house as well for many reasons, starting with Helga Hufflepuff. While each founder had a preference for specific traits in their students, Helga wanted to love everyone the same and would take anyone regardless of blood status, talents, strength, intelligence or personality. She taught them to love and accept everyone, even those outside of their house, and so they root for every single member of the student body.
This also means they are very fair. They aren’t afraid to admit when they are wrong and will not sacrifice others to achieve success for themselves. And of course, Hufflepuffs are fiercely dedicated to everything they do. These are the reasons I am more than proud to call myself a Hufflepuff and why I think everyone should aspire to be just a little more like one.
Each house has a downfall as well. Gryffindors, though brave, are known to be show-offs and a bit cocky. Ravenclaws, due to their intelligence, are stubborn to admit they are wrong and are extremely prideful. Slytherins often are plagued by conceit and selfishness. Hufflepuffs, because they so often put everyone else first, are too passive and will avoid confronting their issues with others for the sake of peace.
Still though, being sorted is a lot more important than a few personality traits; the influence of a house can shape you into a better --- or worse --- person. We learn this in Harry’s story, as his courage and bravery inspire the rest of the Gryffindors to rise up against Voldemort. Plus, I think that in creating these four homes, JK Rowling was trying to teach her own lessons.
If you notice, the houses balance each other out perfectly and have the ability to better each other if they are willing to learn. Ravenclaws can teach that to succeed, you must use your head; Slytherins are there to encourage the others to not be so passive and to speak your mind. Gryffindors can show that bravery doesn’t mean being unafraid, but rather being afraid and still doing the right thing. Hufflepuffs can soften members of the other houses, and teach them to be humble and to embrace each other with kindness. However, to do this, they must stand united. This metaphor teaches children that no one is perfect but by helping one another, things can be much, much better. I think that is something every child needs to hear growing up and that is just a fraction of why Harry Potter is important.
Sydney L. is a Teen Board Member.
