Hand-Me-Down Facts About The Weasleys
“My father told me all the Weasleys have red hair, freckles, and more children than they can afford," sneers Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. That may be true, Draco, but the true worth of this magical clan isn't summed up by their beauty or wealth. Throughout the Potter series, the Weasley family demonstrate a strength of character that's often lacking in other, more prestigious pure-blood families. Through courage, determination, and bravery (not to mention their excellent skills on the Quidditch pitch) the Weasleys prove themselves true Gryffindors. And through it all, these jolly gingers provide the beating heart of the series and give the orphaned Harry Potter a family he always craved. Read on for some deeper insight into Weasleys of the past, present, and future!
Weasleys Facts
1. A Pack Of Proud Blood-Traitors
In the 1930s, a book called The Pureblood Directory cataloged the "Sacred Twenty-Eight" wizarding families who could still claim pureblood status—including the Malfoys, the Blacks, and, of course, the Weasleys. Although some families are proud of their inclusion in the directory, the Weasleys scoff at the classification and instead offer friendship to Muggles and wizards with no magical heritage.
2. Close Call For Ron
Early in the writing process, JK Rowling made a promise to herself: never to kill any members of the main Potter trio (Ron, Hermione, and Harry). Later though, while trapped in a bout of depression, she almost broke that promise in order to kill Ron. The author has since said that the idea came about “out of sheer spite.”
3. Saving The World While Looking Fierce
Many members of the magical community lose their fashion sense when trying to pass in the Muggle world. In Goblet of Fire, the campsite manager Mr. Roberts complains about “a bloke walking ‘round in a kilt and a poncho.” One character without these sartorial issues is Bill Weasley, who is basically the epitome of cool. He has long hair tied back in a ponytail, boots made of dragon skin (not sure his brother Charlie would approve), and jewellery made from fangs. The scars given to him by Fenrir Greyback in Half-Blood Prince surely add to his bad-boy aesthetic.
