Ron Weasley’s Howler in Harry Potter: Explained

The ‘Harry Potter’ series is one of the most beloved fantasy sagas, following Harry, Ron, and Hermione in their battle against Lord Voldemort, one of the most dangerous dark wizards of all time. The Wizarding World is rich in magical elements, including spells, charms, and unique artefacts. One of the intriguing features of this universe is the Howler, a magical letter that many fans find both amusing and intimidating.

A Howler is a red, enchanted letter that amplifies the sender’s voice. If left unopened, it begins to smoke and eventually explodes, making it best to open immediately. Howlers are feared among Hogwarts students because they often arrive during breakfast in the Great Hall, ensuring that everyone hears the sender’s loud and public reprimand. These letters are usually sent by parents or guardians to scold their children, making the experience especially embarrassing.

Image Courtesy: Amino Apps

Ron Weasley famously received a Howler from his mother, Molly, in ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’ after he crashed his father’s enchanted car. The event was both humorous and mortifying for Ron, and his Howler became a memorable moment in the series.

Other characters, like Neville Longbottom, also received Howlers. In ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’, Neville’s grandmother sent him one for losing Gryffindor Tower’s passwords, though it was ultimately Hermione’s cat who had taken them.

Image Courtesy: CBR

In a surprising twist, Petunia Dursley received a Howler in ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix’, reminding her of the promise to protect Harry. This Howler was later revealed to have been sent by Dumbledore.

Though Howlers are a minor detail, they are one of many small elements that help make the Wizarding World of ‘Harry Potter’ so unique and richly detailed.

–Farheen Ali