The History of Hogwarts in Harry Potter

Hogwarts, the castle in the now super famous Harry Potter series, is a big deal and is given a rich history within the books. Here is a non-technical guide surrounding the founders of the castle to help those who are having a hard time keeping up with the series. Hogwarts was founded over 200 years ago by four of the most famous wizards and witches ever: Salazar Slytherin, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw, and Godric Gryffindor.

Salazar Slytherin: Slytherin of fen was both the first head teacher and founder of Slytherin House. He especially prized those of great cunning and "pure-blood." This belief that "pure-blooded" wizards were better than those of "mixed" or muggle parentage caused a great divide in the school. Once Slytherin left, things became much better at the school; however, some of that divide is still felt at Hogwarts today.

One of Slytherin's most famous attributes was his shrewd ways. His cunning manner led many to distrust him and his gift of Parseltongue, the ability to talk to snakes. His house's symbol, the serpent, is representative of his great and rare ability. One of the few living people that still have the gift of Parseltongue is the famous, Harry Potter. School colors are green and silver.

Helga Hufflepuff- Sweet Hufflepuff from Valley Broad was both the first head teacher and founder of Hufflepuff House. She sided with Gryffindor and Ravenclaw against Slytherin on the issue of wizarding parentage that led to Slytherin's eventual departure from the school. Less is known about Hufflepuff and her friend Ravenclaw than is known about the male founders.

Helga Hufflepuff was known for her even temper and her willingness to teach anybody with a thirst for learning. If they were willing to work hard then they were worthy of admission to her house. Hufflepuff's animal the beaver is one of the hardest working animals. It has been known to work for hours a day to help protect itself! Hufflepuff's school colors are yellow and black.