Harry Potter, #5
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
by J.K. Rowling
Contents
In the Hog’s Head
Overview
Hermione arranges a secret Hogsmeade meeting at the Hog’s Head, where a large group gathers to learn real Defense from Harry. After Zacharias Smith’s challenges, testimonies of Harry’s past feats sway the group. They agree to weekly lessons, sign a confidentiality list, and disperse. Outside, Hermione reveals Ginny is dating Michael Corner, while Cho’s interest in Harry is evident.
Summary
Two weeks after Hermione’s proposal, Harry, still unsure, admits he has considered teaching Defense. Hermione suggests inviting anyone interested to meet in Hogsmeade to avoid Umbridge’s interference. Harry worries Sirius might appear, but Ron and Hermione reassure him. They head to the Hog’s Head, a grimy, discreet pub.
Inside, a surprisingly large crowd arrives: students from Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw, including Cho. Hermione explains the plan to learn practical Defense, citing Voldemort’s return. Zacharias Smith demands proof, but Harry refuses to relive Cedric’s death. Others ask about Harry’s skills; Susan Bones mentions his Patronus, and several recall his basilisk and Triwizard feats, bolstering confidence in him.
With general agreement to learn from Harry, the group debates logistics. Quidditch schedules complicate planning, and Hermione says they will message details later. She asks everyone to sign a list pledging secrecy. After initial hesitations from Zacharias and Ernie, all sign, creating a sense of commitment despite Umbridge’s oversight.
As they leave, Ron fumes about Zacharias. Hermione notes the turnout benefited from social ties, revealing Ginny is dating Michael Corner, which infuriates Ron. In Scrivenshaft’s, Hermione explains Ginny moved on from her crush on Harry. Walking through Hogsmeade, Hermione teases Harry about Cho’s clear interest, which leaves Harry elated.
Who Appears
- Harry PotterReluctant prospective Defense teacher; rebuffs demands for details on Cedric; agrees to form a secret study group; notices Cho’s interest.
- Hermione GrangerOrganizes the Hog’s Head meeting, argues for practical Defense, proposes secrecy list, coordinates future logistics.
- Ron WeasleySupports Harry, clashes with Zacharias, reacts angrily to news that Ginny is dating Michael Corner.
- Cho ChangAttends meeting, praises Harry’s past achievements, shows clear romantic interest, leaves under friend’s scrutiny.
- Zacharias SmithSkeptical Hufflepuff; presses Harry for proof and details; hesitates but signs the secrecy list.
- Susan BonesConfirms Harry’s Patronus via her aunt; supports his capability to teach.
- Fred WeasleyBacks Harry, intimidates Zacharias, helps supply butterbeer, leaves for joke-shop purchases.
- George WeasleyDefends Harry, brandishes a menacing instrument to silence Zacharias, departs with Fred and Lee.
- Ginny WeasleyAttends with Michael Corner; her relationship is revealed; previously moved on from crush on Harry.
- Michael CornerRavenclaw attending due to Ginny; his relationship with Ginny provokes Ron’s outrage.
- Ernie MacmillanDeclares Defense training vital; initially hesitant to sign but commits as a prefect.
- Luna LovegoodAttends dreamily; claims Fudge has an army of heliopaths, sparring with Hermione.
- Neville LongbottomSupports Harry by recalling past heroics; eager to learn Defense.
- Angelina JohnsonEnsures meetings avoid Quidditch conflicts; prioritizes scheduling.
- Hog’s Head barmanGruff, familiar-looking landlord who serves the group and observes the meeting.