Six Reasons I’m Proud to Be a Gryffindor
You may feel that there are already seven books dedicated to Gryffindor pride. Why do we need to celebrate Gryffindor values when they already have the lion’s share of representation? Gryffindors are an essential part of the Potter series and have inspired millions of people to emulate the best qualities of Hermione Granger, Harry Potter, and Ron Weasley. Daring, courage, and chivalry are all incredible qualities that set Gryffindors apart. Here are six reasons why I’m roaring with Gryffindor pride!
Gryffindors are protective.
If you dare hurt a friend or family member of a Gryffindor, you better grab some lion spray! Gryffindors care deeply about the people they love and will fight ferociously to protect them. Whether we’re consoling a friend who’s in pain or literally shielding them from harm, Gryffindors have your back.
Gryffindors stay true to what they believe in.
Gryffindors aren’t afraid to challenge injustice. Many characters such as Minerva McGonagall, Albus Dumbledore, and Harry Potter are immovable when faced with hostility against their opinions. Despite the whole wizarding world’s disbelief in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry continues to spread awareness of Voldemort’s return under enormous pressure. Similarly, Hermione sees the flaws in a corrupt system of magical dominance and fights for house-elf rights by starting SPEW, regardless of the overwhelming resistance she faced.
Gryffindors are accepting.
Most Gryffindors tend to have a progressive attitude amid a world of prejudice. Slytherins and Gryffindors clash for many reasons (including their own egos), but for thousands of years the crucial divide between the Houses lay in their perspective on Muggles and Muggle-borns (thankfully, this has changed a lot in the past 20 years). The House of Godric Gryffindor has stayed true to the founder’s sentiment: Muggles should be treated as human beings, as equals, not persecuted as second-class citizens. Gryffindors accept differences and withhold judgment based on your blood or monetary status.
Gryffindors are both brawny and brainy.
Gryffindor could be considered the athletic House, in which case I would certainly fall short of the mark. However, there’s room in Gryffindor House for Hermione Grangers and Oliver Woods. How else would they win the House Cup consistently? Gryffindor has an array of different personalities that bring their own brand of enthusiasm to the table. Do you want to play Quidditch? Are you a quick-witted student matching the likes of Dumbledore? Are you a whiz when confronted with a Snargaluff pod? Welcome!
Gryffindors are loving.
Not only do Gryffindors have a chivalrous demeanor, but they also have huge hearts! Much like Molly Weasley, Gryffindors make great friends. Far from fair-weather friends, Gryffindors are in relationships for the long haul. Our friends are our family and therefore treated as such.
Gryffindors are brave.
Although bravery is a thread that runs through many Gryffindor qualities, it’s worthy of an extra bit of acknowledgment. Bravery is important in many difficult, everyday situations. I may be an introvert, but my sometimes-closeted bravery manifests in times of need. Bravery comes in many forms. It could mean fighting for a cause, ending an unhealthy relationship, or having the strength to better yourself. Gryffindors are motivated individuals who use their bravery to help and protect others.
