The Harry Potter series follows the adventure of a young wizard named Harry Potter and his journey in the Wizarding World. The series has become an iconic part of popular culture and remains one of history’s most beloved and magical storylines.
With over 500 million copies sold worldwide as of 2018, it continues to be a timeless symbol of a cultural phenomenon enjoyed by fans of all ages.
While the series is filled with unforgettable moments, quotes from the characters stand out and leave an impact, which has dramatically shaped its legacy.
From witty quips, sage advice, and memorable one-liners, several quotes from the Harry Potter franchise have been immortalized as fan favorites. Here are 20 of the most memorable quotes from the series and who said them.
What are some Harry Potter Quotes?
Quotes are a string of words, phrases, or sentences that expresses an idea, a feeling, or a thought. They are often credited to the person who said them, and they frequently become popular due to their powerful message or profound insight.
In literature, quotes are an invaluable tool for writers. It helps define a character by giving readers an in-depth look into what a particular persona believes or stands for. This provides a better understanding of the characters’ motivations, thoughts, and feelings.
Quotes from Harry Potter contributed to the depth of the characters, which has played a crucial role in connecting readers to the magical world. Without these quotes, the Harry Potter series wouldn’t have become the global sensation it is today.
From the notable “Always” line from Severus Snape to the unforgettable “Yer a Wizard” phrase from Hagrid, these Harry Potter quotes will always be remembered.
Harry Potter Quotes and Who Said Them
The best Harry Potter quotes come from the iconic characters of the series. Here are some of their most famous quotes, as well as who said them:
1. “Always.” – Severus Snape
One of the most beloved and iconic quotes from the Harry Potter series is “Always”, uttered by Severus Snape.
This line is rooted in a heart-warming yet bittersweet story that ties in with Snape’s past and his love for Harry Potter’s mother, Lily. But what is the meaning of always in Harry Potter?
When Harry’s mother died, Snape made a vow to protect Harry and his family “always”. This is then echoed in Snape’s Patronus – a Doe, which was also Lily’s. Throughout the series, it is clear that Snape has developed an unbreakable bond and loyalty towards the Potters.
The revelation in the final book, during Snape’s conversation with Dumbledore, marks an emotional turning point in the series. This memorable quote has become a fan favorite and is one of the series’ most defining moments.
2. “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live; remember that.” – Albus Dumbledore
Albus Dumbledore’s wise advice to Harry Potter have remained a fan favorite and is one of the most memorable quotes from the series.
This quote comes from the first book when Dumbledore finds Harry gazing into the Mirror of Erised. Dumbledore warns Harry not to get lost in his dreams and reminds him that living in the present moment is essential.
This quote serves as a reminder for fans to pursue their dreams but also be conscious of the reality they are living in. It is a much-needed nudge to those who become too fixated on what could have been or might be in the future.
3. “It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.” – Albus Dumbledore
Another quote by Albus Dumbledore is this gem about having the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs, even when it isn’t popular.
This line comes from when Neville Longbottom, one of Harry Potter’s closest friends, stands up to him and his peers despite being outnumbered. Dumbledore recognizes Neville’s bravery and awards him 10 points, clinching the House Cup for Gryffindor.
With this quote, Dumbledore highlights the importance of loyalty and truth in friendship. It takes tremendous courage to stand up for what one believes in, even if it means going against one’s friends.
4. “I am what I am, an’ I’m not ashamed.” – Rubeus Hagrid
This powerful quote by Hagrid speaks volumes about self-acceptance and not being ashamed of one’s background. After Rita Skeeter publicly outs the gamekeeper for being a half-giant, Hagrid delivers this line of wisdom to Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
Rowling’s underlying message of embracing both one’s self and others is highlighted by this thought-provoking advice. Hagrid’s words demonstrate that no one should be ashamed of their origins or be judged for something they cannot control. It is a powerful reminder that everyone should be proud of who they are regardless of their circumstances.
5. “Yer a wizard, Harry.” – Rubeus Hagrid
This iconic line uttered by Hagrid to 11-year-old Harry is the first time readers get to see the Wizarding World. It is also the moment Harry finds out that he is not just a normal boy—instead, he has a destiny beyond his wildest imagination.
Hagrid’s words play an integral role in the series as it sets up Harry’s journey in the magical world. It shows that anything is possible and sometimes, even our wildest dreams can come true.
6.“Just because it’s taken you three years to notice, Ron, doesn’t mean no one else has spotted I’m a girl!” – Hermione Granger
Hermione is a feminist icon in the Harry Potter series, and her quote about being a girl is no exception.
Harry and Hermione are often seen as equals, while Ron serves as the comic relief. This line is Hermione’s way of reminding everyone that she isn’t a sidekick, but an equal player in the game.
Hermione’s wit and intelligence have made her a fan-favorite, and this line speaks volumes of her character. Moreover, it signifies the importance of recognizing female characters as influential individuals and not just sidekicks
7. “It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” – Albus Dumbledore
Albus Dumbledore has said some of the most memorable quotes in the series, and this line is no exception. This quote reflects Dumbledore’s wisdom and provides insight into his character.
The line signifies that people are not defined by their talents but by the decisions they make. It teaches readers to think twice before making a decision since it can have a long-lasting effect.
This quote also serves as an essential reminder for Harry to stay true to himself and not let his circumstances define him.
8. “Things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end, if not always in the way we expect.” – Luna Lovegood
One of the most memorable lines from Luna Lovegood is this line. It isn’t just insightful but also foreshadows the scene in Deathly Hallows where Harry uses the resurrection stone to speak with Sirius.
It tells readers that, eventually, things will come full circle, and all the pain and loss they face now will be redeemed in time. This line speaks of Luna’s optimistic outlook towards life despite having lost her mother at such a young age. It is an inspiring advice for readers to keep their heads up and remain hopeful even in tough times.
9. “If you want to know what a man’s like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.” – Sirius Black
This quote by Sirius Black speaks of the power dynamics in the wizarding world. It also serves as a reminder for readers to be conscious of how their actions can affect people who have less power than them.
Sirius Black has been a role model for Harry Potter throughout the series, and this quote encapsulates his character. It reflects Sirius’s core belief that one’s true character is revealed not by how they treat people on their own level but by how one treats those who have less power.
10. “It is the unknown we fear when we look upon death and darkness, nothing more.” – Albus Dumbledore
This quote speaks to the fear of failure and the unknown. It reflects Dumbledore’s character and wisdom, as well as his outlook on death.
It tells readers not to be intimidated by the unknown, to embrace death, and to be courageous even in the face of failure. The words also echo throughout Harry Potter’s journey in the series as he faces his own fears and doubts.
In the end, this quote serves as an essential reminder to take risks in life, even if they seem daunting.
“You Know Who” Harry Potter Quotes
The term “You Know Who” is often used in the Harry Potter series when referring to Lord Voldemort. This term highlights the fear surrounding his name and serves as a reminder of how powerful and intimidating Voldemort is. Here are some of the most memorable “You Know Who” quotes from the series:
11. “If I were You-Know-Who, I’d want you to feel cut off from everyone else. Because if it’s just you alone, you’re not as much of a threat.” – Luna Lovegood
Luna’s words are an insightful reminder that Voldemort is a master manipulator. He knows how to isolate his victims and make them feel powerless. It is a warning to all readers to be mindful of the people they trust and never underestimate the power of manipulation.
12 “Because You-Know-Who’s back, you tosspot!” – Ron Weasley
Ron’s line reflects his fear and dread of Voldemort’s return. It serves as a reminder that even the bravest of us can feel helpless and powerless in the face of evil. This line also highlights how Voldemort is able to instill fear in people, no matter how strong they are.
13. “And last year he really did fight off You-Know-Who in the flesh” – Hermione Granger
Hermione’s line is a testament to Harry Potter’s bravery and courage in the face of danger. This line was said in the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix when Harry and Hermione are discussing the events of the previous year with the rest of the students.
The students are preparing to fight off Voldemort, and Hermione is trying to reassure them that Harry has already done it once before.
Harry Potter Sayings and Memorable Quotes from “He Who Shall Not Be Named”
The famous “He who shall not be named” is perhaps one of the most powerful phrases of the entire series. This term is used by the characters to refer to Lord Voldemort and highlights how powerful his name and presence are.
Many are afraid to even utter his name out loud, so the phrase was used as a way to talk about him without actually saying his name. Here are some of the most memorable quotes from “He who shall not be named”:
14. “There is no good and evil. There is only power. And those too weak to seek it.”
This is one of the most powerful quotes from the series and speaks of the villain’s core beliefs. The scene happens when Harry is talking to Voldemort in the Chamber of Secrets when the two of them are discussing power.
This quote reflects Voldemort’s point of view on morality and speaks to the darkness that has corrupted his soul.
15. “It was love.”
In a powerful moment during the graveyard scene in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire, Voldemort explains the old magic that defeated him.
He reveals that it was love, specifically Lily Potter’s love for her son, Harry, which protected him and made it impossible for Voldemort to harm him.
Voldemort’s words echo throughout the series, highlighting the power of love and how it can conquer even the darkest of evils. This quote has become one of the most iconic lines in the entire series and speaks to the power of love in overcoming adversity.
16. “You are a fool, Harry Potter, and you will lose everything.”
This quote was said by Voldemort in the climactic scene of Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix. It is a warning to Harry that he will not be able to defeat Voldemort and his power.
But, of course, Harry proves him wrong. His courage and determination prove that Voldemort does not hold all the power in the world.
17 “I read something rather odd about a bit of rare magic. It’s called, as I understand it … a Horcrux.”
This quote is from Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince when Voldemort explains how he achieved immortality. The story of the Horcruxes is one of the most important plot points in the series, and the young Voldemort’s words reveal his ambition and determination to outwit death.
The quote provided Dumbledore with an important clue as to how Voldemort could be defeated.
18 “Severus. I was beginning to worry that you had lost your way.”
This line is said by Voldemort to Severus Snape in Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows. During a council meeting, Voldemort questions Snape’s loyalty after his late arrival.
The double meaning behind this line highlights Voldemort’s distrust and power. He is questioning Snape’s loyalty, but he is also questioning if Snape has stayed true to Voldemort’s cause despite the obstacles in his way.
19 “You’ve been a good and faithful servant, Severus — but only I can live … forever.”
This line was said by Voldemort in Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows. He is speaking to Snape after the latter has revealed that he is in possession of the Elder Wand. Voldemort believes that Snape will never be able to possess the power of immortality and is once again questioning his loyalty.
20 “Harry Potter, the boy who lived … come to die.”
This line is said by Voldemort during the Battle of Hogwarts in Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows. He said it while he was sitting in the Forbidden Woods, surrounded by his Death Eaters.
Unaware that Harry already knows about the Elder Wand, Voldemort thinks that the boy who lived is coming to die. But of course, this line ends up backfiring, as Harry uses the power of the Elder Wand to finally defeat Voldemort.
These famous Harry Potter quotes have become a part of popular culture and have been inspiring generations of readers ever since. From Albus Dumbledore’s wisdom to Voldemort’s ambition, these quotes can help us reflect on our own lives and gain insight from the lessons presented in the series. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a new reader, these Harry Potter quotes will stay with you for years to come.
So dust off your wand and take in these memorable words of wisdom from the Wizarding World! Who knows — they may just change your life. What are some Harry Potter quotes that have touched you? Share your thoughts in the comments!
