Garrick Ollivander
Garrick Ollivander is a significant character in J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series. He is the premier wandmaker in Britain and the proprietor of Ollivanders, a renowned wand shop in Diagon Alley.
Biography & History
Profession
– **Wandmaker:** Ollivander is one of the finest wandmakers of his time, with his family’s business dating back to 382 B.C., as stated by the sign above his Diagon Alley shop: “Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C.”
Wand Lore
– **Philosophy:** Ollivander believes that the wand chooses the wizard. He is deeply knowledgeable about wand woods, cores, and lengths and how these factors can influence and reflect the character and abilities of the wizard or witch who wields them.
– **Views on Power:** Ollivander admires power and strong magic. While he doesn’t necessarily condone dark magic, he appreciates the prowess of dark wizards like Voldemort in a somewhat detached, academic way.
Interactions with Harry Potter
– **First Meeting:** Harry first meets Ollivander when buying his wand for Hogwarts. After trying various wands, Harry is finally paired with a wand that has a phoenix feather core. Intriguingly, the only other wand with a feather from the same phoenix belongs to Voldemort.
– **During the War:** Ollivander is kidnapped by Death Eaters to make wands for Voldemort and to provide information about the twin cores (related to Harry’s and Voldemort’s wands). He’s later rescued from Malfoy Manor by Dobby, along with Luna Lovegood, who was also held captive.
Significance to the Series
Ollivander’s expertise on wands and their connections provide Harry and the readers with critical insights into the nature of wands and their allegiance. The Elder Wand’s subplot, in particular, is largely built upon the foundational knowledge provided by Ollivander.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ollivander’s view on the Elder Wand?
While he acknowledges its existence and power, Ollivander does not seem particularly drawn to its allure, unlike many other characters in the series.
Why was Ollivander kidnapped during the series?
Voldemort wanted information on why his wand (which shared a core with Harry’s) could not harm Harry. He also needed Ollivander’s skills as a wandmaker.
Famous Quotes
– “The wand chooses the wizard, Mr. Potter.”
– “Curious… very curious…”
– “I think we must expect great things from you, Mr. Potter… After all, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named did great things — terrible, yes, but great.”
Trivia About Garrick Ollivander
Question: What is the core of Harry Potter’s wand?
Answer: Phoenix feather.
Question: Which other significant character in the series has a wand core from the same phoenix as Harry’s wand?
Answer: Lord Voldemort.
Ollivander’s deep understanding of wand lore, combined with his somewhat unsettling admiration for powerful magic (regardless of its morality), makes him a complex and memorable character in the “Harry Potter” universe.
