Prophet Article What: Daily Prophet Article When: July 16, 2024
Professors and staff at Hogwarts speak out about Mrs Malfoy's visit to the school.
As you recall, we mentioned that Astoria Malfoy, a recent candidate for Headmistress of Hogwarts, toured the school last Friday. We recently conducted a series of interviews with the staff members willing to speak with us to hear their thoughts on Mrs Malfoy as Headmistress.
The most unique and questionably positive review came from Ariana Silver, the Muggle Studies professor. "Oh, I believe Astoria would be a stunning Headmistress. The other professors have cautioned me that she might do away with Muggle Studies as a class, but I'm certain I could take on Pureblood Etiquette instead. I mean, if she can be Headmistress, I could teach Pureblood Etiquette, no sweat."
Several of the other professors were not available for - or inclined to - comment on the tour. However, a few other staff members were not so closed-mouthed. Caretaker Callum Quoft had this to say: "It seems to me the Malfoys are trying to put another feather in their cap. Parading around the school acting like they care isn't what students need to see -- a better example would be for a teacher who has worked from the bottom up to get the position. Unless the wizarding world wants to teach the kids that all you need is a mummy-in-law in a high position to get an important job."
The Quidditch referee and flying instructor, Oliver Wood, was a little more verbose on the matter. He suggested it was "preposterous" to consider Mrs Malfoy as headmistress, and bid us recall the last time the Ministry interfered at the school. "Dolores Umbridge shouldn't be a name that is linked to Hogwarts, and yet it is - but for not any positive reason. The last time the Ministry interfered with the workings of Hogwarts traditions, we saw a movement that was backwards - not forwards." He went on to add, "Instead of meddling into Hogwarts traditions, the Ministry should be upholding them - by respecting the written wishes of Filius Flitwick and appoint Neville Longbottom as the next Headmaster."
In what can only be perceived as a threat, he did state that, should Astoria Malfoy be appointed as headmaster, he would lead a mutiny by resigning and encouraging the other professors to follow.
Of course, there are questions as to whether or not Neville Longbottom is a sound candidate either. A little bit of digging has revealed a rather ruptured home life. With an out of control, unemployed daughter, an estranged wife, and complete disconnect with his son, we're left to wonder - if he cannot even manage his own family, how would he be able to manage an entire school full of students?
As the summer wears on, we'll keep you updated on the ongoing battle between the potential Heads of Hogwarts. With any luck, one will come out ahead - or step down - before the end of August.