MuggleCast: The Harry Potter Re-Read Podcast

Avada Cow-Davra (OOTP Chapter 21, The Eye of the Snake)

Apr 1, 2025

Tissues ready! There's a deep dive into the emotional rollercoaster of Harry's first kiss and the complications of young love. Hagrid faces challenges teaching Thestrals, with discussions on whether seeing death should be a prerequisite for understanding. Excitement brews over Nick Frost potentially playing Hagrid in the upcoming TV series, sparking laughter and nostalgia. Plus, reflections on Umbridge’s twisted nature and a funny look back at first kiss disasters keep the conversation lively and engaging!

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ANECDOTE

Hagrid Casting Speculation

Nick Frost, known for roles in Edgar Wright films and "Skeleton Crew," is reportedly cast as Hagrid.
The hosts discuss his suitability for the role, comedic timing, and potential casting of Simon Pegg.

INSIGHT

Importance of Hagrid's Casting

Hagrid's casting is crucial as he is the heart of the series and a fan favorite.
The hosts speculate on the casting prioritization, suggesting the focus is on key adult figures.

INSIGHT

Hagrid's Resistance to Help

Hermione tries to warn Hagrid about Umbridge's scrutiny, but he is distracted and unreceptive.
This behavior contrasts with Hagrid's acceptance of help in "Prisoner of Azkaban."

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Ben Hogan's autobiography

James Dodson

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

J.K. Rowling

In this book, Harry Potter is in his fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Despite his warnings, the Ministry of Magic refuses to believe that Lord Voldemort has returned. A secret society, the Order of the Phoenix, led by Albus Dumbledore, works to counter Voldemort's resurgence. At Hogwarts, Harry faces the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Dolores Umbridge, who is more interested in theory than practical defense. Harry, along with his friends Ron and Hermione, forms Dumbledore's Army to prepare for the impending battle against Voldemort. The story culminates in a dramatic confrontation at the Ministry of Magic, where Harry and his friends face off against Death Eaters, and Sirius Black is tragically killed. The book concludes with Dumbledore explaining a crucial prophecy that foretells the ultimate showdown between Harry and Voldemort.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

J.K. Rowling

In this novel, Harry Potter is in his fourth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The story revolves around the Triwizard Tournament, a competition between Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang schools. Despite being underage, Harry's name is mysteriously selected by the Goblet of Fire, forcing him to participate in the tournament. The book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the increasing danger posed by Lord Voldemort's return to power. The tournament tasks are fraught with danger, and Harry must navigate these challenges while uncovering the mystery behind his selection and the sinister forces at play.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

J.K. Rowling

J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" is the third book in the Harry Potter series. It introduces the time-turner and the complex character of Sirius Black, who is wrongly accused of betraying Harry's parents. Harry confronts his fears and learns more about his past, while navigating the challenges of his third year at Hogwarts. The book explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the importance of facing one's fears. It's known for its darker tone and more mature themes compared to the previous books, expanding the magical world and deepening the characters' relationships. The introduction of the Marauders' history adds a significant layer to the overall narrative.

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On this week's episode, grab your tissues because we're discussing Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Chapter 21: The Eye of the Snake. And speaking of Hagrid-centric chapters, it looks like the Harry Potter TV Show has found its Rubeus!

Harry Potter TV Show News: Nick Frost is reportedly up for the role of Hagrid! We discuss if he can pull off this pivotal role and what we know him from.
Chapter by Chapter resumes with Order of the Phoenix Chapter 21, The Eye of the Snake (gulp).
Despite Hermione's best efforts, Hagrid decides to teach a class on Thestrals. We break down the pro's and con's of this decision.
If most of the class can't see a creature, does that make it a bad lesson? Not necessarily! But Hagrid could've designed this class better.
What did Hagrid's 'shrieking cry' sound like?
Shouldn't there be some magic that allows those who haven't seen death to be able to see Thestrals? At least for research purposes it would make sense!
Speaking of seeing death, is it strange that Umbridge herself can't see Thestrals?
Should Dumbledore have warned Hagrid about what Umbridge has been up to at the school? Or DID they talk once Hagrid returned?
The second half of this chapter has a big Life Moment for Harry: His first kiss!
Was it Cho or Harry who made the first move? And how should Harry have reacted when she was crying?
We recount our First Kiss stories, and this week's Lynx Line asks Patrons if they had a bad first kiss themselves!
Quizzitch: Capable of reaching a length of roughly 19 feet and weighing around 28 lbs, what is the largest known venomous snake species in the world?
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