Filius Flitwick
Filius Flitwick, the diminutive Charms Master and Head of Ravenclaw House at Hogwarts, is a figure of considerable magical skill and generally cheerful disposition whose competence and bravery are tested during the tumultuous events of Harry Potter's sixth year. Though often associated with his excitable, squeaky-voiced manner and his tendency to be knocked flat by his students' mishaps, Flitwick proves himself a capable and courageous member of the Hogwarts staff when the school comes under direct attack, playing a crucial role in the battle and its immediate aftermath.
Role and Teaching Style
Flitwick is first and foremost the Charms Master, a role he fills with evident enthusiasm. His teaching style is earnest and encouraging, though he can be easily flustered by student errors. During a lesson on turning vinegar into wine, he chides Harry and Ron for talking too much, squeaking, "A little less talk, a little more action," before demonstrating the spell. When Ron's flask explodes, Flitwick emerges from under the table pulling shards of glass from his hat, yet he merely assigns practice as homework rather than punishment. His classroom is a place of genuine learning, but his small stature and high-pitched voice make him an easy target for mishaps; earlier in the term, Seamus Finnigan's misfired Water-Making Spell knocks Flitwick flat on his face during a lesson on producing pure water. Despite these indignities, Flitwick maintains his composure and continues his instruction, embodying a patient and dedicated teacher.
Role in the Battle of the Astronomy Tower
On the night of Dumbledore's death, Flitwick's role shifts from teacher to active combatant. When Death Eaters infiltrate the castle, he is among the first to respond. He sprints down into the dungeons, shouting about Death Eaters in the castle, and bursts into Snape's office to summon him for help. This action, however, has disastrous unintended consequences. Flitwick's call alerts Snape to the invasion, and Snape, instead of aiding the defense, Stupefies Flitwick, leaving him unconscious on the floor of his own office. Hermione and Luna, who were keeping watch outside, find Flitwick collapsed and, believing Snape's story that he had gone to help fight, do not realize Snape's treachery until it is too late. Flitwick is later found to have a large bruise on his forehead but is otherwise unscathed, and he reports that he will be "all righ' in a jiffy." His injury, however, directly enabled Snape to reach the Astronomy Tower and carry out the murder of Albus Dumbledore.
Aftermath and Counsel
In the immediate aftermath of Dumbledore's death, Flitwick is present in the hospital wing, where he is treated for his injuries. He then joins the other Heads of House in Dumbledore's office to discuss the future of Hogwarts. When Professor McGonagall raises the possibility of closing the school, Flitwick is the voice of procedural caution, squeaking that they "must consult the governors" and "follow the established procedures," arguing that a decision should not be made hastily. He also strongly supports the idea of keeping the school open for Dumbledore's funeral, stating, "Hogwarts should be Dumbledore's final resting place," and insisting that the students should be allowed to stay to pay their last respects. His counsel reflects a deep respect for tradition and for Dumbledore himself, showing that beneath his excitable exterior lies a thoughtful and loyal colleague.
Significance
Filius Flitwick, despite his comic appearance and occasional mishaps, is a figure of genuine competence and courage. His role in the Battle of the Astronomy Tower, though it ends in his being incapacitated, demonstrates his willingness to fight for the school. His subsequent counsel in the headmaster's office shows his wisdom and his commitment to Hogwarts and its legacy. He is a reminder that even the most unassuming members of the staff are capable of great bravery and loyalty in the face of overwhelming darkness.
