======Familiar======
=====Definition and Role=====
A familiar is a magical animal that shares an unusually strong, sometimes magical, bond with a [[witch]] or [[wizard]]. While the specific term "familiar" is not explicitly used in the seven original novels to describe such a relationship, the concept is a significant and recurring theme. These creatures are far more than mere pets; they often possess high intelligence, unique abilities, and a deep, loyal connection to their human companion, frequently assisting them in magical endeavors.
The bond between a familiar and its owner can be empathic or even telepathic, allowing for a level of communication and understanding that surpasses that of ordinary animals. Familiars are shown to be fiercely loyal, protective, and capable of independent action in service of their master. The nature of these creatures can range from common magical pets like owls and cats to highly powerful and rare magical beasts such as a [[Phoenix]].
=====Known Examples in the Wizarding World=====
Several creatures in the series exhibit the classic traits of a familiar, demonstrating a profound connection with their owners.
  * **[[Fawkes]]**: [[Albus Dumbledore]]'s [[Phoenix]] is perhaps the most powerful and loyal familiar depicted. He demonstrates his unwavering loyalty to [[Dumbledore]] by coming to [[Harry Potter]]'s aid in the [[Chamber of Secrets]], providing the [[Sorting Hat]] (containing the [[Sword of Gryffindor]]), blinding the [[Basilisk]], and healing Harry's mortal wound with his tears. [[Fawkes]] is also capable of [[Apparition]]-like travel and carrying immense weight. After [[Dumbledore]]'s death, [[Fawkes]] sings a lament before leaving [[Hogwarts]] forever.
  * **[[Nagini]]**: The large snake belonging to [[Lord Voldemort]] serves as a dark counterpart to a loyal familiar. Their connection is amplified by [[Voldemort]]'s ability to speak [[Parseltongue]]. She acts as his servant and weapon, carrying out his murderous orders. [[Voldemort]] shares a unique bond with her, able to possess her body to scout locations, and eventually makes her one of his [[Horcrux|Horcruxes]], demonstrating the ultimate level of magical connection and reliance.
  * **[[Crookshanks]]**: [[Hermione Granger]]'s cat is exceptionally intelligent, a trait attributed to his part-[[Kneazle]] heritage. He immediately recognized [[Scabbers]] as an [[Animagus]] ([[Peter Pettigrew]]) and [[Sirius Black]] as a friend. [[Crookshanks]] actively aided [[Sirius Black]] in his efforts to capture Pettigrew, stealing passwords and disabling the [[Whomping Willow]] for him.
  * **[[Hedwig]]**: While owls are common messengers in the [[wizarding world]], [[Harry Potter]]'s relationship with [[Hedwig]] transcends that of a typical owner and pet. She displays remarkable intelligence and emotional depth, often showing displeasure, affection, or understanding of Harry's moods. Her loyalty is absolute, and she serves as Harry's constant companion and link to the magical world, especially during his isolation at [[Number Four, Privet Drive]].
  * **[[Mrs Norris]]**: The cat of [[Hogwarts]] caretaker [[Argus Filch]] has an uncanny and unexplained connection to her owner. She seems to patrol the castle corridors on his behalf, and [[Filch]] often appears moments after she has found students breaking rules, suggesting an almost psychic link between them.
=====Distinctions from Other Concepts=====
It is important to distinguish the concept of a familiar from other magical phenomena:
  * **[[Animagus]]**: An [[Animagus]] is a [[witch]] or [[wizard]] who can transform into an animal at will. An animal that is secretly an [[Animagus]], such as [[Peter Pettigrew]] as [[Scabbers]] the rat, is not a true familiar but rather a person in disguise.
  * **[[Patronus]]**: A [[Patronus Charm]] produces a corporeal guardian made of positive energy. While it often takes the form of an animal significant to the caster, a [[Patronus]] is a temporary magical projection and not a living, physical creature with its own consciousness.
=====Behind the Scenes=====
  * The term "familiar" or "familiar spirit" is rooted in real-world European folklore, where it refers to a supernatural being, often in animal form, that was believed to assist witches by serving as a servant, spy, or companion. J.K. Rowling draws heavily on this tradition for the deeply loyal animal companions in her story.
  * While the concept is deeply embedded in the narrative, the word "familiar" is not present in the original seven //Harry Potter// books. Its usage to define these relationships comes from supplementary materials and the wider fandom (Pottermore).