Table of Contents

Apollyon Pringle

Introduction

Apollyon Pringle was the caretaker at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry during the time Arthur Weasley and Molly Weasley (then Molly Prewett) were students. He is mentioned only once in the original novels, serving as a predecessor to Argus Filch. Though his role in the narrative is minor, he represents a previous, harsher era of discipline at the school.

Biography

Apollyon Pringle's tenure as Hogwarts caretaker took place during the mid-20th century. He was on staff during the school years of Arthur Weasley (c. 1961-1968). He was known for being a strict authority figure. In an anecdote told by Fred Weasley, Pringle nearly caught Arthur Weasley and Molly Prewett returning from a late-night stroll on the school grounds, though they ultimately evaded him. According to supplementary materials, Pringle was eventually succeeded as caretaker by a man named Ogg, who in turn was succeeded by Argus Filch (Pottermore).

Physical Appearance and Personality

Pringle's physical appearance is not described in the Harry Potter novels. His personality is implied to be that of a severe and strict disciplinarian. This is consistent with the traditional role of the Hogwarts caretaker and the anecdote of him patrolling the grounds at night. He was a known advocate for using corporal punishment on students, a practice which was later forbidden by the time Harry Potter attended Hogwarts and which his successor, Argus Filch, frequently complained about not being able to use (Pottermore).

Magical Abilities and Skills

It is unknown whether Pringle was a wizard or a Squib. As the position of caretaker was later held by the Squib Argus Filch, magical ability is clearly not a prerequisite for the job.

Possessions

No specific possessions of Apollyon Pringle are mentioned. As caretaker, he would have held the keys to many areas of Hogwarts Castle and had access to various maintenance and cleaning supplies.

Relationships

Etymology

Behind the Scenes