Show pageOld revisionsBacklinksBack to top This page is read only. You can view the source, but not change it. Ask your administrator if you think this is wrong. ======Potterwatch====== =====Object Information===== * **Type:** Pirate [[Wireless]] Programme, Magical Broadcast * **Owners:** Members of the [[Order of the Phoenix]] and [[Dumbledore's Army]] * **Maker:** The programme was founded and operated by members of the anti-[[Voldemort]] resistance, primarily [[Lee Jordan]], [[Fred Weasley]], and [[George Weasley]]. =====Description and Appearance===== Potterwatch was not a physical object but an illegal, underground [[Wireless]] programme broadcast to the wizarding community during the height of the [[Second Wizarding War]]. It had no physical appearance, but its on-air format was structured to resemble a professional news and commentary show. The programme was hosted by [[Lee Jordan]] under the code name "River". It featured several regular segments, including news updates from correspondents like [[Kingsley Shacklebolt]] ("Royal") and special commentary from guests such as [[Lupin|Remus Lupin]] ("Romulus") and [[Fred Weasley]] ("Rapier"). To ensure security and prevent infiltration by [[Death Eater]]s or the [[Ministry of Magic]], access to the broadcast was protected by a password that changed with each episode. Listeners had to speak the correct password to their [[Wireless]] set to be able to tune in. =====Magical Properties and Usage===== The primary purpose of Potterwatch was to counteract the propaganda being spread by the [[Voldemort]]-controlled [[Ministry of Magic]] and the //[[Daily Prophet]]//. It functioned as a vital source of truthful information, hope, and morale for those opposing the Dark Lord's regime. * **Information Dissemination:** Potterwatch reported on news that the official channels suppressed, such as the true number of casualties, disappearances, and the identities of those murdered by [[Voldemort]]'s followers. * **Password Protection:** The programme used a magical enchantment that required a password for access. Known passwords included "Albus" and "Mad-Eye," both chosen to honour fallen leaders of the resistance. * **Morale and Unity:** By sharing stories of defiance and reminding listeners that they were not alone, Potterwatch helped maintain the spirit of the resistance movement. * **Practical Advice:** The hosts provided crucial survival advice, such as how to help and protect [[Muggle-born]]s and a critical warning about the [[Taboo]] curse placed on [[Voldemort]]'s name, which allowed the speaker's location to be instantly tracked. =====History===== Potterwatch was established in late 1997, following [[Voldemort]]'s successful coup of the [[Ministry of Magic]]. With all official lines of communication compromised, members of the [[Order of the Phoenix]] created the secret broadcast to keep the wizarding public informed. The broadcasters were constantly on the move, changing their location to avoid being captured by [[Snatcher]]s or [[Death Eater]]s. In March of 1998, [[Harry Potter]], [[Ron Weasley]], and [[Hermione Granger]] successfully tuned into a broadcast while hiding in the Forest of Dean. During this episode, they learned of the murders of [[Ted Tonks]], [[Dirk Cresswell]], and the goblin [[Gornuk]]. The hosts also discussed the importance of supporting [[Harry Potter]] and explicitly warned listeners not to say [[Voldemort]]'s name due to the [[Taboo]]. =====Role in the Story===== Potterwatch plays a crucial and symbolic role in //Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows//. It represents the "voice of the opposition" and the enduring power of truth in a time of tyranny. For Harry, Ron, and Hermione, it was a lifeline to the outside world, assuring them that the fight against [[Voldemort]] continued and that they were part of a larger movement. The programme directly triggers a turning point in the trio's journey. Immediately after listening to the broadcast and being filled with a renewed sense of purpose, Harry accidentally speaks [[Voldemort]]'s name aloud. This breaks the [[Taboo]], instantly revealing their location to a group of [[Snatcher]]s led by [[Fenrir Greyback]]. Their subsequent capture leads them to [[Malfoy Manor]], setting in motion the events that result in the death of [[Dobby]] and their eventual discovery of the location of another [[Horcrux]]. =====Behind the Scenes===== In the film adaptation, //Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1//, Potterwatch is visually depicted. The film shows [[Lee Jordan]] broadcasting from a hidden, cramped room, and it includes scenes of various characters, such as [[Lupin|Remus Lupin]] and [[Arthur Weasley]], listening in secret, emphasizing the broadcast's wide reach and its importance to the resistance. (film)
