1. Severus Snape. The question of whether he's really good or evil provides one of the most compelling mysteries in the series, and the powerful payoff is well worth all the suspense. The flashback sequences building up to the final reveal all give Snape's character so much complexity, depth and, ultimately, heroism that it's his story more than any other which really stuck with me after finishing the books.
2. Hagrid. I've got a thing for gentle giants (think Fezzik in The Princess Bride). Hagrid is Harry's first friend at Hogwarts, and while he may not always get things quite right, he's loyal to a fault. His love for all creatures great and small is adorable, while his devotion to Dumbledore is truly touching.
3. Neville Longbottom. I loved Neville's character in the novels, especially the parallels he draws with Harry. Of course, his role in the final battle - and the image of him pulling the sword of Gryffindor out of the sorting hat - is the ultimate Neville moment, and the culmination of years of quiet bravery and strength. (P.S. How fine is that boy lookin' these days?!)
4. Dobby. Not gonna lie, I hated Dobby at first. He's so damn annoying in Chamber of Secrets. But by the end of the series he's completely lovable - not to mention unforgettable. It's utterly gut-wrenching when he dies, made even more so by the fact that it's because he was saving Harry and his friends. It's one of the saddest moments of the whole series.
5. Voldemort. He's one sick mother chucker, but we couldn't have Harry Potter - or Harry Potter - without good old Voldie. My favourite book in the series is The Half-Blood Prince, mainly because of the insight we get into Voldemort's character. I love the flashbacks to Tom Riddle. But it's Voldemort himself - the twisted biatch he is today - that is most fascinating. He's definitely one of the greatest villains ever created.
Coming soon: Pash, Pick or Pass - the Gryffindor edition! Our contenders will be Harry, Ron and Neville. Stay tuned for the post and linky!
Who are your fave non-trio Harry Potter characters?
