The 10 Best Albus Dumbledore Quotes from the Harry Potter Series
Graphic Design by Josh D. JacksonOver 20 years ago, J.K. Rowling introduced us to a magical world in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.* And what started as a small book release with only 500 copies has grown into an internationally beloved series with 450 million books in print.
We could go on and on about Harry Potter’s cultural significance (and how an entire generation is still waiting for an acceptance letter to Hogwarts), but if you’re reading this, then you’re already a fan. So we’ll skip right to the glorious nostalgia you’re seeking by offering a list of quotes from the series’ wisest character: Albus Dumbledore. Enjoy reading his brilliant musings—plucked from Rowling’s books—on everything from socks to bravery.
“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” —Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
“It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.” —Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
“The truth. It is a beautiful and terrible thing, and should therefore be treated with caution.” —Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
“One can never have enough socks.” —Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” —Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
“You fail to recognize that it matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be!” —Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
“Differences of habit and language are nothing at all if our aims are identical and our hearts are open.” —Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
“Numbing the pain for a while will make it worse when you finally feel it.” —Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
“Have you any idea how much tyrants fear the people they oppress? All of them realize that, one day, amongst their many victims, there is sure to be one that rises against them and strikes back!” —Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
“It is a curious thing, Harry, but perhaps those who are best suited to power are those who have never sought it.” —Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
*Everyone knows that we changed Philosopher’s Stone to Sorcerer’s Stone in America, which is why the quotes use the latter title.