Welcome back to Critical Magic Theory! In this house series premiere, Professor Julian Wamble kicks things off with a deep dive into one of the most beloved—and most misunderstood—Hogwarts houses: Hufflepuff. Why is Hufflepuff both the house most admired and most maligned? Why do so many love it in theory but reject it in practice? With wit, vulnerability, and a touch of statistical spice, Julian explores how fandom has filled in the gaps left by canon—sometimes in empowering ways, and sometimes through romanticization that borders on erasure.

We examine which characters across houses embody Hufflepuff values, and interrogate how loyalty, fairness, and kindness can be corrupted when unexamined. The final reflection flips the usual narrative, delving into the dark side of Hufflepuff—revealing what happens when virtues are applied without critical thought. From Ernie Macmillan’s gossip to Bellatrix’s twisted devotion, this episode has it all.