Full of wizards, hippogriffs, mediocre writing and a lovable friendship between three Gryffindors, the “Harry Potter” series was a staple in the lives of most 2000s kids. 

The cursed position, teaching Defence Against the Dark Arts, was somehow the most valued among Hogwarts staff. The job had significant turnover throughout Harry’s time at the Wizarding School. In fact, Harry had six different teachers on the subject. 

While Dolores Umbridge was arguably the worst Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, there is disagreement over who the best instructor was. 

So, there is only one question left to ask: Who was the best Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher? 

QUIRINUS QUIRRELL

Despite the fact that he, literally, had Voldemort on the back of his head, Professor Quirrell taught Defence Against the Dark Arts during “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” 

His timid and nervous nature did not aid his credibility on Hogwarts’ campus, but he did help Harry and his friends develop initial dueling skills. 

GILDEROY LOCKHART

The flamboyant Gilderoy Lockhart was employed at Hogwarts during “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.” After an unfortunate accident and significant memory loss, he was dismissed from his position. 

What he lacked in skill and knowledge, he made up for in charisma, gaining the affection of most Hogwarts students very early in his time as the Defence Against the Dark Arts instructor. 

Despite being remembered as the ignorant and arrogant professor, Lockhart still managed to be appreciated by Harry Potter fans. 

REMUS LUPIN

First appearing in “The Prisoner of Azkaban,” this werewolf wizard became an audience favorite. From his affectionate title “Moony” to his assistance in creating the Marauder’s Map, Lupin is often seen as one of the best Defence Against the Dark Arts teachers. 

While there is a lot of positive sentiment for him, Lupin put Harry and the other students at risk with his werewolf ailment. His condition was contagious, but he decided to work in a very populated area despite his monthly metamorphoses. 

SEVERUS SNAPE

After waiting a multitude of years, Severus Snape finally secured the Defence Against the Dark Arts professorship in Harry’s sixth year at Hogwarts, during “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.” Snape’s passion for the Dark Arts was admirable and noted by many students in the books and movies.

While his memorable dislike for Harry and persistence toward the position remain, he has significant drawbacks. Most notably, the fact that he killed Albus Dumbledore and was a Death Eater. 

Snape’s presence throughout the series demonstrated his vitality to both Harry’s development and the overarching storyline. 

Which Harry Potter Defence Against the Dark Arts professor was best?

Results from last week’s poll:
When is the best time to put up your Christmas tree?

Black Friday – 42%

After Halloween – 29%

First week of December – 26%

Christmas Eve – 3%