The Fat Lady, the enchanted portrait guarding the entrance to the Gryffindor common room at Hogwarts, is known for primarily saying the password required for entry. Beyond her crucial role in securing the common room, she also engages in various conversations and expresses her opinions, particularly when security is compromised or she is disturbed.
One notable instance of her direct commentary occurs when there's an increase in security measures, leading to student frustration. In such a situation, she might express her lack of responsibility for the changes, stating, "That's the way it is. If you're angry, go and take it up with the headmaster, he's the one who's tightened security." This particular remark highlights her awareness of the school's administrative decisions and her occasional exasperation with her duty.
Her Primary Role: Passwords and Entry
Her most frequent utterances are the ever-changing passwords that grant access to Gryffindor Tower. These passwords are often whimsical or food-related, changing throughout the school year. Students must remember the current password to enter their common room.
Examples of passwords she might say or request include:
- "Caput Draconis"
- "Fortuna Major"
- "Balderdash"
- "Scurvy Cur"
- "Wattlebird"
- "Dilligrout"
- "Flibbertigibbet"
Other Interactions and Commentary
Beyond passwords and security complaints, the Fat Lady also engages in other forms of dialogue:
- Refusing entry: If a student doesn't know the password, she will firmly deny them access.
- Expressing alarm: She becomes notably agitated and even screams when her portrait is attacked, as seen when Sirius Black slashes it.
- Socializing: Occasionally, she can be found visiting other portraits or even having singing sessions with her friend, the portrait of a knight named Sir Cadogan.
- Personal feelings: She might express frustration, boredom, or even a sense of pride in her role, depending on the circumstances.
In summary, while the Fat Lady's primary spoken duty involves passwords, her character offers various forms of dialogue, ranging from administrative explanations to expressions of alarm and personal opinions.
