Newt Scamander: The Wizard Behind “Fantastic Beasts”
Who is Newt Scamander?
Newt Scamander is a fictional character from the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling. He is the main character in the “Fantastic Beasts” film series and the author of the famous book Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Newt is known for his love and care for magical creatures, his kindness, and his awkward yet charming personality. As a magizoologist, he travels around the world to find, study, and protect magical creatures.
Early Life of Newt Scamander
Childhood and Family Background
Newt Scamander, whose full name is Newton Artemis Fido Scamander, was born in 1897. He grew up in England, where he developed a fascination for magical creatures at a very young age. His mother, a breeder of hippogriffs, greatly influenced his interest in magical beasts. He was sorted into the Hufflepuff House when he attended Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Time at Hogwarts
During his time at Hogwarts, Newt studied magical creatures under the guidance of Professor Silvanus Kettleburn. Although Newt was passionate about his studies, he often found himself in trouble due to his experiments with magical creatures. In fact, he was nearly expelled from Hogwarts after a magical creature incident, but Albus Dumbledore, his teacher at the time, defended him.
Newt Scamander’s Career as a Magizoologist
Why Newt Chose to Study Magical Creatures
Newt Scamander chose to become a magizoologist because he believed that magical creatures were misunderstood and needed protection. He felt a strong connection to these creatures and wanted to educate the wizarding world about their importance. His love for these creatures drove him to travel to many different countries to learn more about them and to help protect them from harm.
Writing “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”
Newt Scamander’s most famous work is his book Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Published in 1927, this book became a best-seller in the wizarding world and is considered a must-have for every wizard and witch. The book lists and describes a wide variety of magical creatures, their habits, and their habitats. It also provides information on how to handle and care for them safely.
Newt Scamander’s Adventures in the Fantastic Beasts Series
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
The first film in the series, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, follows Newt Scamander as he arrives in New York City in 1926. He comes with a magical suitcase filled with various magical creatures. Some of these creatures escape, and Newt teams up with a group of new friends, including Jacob Kowalski, Tina Goldstein, and Queenie Goldstein, to capture them. Along the way, Newt uncovers a dark plot involving Gellert Grindelwald, a powerful dark wizard.
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)
In the second film, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, Newt is recruited by Albus Dumbledore to help stop Grindelwald from gaining more power. Newt’s journey takes him to Paris, where he faces new dangers, reunites with old friends, and discovers hidden secrets about his past and the wizarding world. Throughout the movie, Newt continues to show his dedication to protecting magical creatures, even when faced with great personal risk.
Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022)
In the third installment, Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore, Newt is once again at the center of the battle against Grindelwald. He is tasked by Dumbledore to lead a group of witches and wizards in a mission to prevent Grindelwald from taking over the wizarding world. Newt’s love for magical creatures and his bravery play a crucial role in the unfolding events.
Newt Scamander’s Personality and Traits
Kindness and Compassion
Newt is known for his kindness and deep empathy, especially towards magical creatures. He has a unique ability to understand and connect with them, treating them with care and respect. His gentle nature often sets him apart from other wizards, who may fear or misunderstand these creatures.
Courage and Determination
Newt is incredibly brave, often putting himself in danger to protect others, whether they are magical creatures or fellow wizards. His determination to stand up for what he believes in, even when faced with powerful enemies like Grindelwald, showcases his strong moral compass and unwavering sense of justice.
Quirky and Humble
Newt has a quirky and somewhat awkward personality, which adds to his charm. He often appears shy or uncomfortable in social situations, preferring the company of magical creatures to that of people. Despite his great achievements, Newt remains humble and down-to-earth, never seeking fame or recognition.
The Magical Creatures Newt Scamander Loves
Bowtruckles and Nifflers
Newt has a deep bond with many magical creatures, but he is particularly fond of his Bowtruckle, named Pickett, and a Niffler, a mischievous creature with a knack for finding shiny objects. Pickett is often seen perched on Newt’s shoulder, while the Niffler’s antics frequently cause trouble but also add humor to his adventures.
Thunderbird and Occamy
Among the larger creatures, Newt cares for a majestic Thunderbird named Frank, who he aims to return to its natural habitat in Arizona. The Occamy, a serpentine creature that can grow or shrink to fit the available space, is another of his treasured companions.
Erumpent and Demiguise
Newt’s magical suitcase also houses other fascinating creatures, such as the Erumpent, a large beast similar to a rhinoceros, and the Demiguise, a creature that can become invisible. Each creature has its own unique traits and behaviors, and Newt knows exactly how to handle and care for them.
Newt Scamander’s Relationships with Other Characters
Tina Goldstein
Newt’s relationship with Tina Goldstein, an American Auror, is a key part of his story. Although they start off with misunderstandings, their shared adventures bring them closer. Newt admires Tina for her bravery and strong sense of justice, and there is a growing romantic connection between them.
Albus Dumbledore
Newt shares a deep bond with Albus Dumbledore, who was his teacher at Hogwarts and later became a mentor and ally in his fight against dark forces. Dumbledore trusts Newt’s integrity, bravery, and unique approach to solving problems, often relying on him for difficult missions.
Jacob Kowalski
Jacob Kowalski, a No-Maj (non-magical person) and Newt’s good friend, brings warmth and humor to Newt’s life. Despite their different backgrounds, they share a genuine friendship. Jacob’s loyalty and kindness are qualities Newt greatly appreciates.
Impact of Newt Scamander on the Wizarding World
Raising Awareness About Magical Creatures
Newt Scamander’s work has greatly impacted how magical creatures are viewed in the wizarding world. His book, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, has educated generations of witches and wizards on how to properly handle and protect these creatures, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of them.
Fighting Against Dark Forces
Through his actions, Newt has also played a crucial role in the fight against dark forces like Grindelwald. Despite his gentle nature, he has proven himself to be a courageous and effective fighter, using his knowledge of magical creatures and his intelligence to outwit his enemies.
Why Newt Scamander is a Beloved Character
Newt Scamander stands out as a beloved character because of his uniqueness in the wizarding world. Unlike many other heroes, Newt does not seek power or glory; instead, he simply follows his passion for magical creatures and does what he believes is right. His gentle, humble nature, combined with his bravery and dedication, makes him a refreshing and inspiring hero.
Conclusion
Newt Scamander is more than just a character in the “Fantastic Beasts” series—he represents a different kind of hero. His deep love for magical creatures, his quirky personality, and his courage make him a standout figure in the wizarding world. Through his adventures, Newt shows us that kindness, empathy, and a strong sense of justice can make a real difference, even in the face of great danger.
