Creatures: The Basilisk

‘Its methods of killing are most wondrous, for aside from its deadly and venomous fangs, the Basilisk has a murderous stare, and all who are fixed with the beam of its eye shall suffer instant death.’

- Chapter Sixteen, The Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

It is Hermione who first learns the truth of the ‘horror within’ the Chamber of Secrets, helping to solve the puzzle of the strange voice Harry hears in his second year at Hogwarts and the horrific attacks on students that have been occurring.

We encounter the fearsome Basilisk at the end of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, where Harry comes face to face with this monstrous beast within the underground Chamber.

Controlled by means of Parseltongue – snake language – the poisonous Basilisk proves a frightening and deadly enemy for Harry.

Our Pottermore Galleries have seen a number of extremely creative and wonderful depictions of the Basilisk and we’re sharing with you some of our favourites:















We also asked you, our Pottermore fans, what your thoughts on the Basilisk are, and whether you find it frightening or impressive. Here are some of your thoughts:

                                 

                                 

                                 

                                 
             (Tweets via @FArifeen, @Ducksaregroovy, and comments from our Facebook followers.)