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[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« on: April 15, 2006, 01:51:49 PM »


Created by Elle Dumars, Maire Dins, Yvette Musard, Gregoire Cartier, Dermod Larkin Morfessa,
Gwenyth Ferre, Charmaine Cloutier, Caspian de Sauveterre, Mateusz Dabrowski, and Nadine van der Linden *

Beauxbatons Academy(French: Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons)  is one of the three most famous and renowned schools of magic in Europe.  Fleur and Gabrielle Delacour, and Olympe Maxime are the named canon characters from this school.  This guide represents the administration's expansion on the limited information available about the magical academy.  As such, the majority of this guide is our own creative endeavor, and therefore, if you wish to use any part of it on another site, you must first check with the administration of Magical Hogwarts.  This guide is here to help you understand Beauxbatons and the backgrounds that were created by our members and staff to suit it.  We hope the explanations below will be extensive; however, any and all Beauxbatons Administrators can be approached with questions at any time.



School term begins in September and ends in June

Beauxbatons is one of the oldest and finest schools of magic in the world.  It is a proud and noble institute, rife with practiced traditions and values.  Beauxbatons students are predominantly French, but students from countries across Western-Central continental Europe attend the academy as well.  The school is the second largest in Europe, right after Hogwarts, and is currently lead by Headmistress Olympe Maxime.

The atmosphere of Beauxbatons is somewhat lighter, and the curriculum more focused on culture, than the other schools offered for roleplay on Magical Hogwarts.  Students learn about music, creative arts and writing, as well as how to deal with situations diplomatically rather than immediately using hexes or other destructive spells, though this doesn't necessarily mean that students will always behave in a mature and diplomatic fashion! Beauxbatons encourages all forms of learning, and the classes are less focused on wand magic than the other two schools.  It has been whispered that this is in part due to the growing numbers of discovered Elementals at Beauxbatons, though this is not common knowledge amongst most students.  Officially, Beauxbatons has a very friendly and welcoming attitude, although students of other schools often misinterpret the prideful students of Beauxbatons as being somewhat snobbish.

Despite its students coming from a diverse handful of countries, the official language in Beauxbatons is French.  It is spoken both inside and outside class.  The Beauxbatons professors and staff are very strict about all attendants speaking French at all times.  It is perceived as rude and exclusive to others to communicate in a language that isn't understood by everybody in the school.  Beauxbatons proudly follows French customs and traditions, and students attending the school will often feel a strong bond to the French culture and language, regardless of where they are from.  However, students are encouraged to learn about other cultures and languages in order to promote a greater level of understanding between neighbors.

Like the other two great European schools, Beauxbatons is split into different student houses. There are three different houses in Beauxbatons. They are Papillonlisse, Bellefeuille and Ombrelune; each of which has a Mousquetaire (musketeer), similar to Hogwarts' Prefects.  Generally, the houses maintain a balanced number of boy and girl students in each, and every year the three compete for the House Cup. Points are awarded to each house based on their participation in classes and extra curricular activities -- particularly Quidditch.  The house with the most points at the end of term is awarded the House Cup.

* Information on Beauxbatons for MH was developed on a development board with help from many of the general public RPers.  As it is impossible to name them all, the administrators in charge of Beauxbatons are credited in name, but our information has come from various sources who offered their input, and they deserve credit for their hard work.  And of course, Beauxbatons, the idea, is JKR's.  We just built up on it.  The original Beauxbatons Guide was compiled by Johanna Mueller, Delta Frasier, Derina Gimble, Genevieve Deschamps, Elsa Hansen, Elle Dumars, Maire Dins, and Peter Alva Tannenbaum.  Without their amazing hard work and dedication, Beauxbatons as a part of Magical Hogwarts would not be possible.

© 2006-2022 MAGICAL-HOGWARTS.COM ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Some Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the magical-hogwarts.com administration, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All copyrighted materials, meaning the notion of Beauxbatons Academy, are for the sole purposes of creating plots in the present Harry Potter universe. All rights are reserved and respected to their original copyright owners. No copyright infringement of any kind is intended. None of the writers, contributors, administrators, or anyone else part of the magical-hogwarts.com community, in any way whatsoever, are connected to J.K. Rowling.

1271 Posts played by MH Admin
[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #1 on: April 15, 2006, 01:52:39 PM »


Newer than either Durmstrang Institute or Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Beauxbatons Academy of Magic is nonetheless one of the finest and most progressive magic schools in the wizarding world. The foundation of the school did not come about as a result of years of planning and sketching on the part of some truly gifted magical architect, but instead was the fulfillment of a prophetic dream.

One of the school’s founders and its first Headmistress, Brie Papillonlisse, was born in Marseilles, France, in 1066 AD. She came from a line of French witches through whose bloodline the gift of Sight passed. Her grandmother, who had helped to raise the future founder during her early childhood, had been gifted with the Sight, but evidently Papillonlisse’s mother had not received the ability. Brie, on the other hand, was exceptionally talented at foreseeing the future from a young age.

At age twelve, Papillonlisse experienced her first vision. Though the girl was still extremely young, she would experience one of the most profound visions of her lifetime in this brief glimpse of the future. After waking up from an especially deep sleep, Brie described what she had foreseen to her grandmother: the Mediterranean sun casting a long shadow on the ground before a magnificent palace, a bastion of elegance and culture for the millennia of witches and wizards to come. The older woman determined that her dream was metaphorical and not prophetic, checked her granddaughter for fever, and dismissed her to bed once more.

For a time, her dream would remain unshared but not at all forgotten. Witches and wizards in France had received a temporary reprieve from the nearly constant persecution of magical beings that had been commonplace due to the incorrect presumption that witches and wizards were either evil, demonic, or possessed. Parents of magically gifted children, who had long since been taught to hide their abilities from those who might try to hurt them, now sought to find someone who could pass on their knowledge of magic to the next generation. Because of the widespread persecution, those who knew the various magical arts had gone underground and took on few apprentices.

Papillonlisse herself had been an apprentice to a great Seer in Paris during her young adulthood. Though she certainly loved children, and was both affable and attractive enough to marry and start a family, she remained unmarried. Instead, her focus remained on her craft and on the dream that she had when she was twelve. Somehow she understood that the children in her life would not be her own but those of others. Thus, she began to teach children who displayed magical promise once her apprenticeship had ended.

She returned to her hometown, Marseilles, where she taught a form of divination from her home that involved becoming in tune with one’s inner muse and allowing the Sight to guide one’s hand in creative works. Her youngest students learned to channel that gift into writing, drawing, or painting. Later, they learned to transfer that ability into the manipulation of clay or wood. In her most advanced classes, the students would learn to mold stone at will. In these lessons, which had quickly become her favorites, Papillonlisse would allow her creativity to fuel her desire to create that magnificent building from her dream. Her work during these lessons would reflect that wish, taking the form of a gigantic palace made of stone and clear glass with balconies overlooking an endless stretch of gardens and the sparkling ocean.

Not long following her return to Marseilles, Brie met the owner of the town apothecary. Bellefeuille was a naturalist who secretly dreamed of one day becoming an animagus. Roughly twenty years Papillonlisse’s senior, it would not be an easy feat for him to accomplish. In addition to his love of nature, Bellefeuille was fascinated by the art of divination. Their combined interest in the art had created a friendship between the future founders of Beauxbatons Academy. After a time they became inseparable, which led to the hopeful speculation that they were becoming intimate. However, neither sought love. Papillonlisse had come to feel that Bellefeuille was somehow important to her vision of the palace, and Bellefeuille hoped to see some glimpse of his future self in their divinations or even one of Brie’s occasional visions.

In the year 1100, the dreams of both founders began to take tangible form, and a death brought new life for three very different people. With the arrival of spring, Bellefeuille completed his first successful full transformation into animagus form. His love of the mystical realm and of nature took shape in his creature form, a centaur. Two weeks subsequent to this achievement, Lothar Ombrelune, one of the wealthiest wizards in Southern France at the time, died at his estate in Marseilles. His only son, a wizarding architect who had earned great fame in Paris, returned home immediately to care for his father’s final arrangements.

Papillonlisse had met young Ombrelune in Paris years before during her apprenticeship. During her time in Paris, Brie had preached tolerance for Moldus to the wizarding community in Paris. She had gathered a few followers who agreed with her argument that an entire race of people should not be punished for their intolerance of years past. Ombrelune had attended one of her meetings and had been singularly unimpressed by what he saw as a group of idealists who wished to treat the Moldus like a child race. Though Ombrelune didn’t care much about what happened to the Moldus, this first encounter between him and Papillonlisse paved the way for the future.

Wanting to pay her respects, Brie attended Lothar’s funeral. The reunion with Ombrelune triggered the strongest vision Papillonlisse had yet experienced. Unlike when she had experienced other glimpses of the future, she completely lost consciousness. In her vision, Papilonlisse saw Ombrelune kneeling in dress robes, digging a hole. Bellefeuille stood beside him, ready to plant a sapling. A noise coming from the ocean caught her attention, and the woman saw a crowd of children seemingly materialising from the shore. They rushed past her, causing her to shift her gaze back to her two male companions. When she turned however, the men had disappeared, and in their place was the castle from her previous vision, the doors of which flew open to admit the rush of students. It was the school of her dreams.

Three days passed before Papillonlisse had recovered enough to share her vision with her friend. She spoke with such passion and conviction about the three of them founding an academy together that Bellefeuille didn’t know what to say at first. He wanted to comfort his friend, but her dream seemed impossible. How were they to build such a magnificent structure? How would they ever get the money for land, materials, and labour? Ombrelune was anticipated to leave for Paris upon settling his father’s estate. Why would he even agree to see them?

Fate would have it that Ombrelune did agree to it, inviting them to brunch at his father’s old home. Upon arriving at the location, Brie was nearly brought to tears. Though the edifice was not as she had envisioned it, the location was identical to that which she had seen. She clutched her friend’s arm as they walked toward the entrance, whispering that this was the location from her dream and that fate had brought them all together for the purpose of educating the future generations of French witches and wizards. Though clearly caring for the woman, Bellefeuille was overwhelmed by how things were unfolding.

Ombrelune shared the other man’s sentiments concerning this project. He had not been fond of his father, an emotion which had been returned on the part of Lothar. Having found out that his son was born with the gift of Hypnosis, an ability that was almost always associated with dark magic, the older Ombrelune nearly disinherited his child. Such hatred had developed within the younger Ombrelune that he had often dreamt of returning to make his father beg his forgiveness. Being only fourteen when he left home, he had not the skill in his gift to overpower his father, but now he was educated and more experienced. Certainly he had had the power to sway the man, but somehow he knew it would never feel like a victory.

Thus, he had not seen the house in twenty years and had dreamed for many years of burning the structure to the ground. When these two strangers arrived with an adventure of such epic proportions, he was inclined to dismiss them immediately. While Papillonlisse and Bellefeuille found Ombrelune to be charming, attentive, and vague, he viewed them as unsophisticated by his standards. However, there was a passion and persistence about the woman that made him listen to what she had to say.

He had long since wanted to make something more of his life, to make something magnificent that would have made his father worship his abilities, and the building that was being described to him was nothing short of astonishing. Certainly he had his father’s fortune now, and he owned the land.  Papillonlisse even agreed when he half-heartedly suggested that this dream-school teach hypnosis. What did he have to lose? Something great could come of this school; perhaps his gift could be viewed with the respect that it deserved.

Thoughts of the grand creation filled his mind for months, so much so that he found himself drawing up floor plans and elevations for the palace in his free time. Soon, Papillonlisse’s contagious passion overpowered him, and he agreed to help them found their school.

With great pleasure, Ombrelune destroyed his father’s home. Upon Brie’s persistent insistence, only the cornerstone, which is still visible near the southwest corner of kitchens, was kept in the foundation of the new establishment. It took six years to build, even with magic, the six-story tall building with four eight story tall towers on each side. Up a short flight of stairs from the ornate and massive foyer, a grand ballroom serves as the main dinning hall for the student and staff.

Beyond the ballroom, stands the crowning glory of the academy, and one of Bellefeuille’s two great contributions to the school, a majestic, domed glass atrium where he frequently spent nights gazing at the stars with Brie. The second of these contributions were the stables, which were designed to be equine friendly with back doors to the stalls leading into grassy enclosed paddocks and a system to ensure that each stall always had fresh, flowing running water. Both as a centaur animagus and as a nature lover, his concern was always more for the grounds and animals than for the students that they were meant to be teaching.

Beauxbatons Academy of Magic was dedicated by the three founders on the night of the spring solstice in the year 1107. The dedication ceremony was small, some thirty students and staff present to witness the events of that day, given that the school had only begun accepting a few students, mostly young adults who had one time been Papillonlisse's students in Marseilles wishing to study hypnosis, architecture, care of magical creatures, herbology, the arts, and divination, before construction was complete. An elaborate picnic was held at dusk, after which the three founders stood together in the atrium to pledge their undying loyalty to all that they had created at the school. The ceremony ended with the three sending sparks up into the air together to signal the start of a magnificent fireworks display that Ombrelune had arranged on the water.

As time passed, the founders hired a larger number of professors, specialising in different areas of magic, as well as a larger number of students. The latter resulted in the expansion of the age groups of which the student body was composed, while the former resulted in the expansion of the syllabus to include lessons on basic magical skill. Nevertheless, the school maintained its reputation as the most advanced academy in Europe for the study of the arts, nature, and the social sciences. And so Papillonlisse, Ombrelune, and Bellefeuille ran the school for the next sixty three years. The towers of the palace became the residences, one for each house and the fourth for the staff. Over time, the reputation of the school attracted students from neighbouring countries, particularly those with wealthy parents able to send their children to a more prestigious school.

Bellefeuille, the oldest of the three, was the first to die, leaving behind him a last gift for the school: the elaborate cloak broach he had worn daily for decades.  After his passing Papillonlisse carried it with her, finding to her surprise that it wept whenever nature was violated on the school grounds.  The enchantment, though certainly sad, always made her smile.  It was just like her friend to think more of the trees and birds that called the school home than for the students it launched into adulthood.

Ombrelune followed him only thirteen years later, leaving his own gift: the small snuffbox he had always carried, though apparently full of dust and not snuff.  His instructions were that it was to be carried by the headmistress or headmaster of the school everyday and opened only in the event that the school was in desperate need of protection. The snuffbox made Papillonlisse weep bitterly, for Ombrelune had always cared more for the protection of the palace that he had built than for the children it served; for Ombrelune’s instructions were clear:  If the snuffbox were opened and the dust released, a flurry of shadow demons would emerge from their captivity, destroying any and all that would harm Beauxbatons.

With Ombrelune’s death, Papillonlisse was now alone to govern the future of the school in the way that she felt was best. For years the three had anticipated their eventual passing on, and heavy debate had taken place over what should be done once the last of them had died. No decision had been made by the time Bellefeuille made his return to the earth he loved so dearly, and though the two remaining founders had tried to come up with some kind of decision, the future still remained cloudy when Ombrelune died. The answer to the question that had eluded them for so long came just as every other important decision concerning the school had; Brie experienced a vision.

She sat in her office on the fifth floor of the school she had created from her dreams, thinking fondly of her companions on such a great endeavor. With the crystal meditation orb that her grandmother had given her on her thirteenth birthday in one hand and a block of wood in the other, the headmistress found it incredible that eighty years had come to pass already. Her mind wandered through the events of the past as the sound of the ocean hitting against the shore filled the room. The breeze from the open window brushed past her face as she thought of their dedication so many years ago, and then Brie's mind was somewhere else entirely.

She saw a multitude of young witches and wizards coming from the ocean, almost in the same way that she had seen them on the day she saw Ombrelune’s property in her vision, except now there were countless more coming from the shore. They each held identical golden wands. As they approached her, they stood and declared their devotion and loyalty to the school before firing off a line of sparks into the air, much in the same way that the founders had on the opening day of the school. From each wand came a spark of different color, one for each of the houses. And thus, the students were sorted into houses with the promise of service. In turn, the acadmie returned that service by instilling in them the proud culture of beauty in all its forms, spiritual, natural, and logical, that Beauxbatons represented.

The force of her final vision nearly killed the elderly witch. Some of the members of staff, concerned when she had not arrived on time for dinner, found her lying on the floor of her office unconscious. The block of wood she was clutching had been transfigured into a statue of the three founders, wands raised and tips together; this would later be replicated into the fountain which is still housed in the central glass atrium. The orb in her other hand was now glowing so brightly that it was impossible to look directly at it until after her death. The force of her vision had been so great, that it had imprinted on the orb a sort of echo of Papillonlisse’s experience and wisdom.

This final glimpse of the future had cost the seer a great deal of strength. She lived for another seven months, though rendered mute by her enchantments. During this time, she ordered a casket be created for the three items which would be left by the founders to their successive headmasters and headmistresses: Bellefeuille’s weeping broach, Ombrelune’s snuffbox of demonic guardians, and her orb of experience and wisdom. In addition, she had her wand core combined with those of the other two founders in a golden wand like that from her dream.

Before she died, Papillonlisse saw her final vision become a reality. Students were lead up from the shore to stand before the gathered students and staff. Facing the school, they pledged their loyalty and service to Beauxbatons Academy of Magic before raising the golden wand to send a shower of sparks into the air as an orchestra continuously played the school’s anthem. Later that night, Brie followed her friends into eternal sleep.

Papillonlisse, Bellefeuille, and Ombrelune left behind them a love, beauty, grace, and service that survives to this day.


© 2006-2022 MAGICAL-HOGWARTS.COM ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #2 on: April 15, 2006, 01:53:03 PM »




The beautiful chateau of Beauxbatons is situated on the shores of the Mediterranean sea, just southeast of Marseilles in the Alpine foothills. Since the school is located so far south, there is little use for fires, and the students wear light robes most of the year. During those chillier than normal days, students also have thicker robes. The average temperature in the summer is 24°C (75°F), dropping to 7°C  (45°F) during January. These are just averages though; it's not unusual for the July temperature to reach 30°C (86°F) or for it to drop to a frosty 3°C (37°F) at the beginning of January.  Marseilles, as well as Beauxbatons, receives its highest rainfall during the months of January and November.

The academy is, of course, hidden from Moldu eyes with many charms and enchantments. The chateau is in the baroque style, with a great deal of ornamentation both inside and out.  The whole castle gives an impression of fairy lightness, and the construction has an airiness that would probably have been impossible to achieve without the aid of magic. The castle stands six stories high, with a eight-story tower in each of the four corners.  Classrooms are located on the second, third, fourth and fifth floors on the East side of the building, and the magnificent and extensive library occupies the third through sixth floors on the West side.



The castle faces out onto the lawns which lead down to the beaches. Behind the castle stretch the beautiful grounds, with almost every sort of flower and tree imaginable. The extensive rose garden stands in one corner of the park, near the castle. The sweet-smelling herb garden is behind the castle, near the kitchens. The park has many trails, suitable for either walking or riding, and there is a river that runs through the grounds of the school, leading to a waterfall just at the edge of the property. The Beauxbatons stables house Madame Maxime's precious Abraxans, among other special horses. There is a selection of horses available for use by the student body, as well as space to house the horses of the students who wish to bring them from home.


Written by Ashton and Laura
Special thanks to: Lena and Sioban*




A short walk from the palace of Beauxbatons lies the wizarding town of Chatoeil. The town is a hub for the arts with an award-winning opera, symphony orchestra, museums, galleries, and a world-famous library. Rumoured to be the birthplace of the renowned playwright Malecrit, the residents are very proud of the town's artistic heritage and the town square features a large fountain that pays homage to the French playwright. The streets are paved with cobblestones and lit by gas lamps; there are many smaller winding lanes branching off of the few main streets. The natural harbour acts as a port for wizarding France, with a small marina that moors both pleasure-craft and fishing vessels, and a beach popular with both locals and visitors. Chatoeil has a few bars, but no nightclubs due to the town's noise curfew.
               

1e Arrondissement - Housing District
Private Houses, apartments, boutiques, bed & breakfast's.

2e Arrondissement - Garden District
Park, gardens, vineyard.

3e Arrondissement - Town Square
Town hall, fountain, the library.

4e Arrondissement - Entertainment District
Museums, opera, symphony orchestra, ballet, bars.

5e Arrondissement - Retail District
Café's, restaurants, shops. There is a short alleyway near the cemetery for 'darker' tastes.


A full overview of the shops of Chatoeil can be found in the more extensive Chatoeil Guide.

*The original Chatoeil Guide was compiled by Elle duMars, Maire Dins, Calantha Blount, Oliver d'Aubigne & Peter Alva Tannenbaum.  Without their amazing hard work and dedication, Chatoeil as a part of Magical Hogwarts would not be possible.

© 2006-2022 MAGICAL-HOGWARTS.COM ALL RIGHTS RESERVED[/SIZE]

1271 Posts played by MH Admin
[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #3 on: April 15, 2006, 01:53:30 PM »


Students travel to Beauxbatons by means of the school’s large, powder-blue carriages, which are pulled by winged horses.  There are several carriages that arrive at major cities throughout nearby Europe.  The horses and their carriages are enchanted to be invisible to non-magical eyes.  It is a peaceful, magical ride and has been a tradition at Beauxbatons Academy for many centuries.  Light refreshments are served on the carriages, and there is no assigned seating; as long as they are traveling on the same carriages, friends are able to sit together.  Rowdiness, however, is not permitted, and students are expected to be on their best behavior.  As disguising into Moldu surroundings is greatly encouraged, students are not required to wear their robes for the carriage ride.  They are required, however, to dress in their robes for the school’s opening ceremonies, and changing rooms and facilities are provided on board.

The magical ride lasts several hours.  Some carriages must be boarded earlier than others, based on their proximity to the academy, so that they may all arrive at Beauxbatons at the same moment.  Due to their strict schedules, the carriages are very prompt, and are unable to wait for students who are running late.  Pupils are expected to arrive on time, and if one happened to miss their carriage, they would be responsible for finding transportation to the school.  Tardiness is more or less unheard of, though, as those who do not make it to the academy on time face serious disciplinary action.

Students are responsible for arranging transportation to one of the pick-up locations beforehand, and arriving on time for departure.  Carriages arrive at hidden locations right outside of the following cities:  Paris, France; Nantes, France; Lyon, France; Bordeaux, France; Marseille, France; Brussels, Belgium; and Bern, Switzerland.  Each carriage has a capacity of 30 passengers, not including the carriage attendants.

The carriages make their majestic landing on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea at sunset.  Students are then directed to leave their luggage on the carriages, and arrange themselves in rows by age and house.  Pupils make their way up the sloping lawns to the castle, starting with the eldest, seventh years, and ending with the youngest students, the first years that are soon to be Sorted.  Older students seat themselves around the headmistress and the golden wand to watch the Sorting Ceremony unfold.  The Sorting takes place in front of the castle, and afterwards, students make their way into the dining hall for start of term notices and a celebratory feast.





The students that are members of this house are lovers of nature and have a strong sense of bravery and loyalty to all they hold dear. Bellefeuille students are caring and sensitive to the needs of the people around them; they are hard and efficient workers and are characteristically book-smart. The students sorted into this house believe the necessities of life are what is important, prizing family and friends above all else.

Bellefeuille students generally feel a strong connection with nature, are caring and kind to animals, and respect all aspects of flora and fauna. They often have a good and quick perception of the emotions of those around them and know how to act accordingly in most situations. Bellefeuille students are realists through and through, and whilst they may not be the wittiest, they surely get their work done. Those of Bellefeuille house may find physical activities more enjoyable than those that require logical thinking as they are often skilled with their hands, knowing how to craft different things.






The members of this house are very often those that prescribe to the concept of "the end justifies the means." They can be manipulative and cunning. They are very cool and calculating students who are very adverse to irrationality and prize people for making well thought-out and logical decisions. Ombrelunes are often good at more intricate or detailed subjects such as potions and literature, though they will happily study any subject they feel will benefit them in the future.

Ombrelune students are cold, rarely displaying emotion openly unless they see some direct gain in doing so. They are in the most ambitious of the Beauxbatons houses. They are very smart, logical and structured. They are very curious and interested in the world and the intricate way in which it works. Ombrelune students often strive for power and perfection more than anything else and are rather rational, planning to be the best at whatever they do.






The students who are sorted into this house are naturally gifted in the arts. They are generally thoughtful of all others around them as well as being kind and gentle. Some students of this house have a tendency to have a fluttery personality and are very sociable people, though at the same time they have a tendency to be quite spur of the moment and unpredictable. They are prized for their sophistication and surprising maturity at all ages; they consider beauty both of the mind and appearance above many other characteristics and are always striving to improve aesthetic qualities of life.

Students of Papillonlisse are often the daydreamers, hopeless romantics, those that want to change the world with their idealism and undying love. They often fail to see things for what they are as they are not the most analytical of all people. Those sorted into this house value the humanist approach to the world, often learning to become a better person rather than simply gathering knowledge. They can be introverted and focused on their own internal state. Papillonlisse students are often very emotional, bringing strong feelings and strong dedication into their work.



In the early years of the school, the three founders would personally interview each new witch and wizard. After the interview, they would decide which house the student would be sorted into. Each of the three founders spoke of their houses and decided together where a student would belong.

Bellefeuille, with his love of learning and tender heart towards flora and fauna, declared:

"Into my House I shall bring
Students that savour the scent of Spring
Things that grow, one and all
Watching the seasons turn and fall
In knowledge mine will also abound
And all will heed the forest’s sound
Nose in book, hands in earth
Mind and body combine for great worth."

Papillonlisse, an impulsive artist with an altruistic love of others, spoke her piece:

"For those whose heart is with their friends
Who believe that love will always mend
Artists true with hearts so pure
In my house they can be sure
With maturity beyond their years
Their fellows share their inner tears
Kindest souls are taken in
Dedicated, thoughtful, all herein."

And dark Ombrelune, whose mind delved deeper than the others into arts not discussed, responded:

"Into my house the others I shall keep
Those whose knowledge is different and deep
Purer blood is key, but more can bring
Sharp intellect and utter cunning
The ends justify the means they use
And will not tolerate those who lose
Cold in heart, colder in soul
Into my house the different may go."

After the death of Bellefeuille and Ombrelune, Papillonlisse ordered that the three founders’ wands be broken open and a new wand be created out of the three cores. This new wand was encased in solid gold and has become the "Beauxbatons Sorting Wand". Being made of the founder's wand cores, the sorting wand has great knowledge of the three wizards. It performs the task that they once did. Each student that receives an education at Beauxbatons has to go through the sorting ritual. This involves the young witch or wizard holding the sorting wand and declaring that they wish to be sorted. The wand then makes its decision and shoots out colored stars corresponding with one of the houses. The wand has been held by countless students over the last few centuries. It is slightly worn from its age, but is still just as important as the day that Papilonlisee died, which was the first day it was used.




The point system at Beauxbatons is very similar to the system at Hogwarts. Each house has their own cup that is empty at the beginning of the year. These cups are located publicly just outside the dining hall. The houses will have the chance to earn points all through the school year in many different ways. Participating in classes and winning Quidditch matches are the most common ways for a house to earn points. Likewise, disruptive behavior in class and disregarding school rules will result in a loss of points for the student's house. At the end of each term, the house points are counted up and the winning team is announced at the final feast. The house banner of the champions is displayed in the dining hall, but more importantly the students of the winning house are awarded bragging rights for the next year.


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[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #4 on: April 15, 2006, 01:53:59 PM »

created by Castor


At Beauxbatons, students are required to wear their uniforms during classes. Though they are preferred during meals and on the grounds, uniforms are less enforced after class hours. Students should take pride in their uniform. Due to the Mediterranean climate of Beauxbatons having markedly different seasons, students have both a summer and a winter uniform. These dolls were created by Castor (Alvin Hadditch) on bases provided by the Doll on the http://www.stvgr.net/dhf/' rel='nofollow noopener' target='_blank'>Hill Factory.












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[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #5 on: April 15, 2006, 01:57:46 PM »


Breakfast from six to eight is an informal affair, with students coming and leaving as they please. Etiquette is relaxed, so if the headmistress arrives students are not required to stand until she sits or tells them to do so. Breakfast consists of various hot drinks and fruit juices, a wide variety of breads and pastries, in addition to yogurt, muesli and whatever fruit is in season at the time. Savoury options include breads with cheeses and meats, pâté and other charcuterie products, and boiled eggs (hard or soft).

Students typically have two hours for Lunch, from noon until two in the afternoon. Generally, only a small portion of the time is spent eating, and students have the option of taking trays of food out onto the grounds, although they are expected to bring them back to the kitchens. The lunch menu varies from day to day, but is invariably healthy, filling and delicious. What does not change is the wide selection of bread available.

Dinner is a far more formal affair. Students are expected to be present and seated in the dining hall promptly at seven, at which time the Headmistress and professors will file in. Students are expected to stand upon her entry, and not resume their seats until she has either sat down or given them leave to do so. The dinner menu varies widely, sometimes taking on aspects of different regions in France and occasionally Belgium, Switzerland, or even Morocco and Tunis. Wine is generally served with dinner, if desired, to sixth and seventh year students and adults. It is expected that students know better than to drink enough to become drunk, and doing so is considered very crude by professors and students alike. The social stigma of doing so even more than the punishment which would result deters the vast majority of the student population from over indulging, particularly as many of them also drink wine at home and so are well aware of their limitations.

These meal times hold for all days of the week except for Sundays. On Sunday breakfast is as usual, but Sunday dinner begins at two in the afternoon and continues until the last student has left. Should students feel hungry later on, they are free to get a snack from the kitchens. The kitchens are always open for students to get food or cook something themselves if they so desire.

On special occasions, significant changes may be made to the eating arrangements.




Like most French schools of the time, Beauxbatons students have no school on Wednesday at all, but do have school on Saturday mornings. On a regular school day, classes begin promptly at eight in the morning, and run until noon with one fifteen minute break somewhere in the four hours. After a two hour lunch-break, classes resume at two in the afternoon and run until five o'clock in the evening again with a fifteen minute break at some point during the afternoon. On Saturday, classes end at noon.

Wednesdays are days which are supposedly devoted to catching up on schoolwork and extracurricular studying (including Student Services), however they have evolved into being heavily focused on clubs and Quidditch activities. Students third year and above also have the option of going to visit Chatoeil on Wednesday, although they are expected to be back before the grounds' gates close just before dinner unless they get special permission from their head of house.



At the beginning of each school year one student from each house is chosen to be a "Mousquetaire" for their respective house. These students are nominated by professors for being excellent, all around students. These students are given special responsibilities and special privileges. They are still expected to keep their grades up, to be good role models, and to represent their house well. Also they are responsible for helping the Head of House keep their students in line, giving the first years a tour of the school, and patrolling the corridors at night. Mousquetaires also secure the common rooms after curfew and tell their housemates the password.

Throughout the history of the school, Mousquetaires have usually been the students to excel the most. They keep good grades, have good morale, and are an example to the rest of the student body. They are an elite group and can only be nominated by a professor. Thus having this title on a resume can open many doors once a student has graduated from Beauxbatons. For their hard work, not only do they get the reputation and respect, but each Mousquetaire also receives a special item to wear with their uniform, a golden pin with an elaborate "M" on it. Though it is not necessarily required, some Mousquetaires choose to wear their pin all of the time, even when not in uniform.

Additionally, each year two students are chosen from each house to represent their house Quidditch team as Captain and Co-Captain, and are required to organize team practices, try-outs, and keep morale up within their team.

The current Mousquetaires and Quidditch Captains can be found in the http://www.magical-hogwarts.com/index.php?topic=115284.msg1000365785#msg1000365785' rel='nofollow noopener' target='_blank'>Positions thread.

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[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #6 on: March 23, 2009, 02:19:21 AM »


This is an initiative exclusive to Beauxbatons with the aim of getting all students involved with their community. This is an opportunity for the students of Beauxbatons, who are usually wealthy, to give back to the community that serves them. The school does not raise snobbish or bratty young people and this is how they do it. The Academie aims to educate their students to become kind and good members of the community with exemplary interpersonal skills. Each character will select a Student Service to complete that appeals to them and fits their strengths. Beauxbatons offers a wide range of Services that students can pick from so they can do what they enjoy or try their hand at something new completely. Below is a list of Student Services that are offered but if you have any new ideas, please feel free to follow them.
It is not mandatory to play out your character's Student Service, but it is encouraged. Please be aware, you will need to complete a minimum two class posts, participation in both Beginning and Ending of Term threads or a Student Service for your character to progress a year
Each Student Service post is worth 5 FPP Points, the same as a class post.
Your student is allowed to change their Student Service each year and they are not forced to partake in the same one continually.
Student Services run on a full IC school year playtime.
House Points will be awarded to students who take part, so it's a great way to get your House on the way to victory.
Please make sure you sign up your character in this http://www.magical-hogwarts.com/index.php?topic=163713.0' rel='nofollow noopener' target='_blank'>thread by filling out the form with their name, house, year and preferred student service.
You can get involved with other drivers to make plans with each other to get your characters paired up for their Service. You can, of course, have a group thread if you so wish. Here, you can also ask owners of any shops in Chatoeil if they'd be willing to let your characters help out through the year.
Please make your threads in this http://www.magical-hogwarts.com/index.php?board=192.0' rel='nofollow noopener' target='_blank'>board.

Each character who participated will get a shiny new badge for their trophy cabinet!

SCHOOL BEAUTIFICATION:
School Beautification includes, among other things, gardening duties. Your character can help out in the greenhouses, water plants in hot weather, prune the hedges and make sure all of the flora and fauna are happy and healthy. This Service also covers areas of school refurbishment, such as painting, cleaning graffiti off of desks, mopping floors and making sure the school is looking shipshape.

STABLE SERVICE:
Stable Service is just that. The horses and other magical creatures at Beauxbatons need to be exercised, fed, brushed and mucked out. Saddles and tools also need to be maintained. Madame Maxime's Abraxans are off limits.

LIBRARY SERVICE:
Beauxbatons' library is vast and needs to kept up-to-date and maintained. Tasks that need to be completed include mending ripped books, cataloging and keeping up to date records of the books the school has in stock, making sure the areas are clean and quiet, and ensuring that howlers are send out to students who fail to return their books on time.

STORAGE SERVICES:
Students here are required to make sure the school's supply cabinets are fully stocked. They are in charge of making sure there is enough parchment, inks and quills and other necessary equipment. Stocking and keeping track of anything from potions ingredients to violin strings and medical supplies is the responsibility of students who partake in this service.

CHATOEIL SERVICES & OTHER:
This Service covers almost anything else in the wizarding town. Perhaps your student would like to lead a painting class in the town hall or work in the gallery? Maybe they'd like to help out in Rebert's, the famed chocolatier. Maybe your character would even like to tend to one of Chatoeil's parks or harbour front? Maybe give a tour of the museum? There is absolutely no end to the possibilities here. If nothing catches your fancy, feel free to make up your own service to complete. Be aware, your character needs to be over 13 years old to be allowed visitation to Chatoeil.

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[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #7 on: March 23, 2009, 02:19:47 AM »


On Magical Hogwarts, only some of the classes taught at Beauxbatons are actually role-played out.  You may still mention non-played classes in your posts just as you might any other.  Beauxbatons has several original classes: Creative Arts & Literature, Hypnosis, Medical Studies, Metaphysics, and Music.  Below you will find a list of all classes offered to the students of Beauxbatons. Core classes are required from first year until third year, and become an optional subject thereafter.

The current Professors can be found in the http://www.magical-hogwarts.com/index.php?topic=115284.msg1000365785#msg1000365785' rel='nofollow noopener' target='_blank'>Positions thread.


CORE CLASSES

Alchimie et Potions ~ Alchemy and Potions
This course covers all material relating to magical mixtures and elixirs.  Students will learn the properties of magical products and ingredients, as well as how to use them properly in potions.  The class places a heavy emphasis on both French-invented potions and potions containing specifically French ingredients.  Pupils will also practice the art of potion-making in class, and will gain extensive knowledge in a variety of different potions throughout their years of schooling. One of the most notable French Alchemists who attended Beauxbatons was Nicholas Flamel.

Arts Créatifs et Littérature ~ Creative Arts and Literature
This class is more then just finger painting and papier-mâché.  There are several main areas of study: art, art history, art's impact on the magical world and of course literature.  Students will study the concepts of both Moldu and magical art and literature and their effect on society. Students learn the basics of creating art, but they also dive into a world of magical spells that take their creative skill to an entirely new level.

Astronomie ~ Astronomy
The study of constellations and celestial bodies. Learning about the planets, stars, and their movements -- and how the alignments affect other branches of magic, such as potion-making.

Botanique ~ Herbology
The study of magical plants, Botanique focuses on the proper methods of care and harvesting for all plants.  Students will learn about the properties of magical plants, the benefits and dangers of the different species, and will also delve into the preservation of endangered plants.  This class focuses heavily on, but is not limited to, magical plants found in France and the French region, as well as ingredients to French-invented potions.

Défense et Diplomatie ~ Defence and Diplomacy
Magic, for all its goodness and practicality, has a dark and dangerous side.  Beauxbatons does not focus on or endorse the Dark Arts of Magic; rather, it elects to teach students how to properly defend themselves from harm.  Defence is a class offered to all students, and focuses on everything from the counteracting of simple jinxes, to protecting one's self from dangerous creatures, to defending against complex hexes and curses.  But aside from defensive spells, this class is considered to be the thinking person's solution to conflict, and also focuses partially on diplomacy and mediation.

Enchantement ~ Charms
This class aims to teach fundamental spells needed to improve the overall quality of a wizard's life.  Charms is a method of magic used to enchant everything from objects to people, and throughout their years, students will learn everything from basic spells to complex incantations.  This class often requires students to think outside of the box in order to learn how to be flexible and use their magic properly in any given circumstance.

Histoire et Culture Magique ~ Wizarding History and Culture
A theory-based class; students learn about wizarding history, first in France and then across Europe, and eventually all over the world. In addition to history, pupils also study and discuss wizarding culture in different regions, including a non-biased look at blood status and the class system.

Musique ~ Music
Students will learn about music, magical instruments, and techniques to alter/use instruments with magic. Although theory is a big part of the class, practice is a much bigger one. The impact of music on the magical world will be topic of this class and as well as a comparison of wizarding and Moldu music.

Métamorphose ~ Transfiguration
In this class, students will learn basic and useful transfigurations of common objects.  To transfigure something is, by definition, to change the outward form or appearance of the object, altering it from its original state.  This class is based on theory as well as strict wand usage, and many students may find this to be a very demanding class that is not meant for the weak-willed.  The coursework covers everything from basic spells, to discussion of more complex subjects, such as Animagi.  Beginners will learn the basics of the art of Transfiguration, beginning with simple tasks (i.e. turning match sticks into needles).  Throughout their years of studying, pupils will eventually learn far more advanced Transfiguration, such as the ability to conjure objects from thin air.



ELECTIVE CLASSES

Arithmancie ~ Arithmancy
Sometimes referred to as "number divination", this is purely theoretical class with no wand magic involved. Arithmancy is a subject where pupils study the magical properties of numbers, including learning to predict the future with numbers and numerology.

Étude des Moldus ~ Study of Moldus
In the modern world, Moldus are everywhere.  It is safe to assume that witches and wizards will frequently encounter Moldu throughout their lifetime.  It is important, therefore, for students to gain an understanding and acceptance of their mundane neighbors.  It is crucial, for the sake of the safety and secrecy of the wizarding world, that all students gain the ability to blend into the Moldu world.  In this class, students will be taught all-important customs of the Moldu world; this includes everything from the use of Moldu money, to appropriate dress, to how to get around in various forms of Moldu transportation, to what is normal and what is not appropriate to talk about, and how to use some Moldu contraptions and technology.

Étude des Runes ~ Rune Studies
Rune Studies is the study of runic scriptures, or Runology. Runes are a form of writing that witches and wizards used hundreds of years ago. This class teaches the Runic alphabet (similar to hieroglyphs), and spends most of the time translating old scripts with little-to-no wand magic.

Études Médicales ~ Medical Studies
In this class, beginner students will learn how to prepare and serve simple remedies for common ailments.  Advanced students will uncover the secrets about more complex potions and spells.  They will learn to cure both magical and mundane sicknesses.  This class is not for the weak-stomached or the faint at heart.  It is widely known that the exams for this class are particularly difficult, so studying is a must.

Hypnose ~ Hypnosis
Hypnosis is one of the few classes taught exclusively within the Beauxbatons walls.  It is taught by a Hypnotist with experience in the field.  Students learn the practice and theory of a very old art.  Memory charms, charms to influence opinions, and even some music related magic is taught in this class.  Hypnosis is a very complex form of magic, and only the most dedicated of students will succeed at it.  Very dangerous spells are discussed as well as taught in this class, and therefore it requires a high understanding of responsibility.

Métaphysique ~ Metaphysics
Metaphysics is a mostly theoretical class, drawing from philosophy, magical theory and psychology. It is the objective of metaphysics to examine the nature of reality and the relationship between mind, perception, and magic. Students will learn how magic works, how to predict and calculate magic, and how to apply this knowledge to other subjects.

Soins aux Créatures Magiques ~ Care of Magical Creatures
This class covers an array of different magical creatures from all over the world.  Throughout their years of study, pupils will learn about everything from creatures native to the French and greater European area, to creatures found in foreign countries, and even ancient magical animals.  Students will study everything from the appearance, health, diet and sleeping habits, to the creature's magical abilities and impact they have on the world around them.

Vol sur Balai ~ Flying Class
Mastering flight on a broomstick is an important skill for wizards and witches to learn.  Brooms are one of the most popular methods of transportation in the magical world.  School brooms are used for this class, and all pupils are instructed on how to gain control of their broom (how to move forward, reverse, turn, gain altitude and dive).  In this class, not only will students learn basic broom-riding skills, but, because of the Headmistress' love of winged horses, more advanced students will be exposed to methods of flight on these majestic beings.





Students will be marked on the standard grading scale found throughout Beauxbatons, it is as follows:

R: REMARQUABLE
The grade ‘R’ is given to recognise the most outstanding students in any given subject. Class tests and exams have not only been answered correctly, but display an insight into the subject matter that goes over and beyond the expected. ‘R’ students often contribute thoughtful comments and insights based on class materials and relevant current events, often prompting others to contribute to the discussion as well. They listen to the comments and insights of others with respect and attention.
M: MERVEILLEUX
The grade ‘M’ is given to students in recognition of above average achievements in any given subjects. Most questions in class tests and exams have been answered correctly, and there are only a few minor flaws in the student’s knowledge. ‘M’ students regularly contribute thoughtful comments and insights based on class materials and relevant current events and listen to the comments and insights of others with respect and attention.
S: SATISFAISANT
The grade ‘S’ is given to students showing an average performance in class. Class tests and exams are passed; however, there are some noticeable gaps in the student’s knowledge. ‘S’ students sometimes contribute comments and insights based on class materials and relevant current events, more often at the instructor's prompting; they are generally polite, but could be more engaged in class discussions.
I: INSUFFISANT
The grade ‘I’ is given to students showing a below average but still acceptable performance. Class test and exams are barely passed, and there are serious gaps in the student’s knowledge. ‘I’ students seldom contribute comments and insights of their own volition; comments are not always relevant to materials or discussion at hand; 'I' students need to pay more attention to the contributions of the instructor and peers.
E: ÉPOUVANTABLE
The grade ‘E’ is given for below average performances. Class tests and exams are attempted, however not passed. ‘E’ students rarely and reluctantly contribute to class discussions; they comment minimally and/or disrespectfully; 'E' students are often noticeably disinterested in instructor's and peers' contributions.
A: ABOMINABLE
The grade ‘A’ is given for an extremely poor performance. Class tests and exams are not even attempted. ‘A’ students never contribute to class discussions and/or have demonstrated frequent disrespectful behaviour towards instructor and peers.



Due to some differences between the French and British school system, Beauxbatons students sit an exam equivalent to the Ordinary Wizarding Levels at the end of six years, as opposed to five years. Final exams are sat at the end of seven years. A sufficient cumulative average for all classes will merit the students' graduation at the end of the seventh year.


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[Beauxbatons] Académie de Magie Beauxbâtons Guide
« Reply #8 on: March 23, 2009, 02:20:11 AM »



(Pumpkin Festival)


During the autumn season, students of Beauxbatons may grow pumpkins to prepare for the Hallowe’en celebration.  It is a mandatory event for all first years, as a kind of initiation, but is optional for all other years.  Most students choose to participate, as it is a fun and easy opportunity to win points for their houses.  Each student plants seeds in a soil of their choosing, inside one of the spare greenhouses.  They may grow the pumpkins however they please, using mundane or magical means.

There are two main categories to participate in: Moldu-Grown Pumpkins and Magic-Grown Pumpkins, followed by several subcategories for each.  Both primary categories include the following subcategories: Largest pumpkin, heaviest pumpkin, smallest pumpkin, lightest pumpkin, roundest pumpkin, flattest pumpkin, most interesting shape, most interesting enchantment (magical-grown only), most natural pumpkin (Moldu-grown only).

Because Pumpkins take approximately 120 days to fully grow, in order for participants to take place in the Moldu-Grown category, the Herbology professor plants the seeds at the beginning of July.  That way, they would have time to fully mature by the end of October.  Students also have the option of planting the seeds at home, and caring for them until school begins.  There is no requirement for when a pumpkin should be planted; pumpkins participating in the Magic-Grown category will, with the aid of magic, most likely take much less than 120 days to fully mature.  On October 31st, the students harvest their pumpkins, and must have them prepared in time for judging and viewing.

For the first six categories, decisions on winners are made based on measurable qualities and are judged using scales, volume displacers, etc. to determine the winner the most accurately.  The last three categories, however, are voted on by the students, who vote by cheering for the pumpkins of their choice. Finally, there is the Best in Show, which is a final competition between the winners of each of the above-listed categories.  Winners are chosen by the crowd; decisions being made based on an applause vote, and points awarded accordingly. Best in Show wins the champion 40 points for their house.  Winners in each of the individual categories earn 10 points for their house, and every pumpkin entered in the event automatically wins 2 points for their house.

At the end of the festival, the pumpkins that are safe to eat are sent to the kitchens to be used in pumpkin pies, pumpkin bread, and pumpkin juice.  Those that are deemed inedible are enchanted to float around the castle over the course of the evening.  Later that evening, once they have all been prepared, the pumpkin dishes are served at dinner.



(Yule Ball)


On the winter solstice, usually December the 21st, a formal winter dance is held just after the end of the fall term exams. Ballroom lessons are usually offered by one of the professors during the weeks leading up to the dance, as all students are expected to take part in the traditional opening waltz. For the celebration, the Great Hall is decorated magnificently with a winter theme to welcome the coming months.  All of the tables are cleared out to make room for a large dancing space.  The Professors are expected to sing carols and holiday songs as part of the evening’s entertainment.  They always try to get out of it – that’s part of the tradition, of course – but are eventually persuaded into singing.

All years are welcome to attend.  Students usually pair up and bring dates, but are allowed to come by themselves.  Light refreshments are served for the celebration.  No alcoholic beverages are served by the school, but somehow, every year, Beurrebierre and Feuwhiskey manage to find their way in, and the Professors tend to turn a blind eye to this, as long as behavior doesn't get out of control.



(Feast of Saint Valentine)


St. Valentine's Day is a school-wide holiday for the students; no classes are held on the 14th of February in honour of the event.  Instead, students and professors have free time to spend as they wish.  There is a very calm and romantic atmosphere all throughout the school.  Owls deliver love notes and friendly messages between the dormitories. The Great Hall is set up with small, intimate tables at dinner.  The hall is festively decorated in honour of the holiday; the tables are donned in hearts of pink and red, covered in lace, and are set with candles and flowers.  The seating arrangements are prepared for students and their dates when they arrive, and they may order any dish their heart desires from the kitchens.

A dance is held after dinner is over, and all students are encouraged to attend.  It is more casual than the Yule Ball -- the dress is nice, but not formal.  The hall is moodily lit, making for a more intimate feeling.  Only slow music is played during the dance, and the older students may end up curled up with a classmate in a private corner.



(May Day Festival)


Each year, a traditional May Day festival is held at Beauxbatons to celebrate the return of spring, and the founding of the school.  A maypole is erected, classes are canceled, and students may enjoy a relaxing day by the ocean.  There are also competitions and events for all to enjoy.

The underclassmen (years first through third) may participate in the Knowledge Tournament, where they are challenged to recall practical information about any possible subject one can imagine.  Past subjects have included the ingredients in Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans, how to get a thistle out of a Mastifa’s shanks, and the best way to construct a sandcastle.  Usually the subjects are on inane trivia, but sometimes there are questions about things they might have learned in class or around the school grounds.  There is no way to prepare.  There are one hundred questions, and the competitors have one hundred minutes to answer them.  It is an impossible task.  The champion usually manages to answer between five and ten of the one hundred questions correctly.  Anything higher than a ten is an unusually high score.  The champion wins 30 points for their house.

The upperclassmen (years fourth through sixth) have a more daring competition to participate in:  a race on Madame Maxime’s Abraxan Winged Horses.  The course and rules change each year, but usually the competitors must each retrieve a specific object from a location specified by the judges and return to the starting point.  Whoever returns first with the correct object wins and gains 50 points for their house.  The course usually takes approximately one hour to run. The rest of the day is spent by the beach.  Food is served, and a carnival-like area is set up for the entertainment of the students and professors.


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