"Harry, I'd like you to meet Eldred Worple, an old student of mine, author of Blood Brothers: My Life Amongst the Vampires - and, of course, his friend Sanguini." (HBP15)
Vampires are similar to humans except that they feed on blood.
Though not wizards themselves, vampires are able to mix somewhat in the Wizarding world – they occasionally attend social events (HBP16) and products like blood-flavored lollipops are marketed for them (PA10) – but a close watch has to be kept to ensure they don’t attack innocent bystanders (HBP16, DP2, DP3, DP4). Generally speaking, though, they seem to be feared by wizards. Lockhart bragged about subduing a vampire in one of his books (CS10), for example. Vampires are studied in Defence Against the Dark Arts (CS10, PA3, PA14, GF10).
- Harry has seen pictures of vampires in Defence Against the Dark Arts, but had never "met" one before Slughorn's Christmas party in his sixth year; their appearance is described as pale and gaunt (PA3).
- Treatment of vampires is regulated by the Ministry of Magic; they seem to be classified as "non-wizard part-humans" (GF10).
- They are hated and feared by many. One of the boys trying to impress the veela at the Quidditch World Cup claimed to be a famous vampire hunter (GF9).
- Centaurs oppose them (FB).
- Garlic is used against vampires (PS8), though exactly how might be a little complicated (PA10).
- They are associated with Romania and Transylvania (PS8, QA).
- Quirrell had encountered them in the Black Forest (PS5)
- Hagrid had a "sligh' disagreement with a vampire in a pub in Minsk" while on his journey to visit the giants (summer 1995) (OP20)
Thanks to Pippin for help with this list.
Commentary
Etymology
Vampire myths have existed in many different countries for centuries, most notably from Eastern Europe. The myths gained in popularity during the 18th century and particularly with the publication of the book Dracula.
