Slughorn Ron Mistake: What Name Does He Use?

Professor Horace Slughorn, with his knack for collecting promising students, surely knew the Weasley family name held significant weight, but in the cozy confines of the Three Broomsticks, his memory took a comical detour; the Harry Potter series features this amusing scene. Ron Weasley, the loyal friend, finds himself on the receiving end of Slughorn’s accidental misnaming, a blunder that adds a touch of humor to their interaction and highlights the professor’s selective attention. J.K. Rowling masterfully uses such moments to inject levity into her narrative, and fans are frequently curious about what name does Slughorn call Ron in the Three Broomsticks, with many diving into fan theories and forums to dissect the possible reasons behind the mistake. The subtle, yet significant, impact of this moment in the context of Hogwarts social dynamics and character relationships further fuels the discussion.

A Case of Mistaken Identity and Murky Mead: Setting the Stage at the Three Broomsticks

One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative.

These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements of the wizarding world.

And what better place to find such moments than the cozy, bustling heart of Hogsmeade: The Three Broomsticks?

The Social Hub of Hogsmeade

The Three Broomsticks isn't just a pub; it's a social epicenter.

It's where students gather to gossip and dream.

It’s where professors unwind.

It’s the place to overhear whispered secrets, and where the butterbeer flows freely.

Its warm atmosphere provides a backdrop for interactions that reveal deeper truths about the characters and the world they inhabit.

Enter Horace Slughorn and the Allure of the Slug Club

Our scene is further enriched by the presence of Horace Slughorn, the newly appointed Potions Master, and a man with a penchant for collecting promising students like rare ingredients.

The "Slug Club," Slughorn's informal circle of favored pupils, represents something more than mere academic recognition.

It’s a gateway to connections, influence, and the potential for future success.

Slughorn's presence at The Three Broomsticks signifies a strategic scouting mission, an opportunity to identify and cultivate new talent for his exclusive club.

An Anticipation of Errors

But with Slughorn's selective eye and the already-frothy atmosphere of the pub, a perfect storm of mistaken identity is brewing.

The stage is set for a humorous and insightful incident involving Ron Weasley and Cormac McLaggen.

This is a mix-up that promises not only to tickle our funny bones, but also to offer a subtle commentary on the dynamics of power, perception, and the ever-present allure of prestige within the wizarding world. Get ready for the giggles.

Setting the Stage: Slughorn's Search for Talent

One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements in a comforting reality. Before the case of mistaken identity unfolds, it's crucial to set the stage: The Three Broomsticks buzzing, Slughorn’s sharp eye scanning the room, and the unspoken ambitions hanging thick in the air.

The Three Broomsticks: A Hogsmeade Haven

The Three Broomsticks isn't just another pub; it's a cultural landmark for Hogwarts students. Imagine stepping out of the brisk Hogsmeade air into a haven filled with warm chatter, the clinking of glasses, and the comforting aroma of butterbeer.

It's a place where students can momentarily escape the pressures of studies and Quidditch rivalries. The atmosphere is perpetually buzzing, creating a vibrant backdrop for the social dramas that inevitably unfold within its walls. This cozy and bustling environment sets the perfect scene for Slughorn's talent scouting.

Slughorn's Agenda: Connections and Potential

Horace Slughorn, with his penchant for surrounding himself with promising students, arrives at The Three Broomsticks with a clear agenda: to identify and recruit new members for his exclusive "Slug Club."

His motives are transparent, yet undeniably strategic. He seeks students who possess not only innate talent but also valuable connections, believing that these individuals are destined for greatness. Slughorn's desire to cultivate relationships with the future elite of the wizarding world is a driving force in this scene.

Assessing the Prospects: A Keen Eye with a Flaw

Slughorn, with years of experience discerning potential, casts a sharp eye across the pub's patrons. He's searching for that spark, that je ne sais quoi, that indicates a student is destined for greatness.

However, his assessment isn’t always flawless. As we'll see, his keen eye is sometimes clouded by his own biases and perhaps, just a touch of vanity. This initial assessment, though meticulous, is where the seeds of confusion are sown, ultimately leading to the humorous mix-up.

The Blunder Unfolds: Ron Weasley Confused for Cormac McLaggen

One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements in a comforting reality. Slughorn's case of mistaken identity, where Ron Weasley is confused for Cormac McLaggen, is a perfect example of this, and deserves a closer look.

The Precise Moment of Confusion

The scene unfolds with Slughorn holding court at the Three Broomsticks. He's there to, shall we say, recruit promising students for his Slug Club. His eyes scan the room, assessing potential candidates.

Then, it happens.

In a moment of pure comedic brilliance, Slughorn approaches Ron, mistaking him for Cormac. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment, fueled by a possible memory lapse (or perhaps wishful thinking on Slughorn's part). He probably thought he saw what he wanted to see.

The exact phrase or gesture that triggers the confusion isn’t explicitly stated, which adds to the humor. It's the assumption itself that's funny.

Analyzing the Visual Cues: What Slughorn Thought He Saw

So, what could have led to this epic mix-up? Was it a trick of the light? A shared hair color? Or simply Slughorn's eagerness blinding him to reality? Let's break it down:

Similarities (or Lack Thereof)

Ron and Cormac, physically, aren't carbon copies. Cormac is portrayed as being rather large and robust, embodying traditional good looks.

Ron, on the other hand, is often described as lanky, freckled, and somewhat awkward.

Slughorn's Selective Vision

Perhaps Slughorn was so focused on finding a student with McLaggen's connections and supposed Quidditch prowess that he projected those qualities onto Ron. This says a lot about Slughorn's priorities.

It suggests that he might value status and connections over actual individual merit.

The Power of Suggestion (and a Pint or Two)

The atmosphere of the Three Broomsticks likely played a role, too. With the buzz of conversation, the dim lighting, and perhaps a butterbeer or two loosening Slughorn’s inhibitions, it’s easy to see how a simple case of mistaken identity could occur.

It's a reminder that even the most esteemed wizards are prone to human error! This makes the scene more relatable and hilarious. The comedy lies in the truth that we can all be a bit silly at times.

Ron's Reaction: Flattered, Annoyed, or Just Confused?

One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements in a certain reality.

Amongst all the chaos, a question arises: how does Ron, ever the loyal friend and surprisingly complex character, really feel about being mistaken for someone he's likely competing with?

The Initial Sting of Misidentification

Ron Weasley, bless his heart, often struggles with feelings of inadequacy. He's constantly overshadowed by his best friends, Harry and Hermione.

It's easy to imagine that the initial reaction to being confused with Cormac McLaggen might be a sting of insecurity.

Cormac, with his booming voice and Quidditch prowess, represents a certain ideal of success that Ron often feels he falls short of.

A Momentary Ego Boost?

However, there's another side to this coin. Could Ron, even for a fleeting moment, experience a surge of pride?

Being mistaken for someone Slughorn clearly deems worthy of attention is a validation, however misguided. It's a sign that perhaps he, too, possesses some of the qualities that attract the "Slug Club."

This momentary ego boost could be a welcome change for Ron, who frequently finds himself in the shadows.

Navigating the Awkwardness

Let's not forget the sheer awkwardness of the situation. Ron isn't one to gracefully navigate social complexities.

He's more likely to stumble through with a mix of mumbled replies and bewildered expressions.

Imagine him, trying to maintain the facade of being McLaggen, perhaps even mimicking some of Cormac's mannerisms in a hilariously misguided attempt to not blow his cover.

This social clumsiness is a signature Ron trait and adds to the comedic appeal of the entire scene.

Slughorn's Influence: A Shift in Perspective?

The bigger question is: does this interaction shift Ron's perception of Slughorn? Slughorn is known for selecting favorites.

If Ron believes that Slughorn genuinely sees potential in him (even if it's based on a mistake), does this change his opinion of the professor?

Perhaps he begins to see Slughorn not just as an authority figure, but as someone who might recognize his worth.

This could lead Ron to work harder, striving to prove that he is worthy of Slughorn's attention, regardless of the initial misidentification. Or, it might fuel his insecurities.

The Lingering Confusion

Ultimately, the most likely scenario is a potent cocktail of all three emotions: flattery, annoyance, and confusion.

Ron is a complex character. He isn't easily defined by a single feeling.

He is capable of experiencing a range of emotions simultaneously.

The mix-up at the Three Broomsticks likely leaves him bewildered, slightly puffed up, and perhaps a tad resentful. This perfectly encapsulates the essence of Ron Weasley.

And honestly, isn't that just like real life? We are all a little bit confused, flattered, and annoyed, all at the same time.

Ron's Reaction: Flattered, Annoyed, or Just Confused? One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements in a certain reality, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. Understanding the context and the players involved is critical to fully appreciate the situation at hand.

Cormac McLaggen: Understanding Slughorn's (Mis)Perception

To truly grasp why Slughorn might have momentarily confused Ron for Cormac, we need to delve into the character of Cormac McLaggen himself. It's not just about the physical resemblance (or lack thereof); it's about reputation, perception, and Slughorn's very particular brand of social calculus.

McLaggen's Hogwart's Persona: Confidence and Connections

Cormac McLaggen is, shall we say, not known for his humility. He exudes a level of confidence that borders on arrogance, a trait that likely made him stand out, for better or worse, to a professor like Slughorn.

He's the kind of student who knows he's destined for greatness, and isn't afraid to let others know it too.

He is the epitome of someone who carries themselves with a profound belief that he is the best.

This confidence can be perceived as both a strength and a weakness, but it certainly makes an impression.

Quidditch Prowess and Political Pedigree

Beyond his personality, McLaggen's appeal to Slughorn likely stemmed from his Quidditch skills and family connections. He's a talented Quidditch player, vying for the Keeper position on the Gryffindor team.

In the wizarding world, Quidditch isn't just a sport; it's a pathway to fame, glory, and potentially, political influence.

Moreover, McLaggen hails from a well-connected family within the Ministry of Magic. Slughorn, always keen to cultivate relationships with influential figures, would undoubtedly see McLaggen as a valuable contact.

These details, combined with his ambitious nature, make McLaggen a prime candidate for Slughorn's "Slug Club".

The Mix-Up: More Than Just a Mistake

So, how do these factors make the mix-up understandable, and dare we say, even funnier? Slughorn, in his eagerness to identify and ingratiate himself with promising students, may have been operating under a certain confirmation bias.

He expected to see someone with McLaggen's swagger and connections, and perhaps, in his mind, he saw what he wanted to see.

It's a humorous reminder that even seasoned professors can fall prey to their own biases and expectations. The fact that Slughorn, a generally perceptive and calculating individual, makes such a blatant error adds an extra layer of comedic irony to the scene.

It underscores the idea that even the most discerning individuals can sometimes be blinded by their own preconceived notions. This makes the error itself a telling glimpse into Slughorn's priorities and mindset.

Harry Potter's Observation: Witnessing the Faux Pas

One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements in a certain reality.

In the midst of the Slughorn/Ron/Cormac mix-up at the Three Broomsticks, Harry Potter occupies a unique vantage point – that of the observer. His perspective adds another layer to the comedic scene.

The Boy Who Watched

Harry isn't directly involved in the conversation between Slughorn and the mistaken Ron. He's there, present, taking it all in. This position as a silent witness is crucial.

It allows the reader to experience the awkwardness unfold through his eyes. We see Slughorn's blunder, and Ron's reaction, filtered through Harry's perception.

Harry’s internal monologue, even if not explicitly stated, colors the entire scene. He knows both Ron and Cormac intimately, perhaps better than Slughorn ever could.

Amusement or Something More?

So, how does Harry react? Is he simply amused by the professor's mistake? Is there a hint of confusion, or perhaps even a touch of annoyance?

It’s likely a cocktail of emotions. Harry probably finds the situation funny, because, let's be honest, it is funny.

But it’s also possible he feels a twinge of something else. Harry is fiercely loyal to his friends.

Seeing Ron potentially being used, even unwittingly, by Slughorn might not sit entirely well.

Understanding the Players

Harry’s deep understanding of both Ron and Cormac adds significant nuance. He knows Ron’s insecurities, his longing for recognition.

He also knows Cormac’s arrogance, his thirst for the spotlight. Knowing these characters well makes it that much more awkward.

Harry is well aware that Ron is often overlooked, underestimated, and overshadowed. Slughorn mistaking him for someone like McLaggen highlights this dynamic.

This isn't just a random error; it's a reflection of the social hierarchies and biases that exist even within the wizarding world.

For Harry, witnessing this faux pas isn't just a source of amusement. It’s a reminder of the complexities of friendship, ambition, and the sometimes-uncomfortable truths of the world around him.

It’s a small moment, yes, but it speaks volumes about the characters and the world they inhabit.

Contextualizing the Confusion: Favoritism and Expectations at Hogwarts

One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements in a certain reality. The Slughorn/Ron/Cormac mix-up is a perfect example, but it's not just funny. It also reflects some of the more complicated social dynamics bubbling beneath the surface at Hogwarts.

Hogwarts: A Microcosm of the Wizarding World's Social Hierarchy

Hogwarts isn’t just a school; it’s a training ground for the wizarding world's elite. It’s where future leaders, innovators, and influential figures are molded. Consequently, the social hierarchies and biases of the wider wizarding community are often mirrored within its walls, and Slughorn's actions perfectly illustrate this.

The Stain of Favoritism

Slughorn's "Slug Club" is the embodiment of favoritism. He openly selects students based on their connections, talents, or perceived potential, creating an exclusive circle.

This isn't necessarily malicious, but it certainly creates an uneven playing field. Those who are already privileged receive even more opportunities and attention.

Ron's initial resentment towards McLaggen stems not only from personal rivalry but also from a deeper awareness of this inherent unfairness. He knows Cormac benefits from connections he simply doesn't have.

Social Climbing: A Not-So-Secret Ambition

The wizarding world, like any society, has its share of social climbers. The Three Broomsticks incident highlights the subtle, yet persistent, undercurrent of ambition at Hogwarts. Students are aware of the benefits of associating with influential figures like Slughorn.

Networking Your Way to Success

McLaggen, for example, seems keenly aware of his family's status and isn't shy about leveraging it. His confidence and eagerness to impress Slughorn can be interpreted as a form of social climbing, which is why Slughorn mistaking Ron for McLaggen carries a certain comedic irony.

Slughorn is essentially trying to recruit someone who is already trying to impress him.

The Weight of Expectation

Hogwarts places immense pressure on its students. They aren't just learning spells; they are preparing to take their place in wizarding society. This pressure is amplified for students like McLaggen, who come from established families with reputations to uphold.

Living Up to the Name

The expectation to succeed, to excel, and to maintain the family legacy can be overwhelming. It's a different kind of pressure than Harry faces, but it's pressure nonetheless. Slughorn's interest, while potentially beneficial, only adds to this burden.

Even Ron, despite lacking McLaggen’s pedigree, feels the pressure to prove himself worthy, especially in the shadow of his accomplished brothers.

The mistaken identity, therefore, throws these expectations into sharp relief, highlighting the absurdity of judging individuals based on superficial assumptions and the underlying anxieties that fuel the social dynamics of Hogwarts.

The Aftermath: Slughorn's Response and the Ripple Effect

One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements and make the characters all the more believable. But what happens after the blunder? How does Slughorn, a master of social maneuvering, navigate the fallout of mistaking Ron for McLaggen? The answer lies in a complex interplay of damage control, favoritism, and the ever-present dynamics of Hogwarts.

Damage Control: A Subtle Shift in Strategy

Let's be honest, Slughorn is no fool. While the initial confusion may stem from a genuine memory lapse or a misjudgment of character, he’s astute enough to recognize when he’s made a gaffe. The real question is how he attempts to rectify it.

Does he directly address the mistake? Unlikely. Slughorn is all about appearances, and admitting such a blunder would be a blow to his carefully cultivated image.

Instead, we might see a subtle shift in his approach. Perhaps he attempts to show slightly more interest in Ron, trying to compensate for the initial misidentification without explicitly acknowledging it.

This could manifest as a passing comment about Ron's Quidditch skills (or lack thereof!), a seemingly casual inquiry about his family, or even just a more attentive nod during class.

The Impact on Ron: A Glimmer of Recognition

For Ron, the impact of this "near Slug Club" experience is multi-faceted. On one hand, it’s a validation – a fleeting moment where he's perceived as someone important, someone worthy of Slughorn's attention.

This is especially significant for Ron, who often feels overshadowed by his more accomplished siblings and his famous best friend.

However, this momentary recognition is tainted by the knowledge that it's based on a false premise. He wasn't chosen for who he is, but for who Slughorn thought he was.

This realization likely fuels his existing insecurities and reinforces his perception of being perpetually overlooked. Does it make him try harder? Maybe. Does it sting? Almost certainly.

McLaggen's Perspective: An Ego Slightly Bruised

And what about Cormac McLaggen? While initially the intended target of Slughorn's admiration, he likely observes the professor's subtle attempts to smooth things over with Ron.

This could lead to a simmering resentment or, more likely, a doubling down on his efforts to impress Slughorn. McLaggen, after all, is not one to back down from a challenge, especially when it comes to asserting his perceived superiority.

Perhaps he becomes even more boastful about his Quidditch prowess or more insistent on showcasing his connections, inadvertently revealing the shallowness of his ambition.

Favoritism and Opportunity: The Real Lesson

Ultimately, the aftermath of Slughorn's mistake highlights the pervasive nature of favoritism within the wizarding world. It underscores the importance placed on lineage, connections, and perceived potential, often at the expense of genuine talent and hard work.

This incident, though humorous on the surface, serves as a microcosm of the larger social dynamics at play in Hogwarts and beyond.

It’s a reminder that appearances can be deceiving, and that even the most astute observers can be swayed by preconceived notions and the allure of prestige. The real lesson? Sometimes, the greatest opportunities arise from the most unexpected blunders.

Mistaken Identity as a Catalyst: Character Development and Plot Progression

[The Aftermath: Slughorn's Response and the Ripple Effect One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and relatable foibles, serve to ground the fantastical elements and make the characters feel real and accessible. But do these moments only serve the purpose of being funny? Or can they be surprisingly important in shaping character development and driving the plot forward? Let's take a deeper look.

Ron's Confidence and the Shadow of McLaggen

The case of mistaken identity at the Three Broomsticks, where Slughorn briefly confuses Ron for McLaggen, isn't just a throwaway gag. It's a tiny pinprick that subtly influences Ron's already fragile confidence.

Ron struggles throughout the series with feelings of inadequacy. He's constantly in the shadow of his more accomplished siblings and the ever-famous Harry Potter.

Moments like this, where he's momentarily mistaken for someone deemed "important" by Slughorn, can simultaneously inflate his ego and highlight his insecurities.

It's a complex push-and-pull that contributes to Ron's overall character arc.

Slughorn's Superficiality: A Glimpse into His Worldview

Slughorn's mistake, while humorous, also reveals a crucial aspect of his personality: his superficiality.

He's easily swayed by surface-level attributes, like family connections and Quidditch prowess, rather than genuine merit.

This incident underscores his tendency to collect students based on potential benefits rather than their actual character.

This trait will become increasingly important later in the series. It directly influences Harry's perception of Slughorn and the choices he makes regarding Tom Riddle's past.

The Seeds of Competition: Ron vs. Cormac

The confusion between Ron and Cormac subtly fuels the rivalry between them, particularly in the context of Quidditch.

Ron already feels the pressure of living up to expectations as a Gryffindor Quidditch player.

The incident at the Three Broomsticks adds another layer to this pressure, as he's now (however briefly) associated with someone Slughorn clearly values.

This unspoken competition motivates Ron to prove himself, contributing to the Quidditch subplot and his growth as a keeper.

A Microcosm of Hogwarts Politics

The mistaken identity acts as a microcosm of the broader social and political dynamics at Hogwarts.

It highlights the importance placed on lineage, talent, and connections within the wizarding world.

Slughorn's preference for "well-connected" students reflects the systemic biases present within the Ministry of Magic and other institutions.

Even seemingly insignificant moments like this help to paint a more nuanced and critical picture of the wizarding world.

Subtle Foreshadowing?

Could the mix-up be seen as a subtle instance of foreshadowing?

McLaggen's overconfidence ultimately leads to a disastrous Quidditch performance, ironically proving Slughorn's initial assessment wrong.

Perhaps the incident hints at the unreliability of Slughorn's judgment and the potential pitfalls of valuing outward appearances.

In conclusion, while the mistaken identity at the Three Broomsticks is undeniably funny, it's also a cleverly crafted moment that subtly contributes to character development, plot progression, and the overall thematic richness of the Harry Potter series. It reminds us that even the smallest details can have a lasting impact.

Humor in the Dark: Finding Levity in the Wizarding World

[Mistaken Identity as a Catalyst: Character Development and Plot Progression The Aftermath: Slughorn's Response and the Ripple Effect One of the most endearing and enduring aspects of the Harry Potter series is its ability to weave moments of levity into the grand tapestry of its narrative. These small, human moments, filled with awkwardness, humor, and even the occasional case of mistaken identity, serve as a crucial counterpoint to the series' more serious themes. The Slughorn/Ron/Cormac mix-up is a prime example of this, offering a welcome dose of comedic relief.

But why is this humor so important? What purpose does it serve in a story filled with dark magic, prejudice, and life-or-death stakes? Let's dive in!

The Importance of a Good Laugh

The Harry Potter series doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of life. From Voldemort's reign of terror to the casual bigotry displayed by some characters, there's plenty to be concerned about. That's precisely why the humor is so vital.

It provides a release valve for the tension.

It allows readers (and characters) to catch their breath and recharge before diving back into the fray.

A Break From the Darkness

Consider the scene at the Three Broomsticks. The characters are in the midst of preparing for potentially dangerous times ahead. Voldemort is gaining power, and Hogwarts is no longer the safe haven it once was. In the midst of all that, we get this wonderfully absurd moment where a powerful wizard mistakes Ron Weasley for… well, Cormac McLaggen.

The sheer ridiculousness of the situation is a welcome contrast to the mounting tension. It reminds us that even in the face of great evil, life (and its inherent awkwardness) goes on.

Humor as a Tool for Storytelling

But the humor isn't just there for laughs. It's also a valuable tool for character development and social commentary. The Slughorn mix-up, for example, reveals a lot about Slughorn's vanity and his tendency to judge people based on superficial qualities.

It also highlights Ron's insecurities and his constant struggle to feel valued and recognized.

Understated but Impactful

The humor in Harry Potter often comes from the characters themselves. It’s not always grand slapstick. Instead, it is witty banter, awkward social interactions, and absurd situations that arise from the magical world.

This kind of humor feels more authentic and relatable.

It makes the characters feel like real people, even though they're casting spells and battling dragons.

The Power of Lightheartedness

Ultimately, the humor in the Harry Potter series is a testament to the power of lightheartedness in the face of adversity. It reminds us that even when things are at their darkest, there's always room for a good laugh. The Slughorn/Ron/Cormac incident serves as a perfect example of this, showcasing how a simple case of mistaken identity can provide much-needed relief and offer valuable insights into the characters and the world they inhabit.

So, next time you're re-reading Half-Blood Prince or watching the movie and Slughorn's around, listen closely! It's a pretty funny running gag how he keeps getting Ron's name wrong. Remember, in the Three Broomsticks, what name does Slughorn call Ron? He calls him "Rupert," further proving his tendency to mix up his students' names! Just another quirky detail that makes the Harry Potter world so endlessly entertaining, right?