What’s it about?
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is the action-packed fourth book in J.K. Rowling’s magical series. This year, Hogwarts is hosting the legendary Triwizard Tournament, a dangerous competition between three wizarding schools. But when Harry’s name unexpectedly emerges from the Goblet of Fire, he is forced to compete in a deadly contest—and faces his darkest, most terrifying encounter yet with Lord Voldemort.
Detailed Summary
The story begins at the Riddle House, where Lord Voldemort and his servant Wormtail (Peter Pettigrew) plot their return to power and murder an old caretaker, Frank Bryce. Meanwhile, Harry is invited by the Weasleys to attend the Quidditch World Cup, along with Hermione. The trio witnesses a thrilling match between Ireland and Bulgaria, and meets famous players like Viktor Krum. After the match, Death Eaters attack the camp, and the Dark Mark is conjured, signaling Voldemort’s return.
Back at Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledore announces the Triwizard Tournament, a magical contest between Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang. The Goblet of Fire will choose one champion from each school (aged 17+). New teachers arrive, including Mad-Eye Moody as Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, known for his paranoia and magical eye.
The champions selected are: Fleur Delacour (Beauxbatons), Viktor Krum (Durmstrang), and Cedric Diggory (Hogwarts). To everyone’s shock, a fourth name emerges—Harry Potter, even though he’s underage and did not enter. Bound by magical contract, Harry must compete. Ron feels betrayed and their friendship strains. Rita Skeeter, a sensationalist reporter, spreads damaging stories about Harry and his friends.
The Tournament features three dangerous tasks:
- First Task: Retrieve a golden egg guarded by a dragon. With help from Hagrid and Hermione, Harry uses his flying skills to outmaneuver a Hungarian Horntail and claim the egg.
- Second Task: Rescue something valuable from the depths of the Black Lake. Harry deciphers the egg’s clue (with Dobby’s help), and bravely saves Ron and Fleur’s sister, Gabrielle, earning extra points for his moral courage.
- Third Task: Navigate a maze filled with magical obstacles to reach the Triwizard Cup. Harry and Cedric reach the cup together and agree to share victory by grabbing it at the same time.
But the cup is a Portkey—transporting them to a graveyard where Voldemort and his Death Eaters await. Wormtail murders Cedric and uses Harry’s blood in a dark ritual to restore Voldemort’s body. Voldemort returns to full power, calls his followers, and duels Harry. Protected by the echoing spirits of his parents and other victims (the Priori Incantatem effect), Harry escapes with Cedric’s body using the Portkey.
Back at Hogwarts, the truth comes out: “Mad-Eye Moody” was really Barty Crouch Jr., a Death Eater using Polyjuice Potion. The real Moody is rescued. The wizarding world reels from Voldemort’s return, though the Ministry refuses to believe it. Dumbledore warns everyone that dark times are coming. Harry and his friends must face the reality of war, grief, and the end of childhood innocence.