Harry Potter is sorted into Gryffindor in J.K. Rowling’s first novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
The Sorting Hat places students into one of four Hogwarts houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin. Harry fears Slytherin and silently asks not to be placed there before the Hat announces Gryffindor.
Gryffindor is traditionally associated with bravery, courage, nerve, and chivalry. Harry joins Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger there, while his school rival Draco Malfoy is placed in Slytherin.
The house assignment is important to the series because it shapes the characters’ friendships, competitions, and shared common-room life. Although the Hat considers Harry’s qualities, his own choice also helps influence the decision.