Who do the Hogwarts house elves answer to?

[Richelle Votaw]

No: HPFGUIDX 70689

I'd always assumed that Dumbledore was in charge of the house elves at Hogwarts.  After all, he hired Dobby, even gave him a salary, and gave Winky a job too.  So it's only natural that when Umbridge took over she would be in charge of them in place of Dumbledore.  Which explains why Dobby was beating himself up over warning Harry about her coming.  But then Harry orders Dobby to lie to her if she asks him if he's talked to Harry, and orders Dobby to stop hurting himself.  And Dobby thanks Harry.  Can any student order the house elves around?  Even over the "headmistress?"  I know Fred & George had no trouble getting food from the house elves in the kitchen, but that didn't really seem like ordering them around, they were more than happy to provide food.

Thoughts on the matter?  It just seems a bit dangerous if any Hogwarts student can order house elves to do things (or not tell, etc.).  Of course, Dobby could consider Harry a bit above the other students--but to accept his orders over someone with more authority?  I just find it a bit odd.  

Richelle


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