Professor Cuthbert Binns holds the rather extraordinary distinction of being Hogwarts’ only ghost teacher, having continued his lectures long after his death sometime before 1890. The elderly wizard reportedly died peacefully in the staff room, but was so dedicated to his teaching duties that he simply got up the next morning as a ghost and carried on with his classes as if nothing had happened.
As the Professor of History of Magic, Binns delivers his lessons in a monotonous drone that sends even the most studious pupils into deep slumber. His ghostly form appears pale and wispy, with thinning white hair, and he has the peculiar habit of gliding through blackboards whilst writing notes. Despite teaching one of the most fascinating subjects at Hogwarts—covering goblin rebellions, giant wars, and the rise and fall of dark wizards—his tedious delivery transforms these thrilling historical events into mind-numbing recitations of names, dates, and treaties.
Students regularly fall asleep during his classes, and Binns seems completely oblivious to their lack of attention, continuing his lectures regardless of snoring, head-nodding, or complete classroom abandonment. His teaching method consists primarily of reading from his notes in the same dreary tone, year after year, making History of Magic one of the least popular subjects among Hogwarts pupils.
The professor’s dedication to routine extends beyond death itself, representing the ultimate example of how some teachers never truly retire—they simply become more transparent about their methods.