Today I’m going to discuss two of the most marvelous INFJs in popular culture, Dumbledore from Harry Potter, and Belle from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. They are “Counselors,” and are perhaps the most puzzling, while simultaneously respected of all the types.

First, there is Dumbledore. Dumbledore demonstrates almost every key quality possessed by an INFJ. He is quiet, caring, and friendly, but beneath these surface traits is an astonishingly deep personality shrouded in mystery. INFJs can be difficult to get to know, it’s true, and Dumbledore is no exception. This is not because of a lack of openness or willingness, but because they are highly complex and have a penchant for privacy, as is seen by Dumbledore’s secluded office up in a tower. This complexity, coupled with a need for time alone, often leads others to give up trying to develop a friendship with them. This is unfortunate because those who do take the time and invest in these extraordinary individuals will find a friend capable of the deepest love and loyalty. Of course, all of this is true of the Headmaster, and while those around him give him the utmost respect, only a select few know the “real” Dumbledore.

Now, INFJs tend to feel very passionate about a certain cause or idea that they hold dear—caring for orphans, counseling couples, and tuning their ears to hear the cries of all who may be suffering, to name a few—and might even feel like a part of them is missing if they are not engaged in some form of helping others. Of course, Dumbledore is clearly passionate about educating young magic folk, and also is highly devoted in the caring for two orphans: Tom Riddle and Harry Potter. But perhaps the most telling aspect of his idealism is his relationship with a certain Gellert Grindelwald—a wizard who wished for a world in which muggles would be subservient to wizards. Dumbledore may have gone along with Grindelwald’s initiative for a time, but he was motivated entirely by a desire to help muggles, seeing them as inferior and needing guidance. However, as he grew older and wiser, his former idealistic notions were replaced with facts: that muggles were not inferior, just different. Ultimately it was Dumbledore who thwarted Grindelwald in an effort to support his newly found truth.

Another INFJ that is a household name is Belle from Beauty and the Beast. She is perhaps the most stereotypical INFJ in existence. A beautiful personality, quiet, strong, but considered by all of the townsfolk to be rather, well, odd. Her constant reading fuels her vivid imagination and practically no one understands her—and very few try.

Interestingly, the opposite sex tends to like INFJs, as they are generally easy to get along with. Even the most boorish of types may attempt to win their hearts, as is seen in the case of Gaston. However, it does not matter how handsome, strong, athletic, or talented an individual may be, if their personality is crude, coarse, and lacking depth, the INFJ will not be interested—leaving their pursuer and those observing confused. Of course, the INFJ is not immune to the symptoms of attraction, but there are very few personalities that are capable of loving a beast. Of course, he’s not a beast on the inside, as Belle later discovers. Granted, the Beast is harsh, but many INFJs find enjoyment in taming the callous individual if they see depth within.

The INFJ personality is quite rare, and if you happen to know one, give them time to open up to you. Do not pressure them, especially in public, to share. They will share with you, but only after trust has been garnered. Appreciate them for their depth, and know that their complexity can leave them feeling puzzled about themselves. Lastly, do not take their need for privacy as being aloof. They are ready to give and receive a deep and meaningful friendship.