Magical Theory

[Horst or Rebecca J. Bohner]

No: HPFGUIDX 13038

Hedwig wrote:

> Of course you realize the only way to deal with this question
> scientifically is to sit down and make a list of all the spells, charms,
> potions, and curses -- don't forget curses -- used or mentioned in the
> books, and draw conclusions.  Love to help you with it, but I'm a little
> too busy right now.  :-)

That's all right, because there's already such a list on the "Harry Potter
Lexicon" at http://www.i2k.com/~svderark/lexicon/ .

After looking through the list, I've come to the conclusion that spells are
a blanket term which refers to any and all kinds of magic deliberately
performed by wizards using wands.  Charms, transfigurations, jinxes, hexes,
and curses are therefore simply sub-categories of spells, classified by
effect and/or intent.  Does that sound sensible?
--
The Marauder's Map
rebeccaj at pobox.com

(crossposting from DiagonAlley back to HPforGrownups and SnapeFans for
further comments)