What *Really* is the Purpose (or nature) of Transfiguration?

[grey_wolf_c]

No: HPFGUIDX 39729

Hana wrote: 
> I don't know if I agree with the idea of a time limit though.  The chess set in PS/SS was transfigured and I doubt that McGonagall crept past everyone elses traps to retransfigure the chess set numerous times a day.  (I wonder what it ~used~ to be before it was a huge game of wizard's chess?)
> 
> Well, I think I've babbled on long enough -- hope some of this makes sense.
> 
> ---
> --Hana (who should really stop thinking out loud when posting)

The chess was probably most of the time inanimated (answering to your 
second question: when not a chess game, they're simply giant statues), 
and someone entering the room triggers the effect (better still, as 
seen in the film-that-must-not-be-named, when someone reaches the third 
row in the white side). That way, the magic can last longer - making 
even more sense that transfiguration needs, nonetheless, frequent 
repowerings, like if they run on batteries.

Hope that helps,

Grey Wolf