[HPforGrownups] Why Astronomy?

[Silverthorne]

No: HPFGUIDX 91872

{Robert}

Why do the Hogwarts students study astronomy?  It can't be just for
Divination because Hermione is not taking Divination but is taking
astronomy.

They don't take biology for the Healers or chemistry to help with Potions --
so why astronomy?


{Anne}

Well, a lot of ritualistic spells may need to be done on certain nights when
planets and stars are in certain positions. Also, in folklore, many herbs
cannot be picked unless certain astronomical events are met (Such as picking
Holly on a wintery full moon night for the best potency). Then there's
certain beasts that are affected by the heavenly bodies (Like Remus during
full moon). A lot of 'old' folkloric magic is dependent on such factors--and
although Rowling flubs the details often enough, she does stick to the
generalities. So my guess would be that young wizards and witches need to
know what's going on in the heavens for spell work and potions/herbalism
gathering as well as divination.

It probably also ties into Arithmancy ('Magical' math) for the wizarding
version of Physics...something I can see Hermione very much getting
into...^^

Anne