[HPforGrownups] The intellect of Krum

[Ronin_47]

No: HPFGUIDX 164794

--Bart wrote--

>>>Some names are very difficult to pronounce by someone who comes from another country. Even many English speakers would probably pronounce the name "her mine ee" rather than "her my-o knee". And remember, Krum was eligible for the Wizard's Cup.
<<<


--Ronin's Comments--
It's true that some names are difficult to pronounce in many languages. I know that many fans were pronouncing Hermione as Hermee - One, before the movies were released. 
Krum's stumbling over her name is just a small bit of evidence though. Considering that he was at Hogwarts and speaking with her for nearly an entire school year, I'd have expected any fairly bright person to be able to pronounce her name by the summer holiday. 
Hermione's name aside, she comments that he's not the brightest boy at some point. Unfortunately, I can not recite the exact quote because I don't have my copy of the book. I also believe that someone (Moody, I think) calls him a dolt at one point and says he would never make it through the tournament without Karkarof's coaching.
Again, I apologize if I'm getting the movie mixed up with the book, but I am 99% certain that Hermione mentions his lack of intelligence (not necessarily the word she  uses) at some point in the book. They really have nothing in common and he just watches her read....
I know that Ron has many observations about Victor's short comings, but they are likely out of jealousy.
Personally, I don't think Victor was stupid or that his intelligence would be a reflection on the entire school. He is probably a very talented wizard and pairing that with his physical abilities would've been thought to give him an advantage in the tournament. Just because he is not book-smart or the best communicator doesn't make him stupid. He could still be a useful ally or a worthy foe.
He may have been so taken aback by Hermione's beauty, that he was unable to speak properly around her.....Like Harry with Cho.
It could be argued either way. I just felt that Durmstrang was stereotypically, more brawn than brains while Beaubatons was stereotypically the opposite, demonstrating refinement and charm. 

Cheers,
Ronin

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