CHAPTER DISCUSSION PS/SS 8, THE POTIONS MASTER

[Geoff]

No: HPFGUIDX 188231

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, Cassy Ferris <xellina at ...> wrote:

> > Questions for Discussion:

> > 6. When Snape asks Harry about the bezoar, Harry wonders whether Snape expects him to have memorized every word of "One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi." But the Potions text mentioned in "Diagon Alley" is "Magical Drafts and Potions" by Arsenius Jigger. "One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi" is almost certainly the Herbology text. How do you explain this apparent error on JKR's part?
> 
> Since Harry didn't read any of his textbooks, he doesn't have a clear
> idea which is for which class. Though it is quite possible that "One
> Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi" is equally used in Portions, since
> herbs and plants are obviously important parts of many concoctions.

Geoff:
I must spring to Harry's defence. You have maligned him greatly with 
that statement. The evidence:

'"Thought you wouldn't open a book before coming, eh, Potter?"

Harry forced himself to keep looking into those cold eyes. He **had** 
looked through his books at the Dursleys', but did Snape expect him 
to remember everything in One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi?'
(PS "The Potions Master" p.102 UK edition)