[HPforGrownups] Wolfsbane/Portkey questions

[Liz Clark]

No: HPFGUIDX 191424

Interesting questions :)

1) Wolfsbane potion is supposed to let Lupin/whoever else keep his mind, 
right? So, would that make him more like an animagus rather than a 
dangerous, supernatural creature so long as he has taken it? If that's the 
case, then why does he shut himself away? He's got control of his mind, so 
he's not dangerous, right? Why isn't he off running around in the forest or, 
in case of third year, prowling the halls on patrol or something? And why, 
if he's taking the potion, is in control and isn't dangerous, would he be 
shunned?

I can think of 2 lines of thought with regard to Wolfsbane. Evidence of 
taking Wolfsbane and general fear.

Firstly, Wolfsbane is not a common or cheap potion. It is very difficult to 
make and only skilled Potioneers can accomplish it successfully. Therefore, 
not only will a very few Werewolves have access to it, but also 'he [Snape] 
could have wreaked much worse damage on me by tampering with the Potion.' 
(taken from HBP ch16) Which suggests that if prepared incorrectly the 
Werewolf would be just as dangerous, or more so. These 2 points mean that a 
werewolf is rarely safe and there is no visual sign that a werewolf has 
taken Wolfsbane Potion. If I met one, I wouldn't ask if they were safe, I'd 
just run!

Secondly, Wolfsbane is a fairly new invention. So for centuries werewolves 
were extremely dangerous and even glimpsing one would probably cause severe 
fear and probably a 'hunting party'. The same old story, fear of the 
creature would inevitably lead to killing it. Just like Muggles did with 
witches. I cannot see much difference in opinions and fear nowadays because 
a few werewolves take Wolfsbane Potion.

With regard to Lupin specifically in Harry's 3rd year. Given that the kids 
didn't know he was a werewolf, it would be foolish to roam freely around the 
corridors, as students didn't always abid by the curfew. I would suggest 
that he shut himself in his office on Dumbledore's orders, to keep Lupin 
safe and in his job. It is also possible that he was ashamed of being a 
werewolf and didn't want to show himself transformed.


2) Portkeys. If someone has a Portkey, say in his pocket, timed to go off at 
a certain time, do they need to be holding it when the time is up or will it 
still transport them regardless of whether or not they are holding it, just 
so long as it is on their person somewhere?

Everytime a Portkey is mentioned, it has to be touched with flesh. Therefore 
I'd suggest that it has to be in contact with flesh to work. The sensation 
'hooked by the navel' also suggests that contact with the actual body is 
required.

Liz