No, Hermione isn't sympathetic - and again, as a cat owner, I think it's pretty important to remember your pet is an animal. Of course, in this case it actually worked out well that Hermione just let Crookshanks be... Crookshanks, but still.



I've always wondered when they actually learn the Patronus Charm, because from the leaflets and things in HBP, either it isn't actually taught or it's so difficult that very few actually manage to master the spell.

Yeah, I'm not sure. It might be that the MoM at the time wasn't eager to encourage learning it. Even Scrimegour was as bad as Fudge, after all. Of course, we also never really learn what's needed for the NEWTs at all other than their subjects, do we?


I think it's more that it isn't served in Hogwarts, Harry was brought up by Muggles who wouldn't have it, and McGonagall must have told the other teachers that he isn't allowed to go to Hogsmeade, yet somehow he knows what Butterbeer is and what it tastes like! I'd be suspicious too.

Actually, that's a good point, and Remus also may not be aware that Harry's spent parts of the summer with the Weasleys (although he never had it at the Burrow either).


but maybe this is part of her reaction to being stuck in the hospital wing for weeks in CoS.

Possibly... I hadn't considered her possibly still being a bit jolted by that.