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hidavo.THE WIZARDING WIKI

Expecto Patronum

← All spellsBOOK-SOURCED · FOUNDING EDITION

A demanding defensive charm used against Dementors.

Overview

A Patronus is conjured through magic closely associated with positive memory and feeling. Harry’s lessons show that knowing the incantation is not sufficient on its own. The distinction between an incomplete manifestation and a fully formed animal matters when describing his progress.

In the books

Facts below follow the novels. Adaptation details are not merged into the book account.

BOOK 3 · Prisoner of Azkaban

Lupin gives Harry private lessons in producing a Patronus.

Source: Prisoner of Azkaban, “The Patronus”.
BOOK 3 · Prisoner of Azkaban

Harry conjures a stag Patronus by the lake.

Source: Prisoner of Azkaban, “Hermione’s Secret”.

Reading notes

This entry distinguishes what the story establishes from what a character believes. For context, read the named chapters rather than relying on an isolated statement. A film scene, game mechanic or fan theory is not evidence that the same event occurs in the novels.

Explore the connections

Sources

  1. J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, chapter “The Patronus”.
  2. J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, chapter “Hermione’s Secret”.

Chapter names are used because pagination varies by edition. Summaries are original editorial writing. How we use sources →

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