The Giving of the Time Turner: When and Why Hermione Received Her Magical Device
One of the most intriguing and useful magical devices in the Harry Potter series is the Time Turner. In the story, Hermione Granger receives this enchanting artifact from Minerva McGonagall at the start of her third year. This Time Turner enables Hermione to attend more classes than could be reasonably scheduled in a standard Hogwarts day. But why was it given to her, and under what circumstances? Let's delve into this magical moment from the series.
When and Where Hermione Received the Time Turner
According to the Harry Potter Wiki, Hermione Granger received the Time Turner from Professor McGonagall in the year 1993, at the very beginning of her third year at Hogwarts. This pivotal event is described in detail in J. K. Rowling's Complete Harry Potter Collection.
Excerpt from the Book
As the events unfold, Professor McGonagall appears to Hermione, and a crucial conversation takes place:
‘Are you sure you feel all right Potter’ said Professor McGonagall sharply.
‘Yes’ said Harry.
‘Very well. Kindly wait outside while I have a quick word with Miss Granger about her timetable then we can go down to the feast together.’
This occurs immediately after Hermione enters Hogwarts, marking the very start of her third year. The Minerva McGonagall-given Time Turner is a gift that allows Hermione to manage her extensive academic schedule effectively.
Why Hermione Needed the Time Turner
During her third year, Hermione was undertaking a massive academic workload. The Time Turner made it possible for her to attend additional lessons without overextending herself. This magical device is particularly useful for top students like Hermione, who is keen on mastering every subject that comes her way.
However, the use of the Time Turner is not without its complications. As Hermione’s academic record was exceptional, she obtained special permission from the Ministry of Magic to use the Time Turner. Nevertheless, it remained a closely-guarded secret, with Hermione pledging to keep it confidential from her classmates, including Harry Potter and Ron Weasley.
The Consequences and Aftermath
Despite her promise to McGonagall, Hermione did not reveal the existence of the Time Turner to Harry and Ron until the end of the year. Together, they used it to travel back in time, save Sirius Black, and prevent Buckbeak, the magical hippogriff, from execution. This decision turned out to be crucial, thereby underscoring the importance of the Time Turner in pivotal moments of the plot.
Interestingly, Hermione's decision to drop her detested subjects, Divination and Muggle Studies, actually revolving around her Muggle-born status, allowed her to maintain a normal schedule and return the Time Turner. Ron, ever the loyal friend, found this disappointing, as he was deprived of the chance to benefit from such a magical tool.
Conclusion
The handing over of the Time Turner to Hermione marks a significant moment in the Harry Potter series. It not only reflects the trust Minerva McGonagall places in Hermione but also underscores the challenges faced by top students at Hogwarts. The use of the Time Turner is a testament to Hermione's dedication to her studies and her ability to navigate the complex world of magic.