Why Was Nick Surprised at Hermione’s Ignorance of Hogwarts Elves?
House Elves are a common aspect of life in the magical world, just like portkeys and the Floo network. Those raised in the magical world often take these things for granted, just as we take microwave ovens, phones, and planes for granted. This perspective is shaped by the cultural norms and expectations within the wizarding society.
The Social Norm of House Elves
The main reason Nick was surprised by Hermione’s ignorance is fundamentally rooted in the deeply ingrained social norms within the magical world. House Elves are not a topic of frequent discussion; they are simply a part of the background, much like any utility service in the wizarding realm. Nick grew up in the 16th century, a period where various forms of slavery were commonplace. Although attitudes towards slavery have evolved, the idea that House Elves are inferior magical creatures and thus subject to slavery has persisted.
Nick’s upbringing and experiences led him to assume that those who could afford House Elves would indeed have them. Consequently, he naturally assumed that any institution like Hogwarts, given its size and power, would have a substantial number of these elves. This assumption stemmed from his belief that they were necessary for the various tasks and maintenance required within the castle.
The Lack of Empathy in the Magical World
The British wizarding population generally lacks a sense of empathy when it comes to cultural differences. Hermione’s difficulty understanding the concept of House Elves can be seen as a reflection of this cultural insularity. The magical world’s self-centeredness is further exemplified in how it treats muggle-born students, implicitly assuming that they will adhere to the traditions and lifestyle of the wizarding world without consideration of their differing backgrounds.
A Culture of Smugness and Prejudice
The magical world is often seen as a place that is not only smug but also highly prejudiced and biased. This becomes evident in the initial contact that muggle-born students experience. A letter, sent by owl, comes with expectations of immediate compliance with the traditions and practices of the wizarding world.
When Hermione first expresses her knowledge of the books and her lack of experience with owls or any other magical conveniences, it highlights the contrast between the modern world her upbringing entailed and the lifestyle expected in the magical world. This stark difference in cultural expectations and experiences is even more pronounced when compared to the expectations placed on muggle-born students.
For Hermione, managing to adapt and thrive despite the differences is a testament to her intelligence and willingness to learn. However, for an average student like the author, adaptation would be far more challenging given the lack of preparation and the unrealistic expectations placed upon them. This realization led to a sense of disenchantment and a preference for returning to a more humane and inclusive reality.
The Letter to Ron and Harry
A key piece of evidence often cited to support the idea that Hermione received a letter is her introduction of herself to Ron and Harry. In the novel, she mentions that she received a letter and was thoroughly pleased to learn about the magical world. However, a close examination of the text reveals that there is an assumption of a more traditional form of communication, such as a teacher visiting her, which is not mentioned.
Given the unknowns and the evolving nature of contact between the magical and muggle worlds, it's possible that the method of communication has indeed changed over time. However, without definitive proof, it remains a matter of speculation. The text itself does not clearly indicate whether a teacher visited Hermione or not.
In conclusion, Nick’s surprise at Hermione’s ignorance of House Elves is a reflection of the cultural expectations and prejudices inherent in the wizarding world. The lack of empathy and awareness of different cultural backgrounds, along with a sense of smugness and prejudice, forms a stark contrast with the modern world, highlighting the need for greater understanding and inclusion in the wizarding community.