Spring 2016
Harrius Potter Spells Explained
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Harrius Potter et Philosophi Lapis) spells in real life or at least Wizarding reality
Spell
Modern Day Characters
Patronus Charm
Arguably the most well known defense spell that takes the form of a wizard/witch-specific spirit
animal, one which he or she shares the deepest affinity. In Harry’s case, his Patronus was a silver
stag and he cast it during a Quidditch match against Ravenclaw with Hermione and Sirius when
faced with 100 or more Dementors.
(Expecto Patronum)
LATIN - Expecto: I look out for, I wait for | Patronum: protector, guardian, patron
Levicorpus
(Levicorpus)
Imperius Curse
(Imperio)
Low key my favorite spell in all of the books, it can be used both nonverbally and verbally. It causes
an enemy to be lifted into the air by their ankle.
LATIN - Levis: light | Corpus: body
One of the Unforgiveable Curses, it is one of the most powerful spells in Dark Magic, and causes an
enemy to undergo the complete physical and mental domination of the spell-caster. However,
some heroes with exceptional strength have been rumored to have resisted it.
LATIN - Impero: to rule | Imperiosus: commanding, mighty
ENGLISH DERIVATIVE
Imperative: command
Bird Conjuring
Charm (Avis)
An advanced form of Transfiguration taught at the N.E.W.T. Level at Hogwarts, this unique spell
conjures a flock of birds at request.
Lumos Maxima
A power illuminating charm, this spell conjures up extremely bright light from the tip of the wand,
which can be separated from the wand to light up an area for several minutes. Harry uses this
charm often to illegally read under his bed sheets.
(Lumos Maxima)
LATIN - Avis: bird
LATIN - Lumen: light | Maxima: greatest, very great
Lynn Ahrens, OJCL Editor, Ursuline
XIV