Ch. 21Gryffindor Loses Ten Points
Key Plot Points and Events
- Tom helps Daphne change a toothpick into a needle, earning Slytherin a point.
- Hermione, frustrated, eventually succeeds in changing her toothpick as well, earning Gryffindor a point.
- Seamus and Neville cause an explosion while practicing, leading to Gryffindor losing a point.
- Tom and Hermione go to the library; Tom records books for his Study Space, drawing Madam Pince's disapproval.
- Tom is summoned by Professor Snape after class.
Character Developments
- Tom displays patience and good humor in teaching Daphne, and later shows indifference to Madam Pince's disapproval.
- Hermione shows determination and competitiveness in mastering the spell.
- Daphne stands up for Tom against Pansy Parkinson and Millicent Bulstrode, revealing her high-society temper and disregard for their opinions.
Significant Themes
- Competition and rivalry between houses, particularly Gryffindor and Slytherin.
- The importance of determination and practice in mastering magical skills.
- The prejudice against Muggle-borns, as seen in Pansy's and Bulstrode's attitudes towards Hermione and Tom.
Character Interactions
- Tom helps Daphne with her Transfiguration, showing kindness and patience.
- Hermione and Tom study together in the library, with Tom teaching Hermione his method of browsing books.
- Daphne stands up to Pansy and Bulstrode, showing her loyalty to Tom and disregard for their opinions.
- Tom and Rosier exchange threatening gestures, hinting at future conflict.