Hermione Quotes
Though intelligence is Hermione’s main source of agency, in the beginning of the series it actually contains her.
As Heilman notes in her essay, “research on boys’ school culture suggests that bookishness and academic achievement are considered feminine” (224). Ruthann Mayes-Elma also suggests that “girls are to take their studies seriously and be good at them, while boys are to be adventurous and not so good in school” (86). At this point in the story, Hermione fulfills this stereotypical nerd girl role.
// IKIA (p.15)
“I went looking for the troll because I—I thought I could deal with it on my own—you know, because I’ve read about them” (177). This statement has the indications of agency—Hermione seeking out something dangerous and being reassured in her ability because of her intelligence—yet she changes her story to save those who have made fun of her. Here she is replicating the cultural expectations that girls are supposed to be studious and boys adventurous and punishing herself for, even falsely, violating these norms. …show more content…
Without her intelligence and, specifically, her logic Harry would not be able to pass through the fire to confront Quirrell nor could he turn back and escape. Instead of receiving praise first, she tells Harry that he is a great wizard, to which he responds, “I’m not as good as you” (287). Rather than accepting this compliment, Hermione eschews her rightful praise and seems to belittle herself and her intelligence: “Me!...Books! And cleverness! There are more important things—friendship and bravery and—oh Harry—be careful!” (287). Hermione is modest almost to the point of
As Heilman notes in her essay, “research on boys’ school culture suggests that bookishness and academic achievement are considered feminine” (224). Ruthann Mayes-Elma also suggests that “girls are to take their studies seriously and be good at them, while boys are to be adventurous and not so good in school” (86). At this point in the story, Hermione fulfills this stereotypical nerd girl role.
// IKIA (p.15)
“I went looking for the troll because I—I thought I could deal with it on my own—you know, because I’ve read about them” (177). This statement has the indications of agency—Hermione seeking out something dangerous and being reassured in her ability because of her intelligence—yet she changes her story to save those who have made fun of her. Here she is replicating the cultural expectations that girls are supposed to be studious and boys adventurous and punishing herself for, even falsely, violating these norms. …show more content…
Without her intelligence and, specifically, her logic Harry would not be able to pass through the fire to confront Quirrell nor could he turn back and escape. Instead of receiving praise first, she tells Harry that he is a great wizard, to which he responds, “I’m not as good as you” (287). Rather than accepting this compliment, Hermione eschews her rightful praise and seems to belittle herself and her intelligence: “Me!...Books! And cleverness! There are more important things—friendship and bravery and—oh Harry—be careful!” (287). Hermione is modest almost to the point of