While never explicitly confirmed as a traditional "crush" in the narrative, Neville Longbottom certainly displayed strong admiration and potential romantic interest in Hermione Granger. His actions indicate a significant appreciation for her, suggesting a fondness that extended beyond simple friendship.
Neville's Admiration for Hermione
There was indeed some potential between Hermione and fellow Gryffindor Neville Longbottom. This potential became particularly evident during their fourth year at Hogwarts, leading up to the highly anticipated Yule Ball.
The Yule Ball Invitation
A key moment highlighting Neville's feelings was his decision to ask Hermione to the Yule Ball. His reasoning for doing so speaks volumes about his perception of her: he said she was always helpful and nice to him. This sentiment suggests a deep-seated respect and gratitude, often precursors to romantic attraction or a "crush."
- Appreciation: Neville clearly valued Hermione's consistent kindness and support, especially given his often self-deprecating nature in earlier years.
- Courage: Asking someone to a formal event like the Yule Ball requires a certain level of courage and often implies a desire for a deeper connection, or at least to be seen in a romantic light.
- Recognized Qualities: He specifically highlighted her positive attributes, indicating he paid close attention to her character and actions.
Interpreting the "Potential"
The idea of "potential" between them indicates that observers, or perhaps even the characters themselves, might have noticed a spark or a fitting dynamic that could have developed into something more. Although they never officially dated or pursued anything serious, Neville's invitation to the Yule Ball remains a strong indicator of his high regard for Hermione.
Here's a breakdown of the key elements:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Yule Ball, a significant social event where students seek partners. |
| Neville's Action | He asked Hermione Granger to be his date. |
| Reason Stated | Hermione was "always helpful and nice to him." |
| Implied Feelings | Strong admiration, deep appreciation, and a potential romantic interest or "crush." |
| Relationship Status | They never officially dated or developed a serious romantic relationship, but the potential was present. |
For more details on these characters and their interactions, you can explore their profiles on the Harry Potter Wiki for Neville Longbottom and Hermione Granger. The Yule Ball itself was a pivotal event in their fourth year.
In conclusion, while the books don't use the explicit term "crush," Neville's actions and stated reasons for inviting Hermione to the Yule Ball strongly suggest he held significant affection and admiration for her, indicating a definite potential for romantic feelings.
