The spell Levicorpus is a non-verbal jinx that hoists the target upside down into the air by their ankle, leaving them dangling helplessly.
This infamous charm is one of the many inventions of Severus Snape, whose hobby of creating spells was revealed through his annotated Potions textbook in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
The Incantation and Its Effect
Levicorpus, often cast non-verbally, is designed to incapacitate an opponent by suspending them in a vulnerable position. The target is lifted swiftly, head downwards, making it difficult for them to move or retaliate. It's known as a rather humiliating jinx, often used for pranks or to quickly disarm someone without causing serious injury.
Key characteristics of Levicorpus include:
- Non-Verbal Casting: While an incantation exists, it is frequently cast without uttering a word, as demonstrated by Severus Snape.
- Targeted Suspension: Specifically lifts the target by one ankle.
- Humiliating Effect: Primarily used as a jinx or prank, causing embarrassment and helplessness.
- Quick Execution: The spell takes immediate effect upon casting.
Origin and Creator
Levicorpus was invented by Severus Snape during his time as a student at Hogwarts. His personal copy of Advanced Potion-Making contained numerous jinxes and counter-jinxes he had created, along with various modifications to standard potion recipes. This hobby showcased his profound magical talent and innovative mind, even if many of his creations were dark or mischievous in nature. The spell became widely known after Harry Potter discovered Snape's old textbook and began experimenting with the spells written within its margins.
For more details on Snape's inventions, you can explore resources like the Harry Potter Wiki on Severus Snape (as an example of a credible fan-maintained resource).
Counter-Spell: Liberacorpus
Fortunately for those who find themselves dangling by their ankle, there is a straightforward counter-charm. The spell Liberacorpus is specifically designed to reverse the effects of Levicorpus, gently lowering the target back to the ground. This counter-jinx, also likely invented by Snape, provides a quick solution to an otherwise embarrassing predicament.
Spell Summary
Here's a quick overview of Levicorpus:
| Spell Name | Effect | Creator | Counter-Spell | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levicorpus | Hoists target in air by ankle | Severus Snape | Liberacorpus | Jinx/Prank |
Practical Insights
While Levicorpus is a powerful and memorable jinx, its practical application leans more towards social humiliation or a quick, non-lethal incapacitation rather than direct combat. It requires precision and intent, and its non-verbal nature makes it a formidable tool for a skilled duellist. The spell's discovery and use by Harry Potter, especially against his rival Draco Malfoy, highlighted its dramatic impact within the wizarding world.
