Hermione Granger changed Harry Potter's face using a Stinging Hex to disguise him from Snatchers when they were caught after inadvertently triggering the Taboo on Voldemort's name in 1998.
During the perilous events of the Second Wizarding War, specifically in 1998, Hermione Granger demonstrated remarkable quick thinking and loyalty by altering Harry Potter's appearance. Her urgent action was a direct response to a life-threatening situation where they were ambushed by Snatchers.
The Immediate Danger: Snatchers and the Taboo
The trio—Harry, Ron, and Hermione—were on the run, actively hunting Horcruxes. A significant threat during this period was the Taboo enchantment placed upon Voldemort's name by the Death Eaters. Speaking the name "Voldemort" aloud would instantly break protective enchantments and pinpoint the speaker's location, allowing Death Eaters or their affiliates, like the Snatchers, to track them down.
- Who were the Snatchers? They were ruthless, opportunistic bounty hunters working for the Ministry of Magic under Voldemort's control. Their primary goal was to capture "undesirables" such as Muggle-borns, blood traitors, and particularly, Harry Potter, for the reward money.
- The Taboo's Effect: Unbeknownst to them at first, when Harry inadvertently spoke Voldemort's name, it triggered the Taboo, instantly revealing their location.
Hermione's Swift Action: A Desperate Disguise
Upon realizing they were surrounded by Snatchers, Hermione immediately cast a Stinging Hex on Harry's face. This wasn't a casual prank but a desperate, strategic move to protect him.
- Purpose of the Stinging Hex: The hex caused Harry's face to swell and become distorted, making him unrecognizable. This temporary disfigurement served as a vital disguise, making it difficult for the Snatchers to confirm his identity as the highly sought-after Harry Potter, whose face was well-known from wanted posters.
- The Plan: Hermione's intention was to buy them time and sow doubt among their captors, hoping they might believe Harry was someone else, or at least not immediately identify him, thus giving them a crucial chance to escape or strategize their next move.
This quick-witted maneuver highlights Hermione's intelligence and ability to adapt under extreme pressure, directly contributing to their survival during one of the most dangerous periods of their quest.
