======Charm======
=====Definition and Distinctions=====
A **Charm** is a fundamental branch of [[spell|spellcasting]] that alters the inherent properties of an object or creature, changing what it //does// rather than what it //is//. This type of [[magic]] focuses on imbuing its target with a new, often temporary, function or behaviour. For example, a Charm can make an object fly, unlock itself, or repel water, but it does not change the object's fundamental nature.
Charms are distinct from other major spell categories:
  * **[[Transfiguration]]:** This is the most significant distinction. Where Charms alter an object's function, [[Transfiguration]] alters its form and substance, changing it into something else entirely. As [[Professor McGonagall]] taught, [[Transfiguration]] is more scientific and precise, while [[Professor Flitwick]] described Charms as being more concerned with imbuing properties.
  * **[[Dark Arts]]:** Charms are generally not considered [[Dark Magic]]. While some Charms can be used offensively in a [[duel]], such as the [[Stunning Spell]] or the [[Disarming Charm]], their primary nature is not malevolent. They are distinct from explicitly malicious spells like [[Jinx|Jinxes]], [[Hex|Hexes]], and [[Curse|Curses]], which are designed to cause harm, inconvenience, or suffering.
The scope of Charms is vast, encompassing simple household spells like the [[Mending Charm]] as well as some of the most powerful and complex magic known, such as the [[Patronus Charm]] and the [[Fidelius Charm]].
=====Learning and Practice=====
Charms is a core subject taught at [[Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry]] to all students from their first to their fifth year. Students may then continue to study the subject at the [[N.E.W.T.]] level in their sixth and seventh years.
The long-standing [[Charms]] professor during [[Harry Potter]]'s time at [[Hogwarts]] was [[Filius Flitwick]], a diminutive and highly accomplished wizard. The [[Charms classroom]] was located on the second floor of [[Hogwarts Castle]].
The curriculum involves both theoretical knowledge and extensive practical work, with an emphasis on correct [[wand]] movement and proper [[incantation]] pronunciation.
  * In their first year, students learned basic spells like the [[Levitation Charm]].
  * By third year, students were expected to master more emotionally-driven magic like the [[Cheering Charm]].
  * In sixth year, the curriculum advanced to include the difficult and powerful art of [[non-verbal spell|non-verbal spells]].
=====Examples of Notable Charms=====
  * **[[Summoning Charm]] ([[Accio]]):** Summons an object to the caster.
  * **[[Banishing Charm]]:** The counter-charm to the [[Summoning Charm]], it sends objects away from the caster.
  * **[[Disarming Charm]] ([[Expelliarmus]]):** Forces a target to drop whatever they are holding, most often their [[wand]].
  * **[[Fidelius Charm]]:** An immensely complex and powerful charm that conceals a secret within the [[soul]] of a designated [[Secret-Keeper]].
  * **[[Levitation Charm]] ([[Wingardium Leviosa]]):** Causes an object to levitate.
  * **[[Memory Charm]] ([[Obliviate]]):** Erases or modifies a person's memories.
  * **[[Mending Charm]] ([[Reparo]]):** Repairs broken objects.
  * **[[Patronus Charm]] ([[Expecto Patronum]]):** Conjures a guardian of positive energy to repel [[Dementor|Dementors]].
  * **[[Shield Charm]] ([[Protego]]):** Creates a magical barrier to deflect minor to moderate spells and jinxes.
  * **[[Stunning Spell]] ([[Stupefy]]):** Renders a target unconscious.
  * **[[Unlocking Charm]] ([[Alohomora]]):** Unlocks doors and windows that are not protected by stronger magic.
  * **[[Water-Making Spell]] ([[Aguamenti]]):** Produces a jet of clean, drinkable water from the caster's [[wand]].
=====Etymology=====
The word "charm" originates from the Old French //charme//, which in turn comes from the Latin word //carmen//, meaning "song," "verse," or "enchantment." This etymology reflects the vital importance of the spoken [[incantation]] in the casting of many spells.
=====Behind the Scenes=====
  * The official Pottermore website (now Wizarding World) elaborates on the distinction between Charms and [[Transfiguration]], stating: "Charms are distinguished from Transfigurations in that a charm adds or changes properties of an object; it does not change the object into something else." (Pottermore)
  * While the books establish clear classifications for many spells, the boundaries can sometimes appear flexible. For example, powerful spells used in combat like [[Stupefy]] and [[Expelliarmus]] are consistently referred to as Charms, demonstrating that this category is not limited to simple, benign magic.