Periculum
Spell Information
History and Known Uses
The `Periculum` charm's most notable use occurs during the Third Task of the Triwizard Tournament in 1995. The four Triwizard Champions were instructed by Bartemius Crouch Sr. to cast this spell if they encountered trouble within the Triwizard Maze, which would signal their desire to be rescued from the task. During the event, Harry Potter cast the spell on behalf of Fleur Delacour after discovering her unconscious and entangled in enchanted roots within the maze. The red sparks shot into the sky, alerting the event organizers to her location so she could be retrieved. Later in the maze, Cedric Diggory contemplated using the spell when he was attacked by a Cruciatus Curse-wielding Viktor Krum, who was under the influence of the Imperius Curse. However, Harry arrived and stunned Krum before Cedric needed to signal for help.
Learning and Counter-Spells
The specific requirements for learning this spell are unknown, though it was evidently simple enough to be taught to the Triwizard Champions for a single, specific purpose. As a signaling charm rather than an offensive or defensive one, it does not have a direct counter-spell.
Etymology
The incantation `Periculum` is the Latin word for “danger,” “peril,” “risk,” or “trial.” This name directly reflects the spell's function as a signal used by a witch or wizard who is in a dangerous or perilous situation.
Behind the Scenes
- In the film adaptation of *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*, Harry casts the spell for Fleur just as he does in the novel. (film)
- The spell makes another appearance in the film * The Crimes of Grindelwald*. Newt Scamander and Tina Goldstein use it in the French Ministry of Magic's records room, where it produces a large, firework-like display to create a diversion, suggesting a broader application than just a simple distress signal. (film)
- `Periculum` is a learnable spell in the mobile game * Hogwarts Mystery*. (video game)
