Chapter 10: Concentration and Determination
Concentration is one of the hardest things to perfect for spells. Speaking the incantation, conducting the wand movements, focusing upon a target, and having enough willpower are all important for the spells that require them, but managing all of this while also concentrating upon a thought, feeling or desire is usually very taxing. Concentrating upon something like the Dancing Lights Charm may involve concentrating on the effects of the spell, but spells typically require that you have an idea in mind as you cast them.
The best way to discuss concentration may be to look at the spells that require it. The most well-known charm that has this requirement is the Patronus Charm. The charm is meant to repel dementors, but it requires that the user concentrate upon a very happy, very powerful memory. The memory then shapes the magic to create a non-living embodiment of happiness that a Dementor cannot handle.
Another defensive charm you'll hear more about requires that the user imagine their worst fear, and then consider a way to make that fear seem funny. It's not easy to cast, especially as you must confront your fear just before you say the spell. As these spells demonstrate, you need to be in a difficult position already when you are casting the spells. Casting a spell in the comfort of your room with plenty of space and time to practice is one thing, but having to cast the spell while the happiness is being sucked from you or your worst fear is becoming a reality is another altogether.
There are also a series of curses, known as the Unforgivable Curses due to their effects. Each of these curses require that the caster truly believe in them in order for them to be effective. You can get some mild effect otherwise, but unless you truly intend and want to intentionally harm someone else they are useless. Such spells also require a ridiculous amount of willpower and focus, and their use against another human being will earn you a lifetime in Azkaban.
As demonstrated, concentration can mean several things. While it usually appears only in more advanced magic, there are some good practice spells the beginner witch or wizard can use to understand the required mindset. These spells, modifications of the Wand-Lighting Charm, can be found in Chapter 17. Understanding how they work will help you significantly when casting such spells in the future.
The best way to discuss concentration may be to look at the spells that require it. The most well-known charm that has this requirement is the Patronus Charm. The charm is meant to repel dementors, but it requires that the user concentrate upon a very happy, very powerful memory. The memory then shapes the magic to create a non-living embodiment of happiness that a Dementor cannot handle.
Another defensive charm you'll hear more about requires that the user imagine their worst fear, and then consider a way to make that fear seem funny. It's not easy to cast, especially as you must confront your fear just before you say the spell. As these spells demonstrate, you need to be in a difficult position already when you are casting the spells. Casting a spell in the comfort of your room with plenty of space and time to practice is one thing, but having to cast the spell while the happiness is being sucked from you or your worst fear is becoming a reality is another altogether.
There are also a series of curses, known as the Unforgivable Curses due to their effects. Each of these curses require that the caster truly believe in them in order for them to be effective. You can get some mild effect otherwise, but unless you truly intend and want to intentionally harm someone else they are useless. Such spells also require a ridiculous amount of willpower and focus, and their use against another human being will earn you a lifetime in Azkaban.
As demonstrated, concentration can mean several things. While it usually appears only in more advanced magic, there are some good practice spells the beginner witch or wizard can use to understand the required mindset. These spells, modifications of the Wand-Lighting Charm, can be found in Chapter 17. Understanding how they work will help you significantly when casting such spells in the future.