Do Draco and Hermione Have a Connection Beyond Rivalry?

JK Rowling, the creator of the Harry Potter series, has addressed the complex relationship between Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger. Many fans are curious about whether Draco really likes Hermione or if it's just a rivalry. Let's dive into the complex dynamics between these two characters.

Draco's Fears and Disgust

No, according to J.K. Rowling, Draco is not fond of Hermione. In fact, he is disgusted by her, and she is disgusted by him. Draco Malfoy's upbringing made him believe that Purebloods are superior to those with Muggle parents. Hermione, on the other hand, is the most powerful and accomplished student at Hogwarts, surpassing even the instructors in knowledge and magic. Draco's fear and disgust stem from her breaking away from the beliefs he was raised with, making him realize that magical superiority is not determined by blood status.

Draco's fear of Hermione is not just about her prowess in magic. He fears what she represents and how it challenges the very foundation of his belief system. As such, he avoids her and does not like her, viewing her with a degree of contempt.

Revelations from J.K. Rowling

Interestingly, J.K. Rowling herself mentioned that Draco had a crush on Hermione during their time at Hogwarts. This was not explicitly stated in the books but was part of the character development process. This revelation adds an interesting layer to their dynamic, especially considering the rivalry between their families and their respective houses. However, it's important to note that this is not a romantic interest as some fans might believe. Instead, Draco's interest is more sinister and malevolent.

Draco's Dark Thoughts

Draco finds immense pleasure in seeing Hermione in pain. He relishes the moments when she cries, is scared, or when her friends suffer. It’s a disturbing motif that adds depth to his character, portraying him as someone who enjoys the suffering of others. It also highlights the toxic and manipulative nature of Draco's personality.

Desirable but Detrimental

Many fans and critics disagree with the idea that Draco likes Hermione. They argue that Draco is a racist and a douche, and Hermione is the epitome of bravery, intelligence, and capability. Her desirability, if considered in this context, can be viewed as a form of detraction from the overall narrative of Harry Potter, where these two characters are meant to continue living their lives separately.

Some argue that Hermione's desirability is a form of dramatic irony, where the author puts forward an idea that is ultimately rejected by reality. This is why J.K. Rowling declares that if someone has a significant other, their SO probably wishes to be with Hermione. The author's frustration with fan expectations is evident in her response, especially in the famous Wunderland interview where she mentions feeling forced to pair Hermione and Harry together.

Johnson concludes that Draco's feelings towards Hermione have more to do with his own insecurities and fears than any genuine affection. Draco's critical thoughts and desires are meant to illustrate deeper themes within the Harry Potter universe, such as the battle against prejudice and the realization that true power comes from within.

Conclusion

In summary, there is no clear evidence to suggest that Draco truly likes Hermione. Instead, his interactions with her are better understood through a lens of fear, disgust, and malevolent pleasure. While J.K. Rowling herself acknowledged his feelings for her, these feelings are not the same as romantic love. The Draco-Hermione dynamic is a complex one that adds depth to their individual characters and the broader narrative of the Harry Potter series.

Further Reading

If you're interested in diving deeper into the nuances of the Draco-Hermione relationship, consider reading the original Harry Potter series and analyzing the characters and storylines in more detail. There are also numerous fan theories and analyses available online that offer further insights.