When Did Hermione Realize Ron Loved Her?
Throughout the Harry Potter series, fans have wondered when Hermione Granger first realized that Ron Weasley had genuine feelings for her. While the moments of realization are not as stark as some relationships in the books, it is clear that Ron's feelings for Hermione developed over a period of time, though an impactful moment during the Yule Ball in Hogwarts: Past and Future - The Cursed Child solidified the connection.
Building the Foundation
The roots of Ron's affection for Hermione can be traced back to at least the second book, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. While he may have had a crush on her, Ron was unsure about his feelings until the events of the sixth book, Hogwarts: A History—but that's a story for another day.
Significant Moments
To fully understand when Hermione realized Ron's feelings for her, we need to look at the significant moments in the books. One notable scene happens in Hogwarts: The Goblet of Fire - The Unexpected Task, where Ron attempts to ask Hermione to the Yule Ball but is rejected. While Ronald's initial reaction might seem dismissive, it was a key moment that foreshadowed his growing feelings.
When Hermione stated she had already gone with someone else, Ronald's response was tinged with concern. His interrogation of his sister Ginny, who had knowledge of Hermione’s true intentions, indicates a deep-seated interest. He was left with the feeling that Hermione was lying and his jealousy was evident. This scene, though initially not about Ron's feelings, set the stage for his emotional journey.
The Turning Point: The Yule Ball
The most significant moment in Hermione and Ron's developing relationship occurs during the Yule Ball in Hogwarts: The Goblet of Fire - The Unexpected Task. During the ball, Ron sees Viktor Krum leading Hermione onto the dance floor. His jealousy is palpable, and this event serves as a catalyst for his true feelings to come into the open.
However, it’s crucial to mention the importance of this scene is further emphasized in Hogwarts: A History - The Cursed Child. In this play, it is revealed that if any changes were made to history, specifically to the Yule Ball, leading Hermione to not dance with Viktor, Ron and Hermione would not have settled together.
Surprising Rejection
Despite his initial rejection and subsequent jealousy, Hermione chooses to go with Neville Longbottom for the ball. This choice of Hermione not only highlights her sense of right and wrong but also her unspoken feelings towards Ron. Her rejection of Neville and her going with him might imply that she had a preference for Ron, despite not realizing it.
The Emotional Journey
It's not a single magic moment of realization, but rather a gradual process where Ronald's feelings become more clear to Hermione. The details in the books, especially the events leading up to the Yule Ball, show a subtle shift in their relationship. Hermione's rejection of Ron in Goblet of Fire signifies her understanding of his growing feelings, even if she didn't fully acknowledge them yet.
While the rejection might seem harsh, it actually sets the stage for future moments where she begins to see signs of his affection. As the books progress, Hermione starts to notice Ron's changed behavior and the way he tries to make her feel better, which gradually makes her realize the depth of his feelings for her.
Conclusion
The realization of Ron's feelings for Hermione is a journey that spans multiple books and moments within the series. While the Yule Ball scene is a significant turning point, it is the culmination of smaller, more subtle events that guide their relationship towards the inevitable bond that fans adore.