While it is true that each fantasy world has its own rules, the world of harry potter seems to have some contradictions. Throughout the series the use of magic seems to become progressively more codified. In the earlier books there are all of the things that Harry, and all young wizards, can do naturally without a wand. Snape and Quirrel were able to curse and counter-curse Harry's broomstick through maintaining eye contact and speaking; no mention of wands. There are many ambiguous bits of magic like the household "spells" that may require a wand, but almost certainly require no incantations. However, by the end of the seventh book, there are explanations for non-verbal spells, and everything seems to involve some sort of incantation (silent or aloud) and wand-work. It seems almost as if the rules of magic in the Harry Potter world changed throughout the series. I think that the movies use sorcery which closer parallels the open-ended magic of the beginning of the series.   See 6 other replies

I seem to recall that Harry Potter "inflated" his cruel Aunt Marge, and also made his hair grow back after a tragic haircut. Tom Riddle was said to "make things move without touching them" and "make animals do what he wanted without training them". Neither character was in possession of a wand during those occurences. I'd always felt the wand was only a tool which allowed a Witch or Wizard to focus his/her abilities, but those abilities could be utilized (though perhaps not as effectively) regardless.   See 6 other replies

sure, in fantasy in general, writers and filmmakers can have their wizards do whatever they want. but once established, each fantasy world has its own set of rules for magic. and in harry potter, they have to use a wand. they can do a spell without speaking, and they can charm objects to be magical so you could have something that responds magically without a wand, but technically, via the jk rowling wizarding world, they can't do incantations without a wand, regardless of accomplishment.   See 6 other replies

In fantasy lore, wether it be Lord Of The Rings, Harry Potter or the Forgotten Realms Book series, wizards can use magic without wands or wizard staffs, for instance their hands or by thought with powerful wizards as A R. posted. It's fantasy...there are no rules. If you want to know more about Wizards, Witches, Paladins, Mages, Warlocks, Griffins, Dragons and Elves, I am a fantasy encyclopedia.   See 6 other replies

then you recall incorrectly   See 6 other replies

I think the accomplished wizards can do magic without a wand.There is some mention of this in the later books.   See 6 other replies