Chapters 21–30
Wandcraft
The Cerynaian hind is the Golden Hind of Greek mythology.
Hermione’s new wand is at 16.535 433 071inches exactly 42 centimetres long.
Conditions of Indenture
Potions Master vs. Potions master: The canon terminology of Potions master probably refers only to the fact that Snape is teacher at Hogwarts. However, since there are no universitiesfor further academic studies, the most common way of magical training after school could very well be an apprenticeship to a Master of a special branch of magic. In that respect Snape would be not only a Potions master, but a Potions Master or Master of Potions. This is (American) fanon, but it ties in well with historical European traditions of craftsmanship.
The “Indenture of Apprenticeship” is based on the wording of a historical contract of a carpenter’s apprenticeship from the 17th century.
The Apprenticeship Begins
The oath of apprenticeship is based on the contract included in the previous chapter and on an oath of apprenticeship used by the Society for Creative Anachronism. A medieval oath of fealty was traditionally sealed with a kiss on the mouth.
Many Meetings
The title of the chapter alludes to a chapter in “Lord of the Rings”, “The Fellowship of the Ring”.
Slytherin Colours and Order Business
Snape’s scent is based on my favourite scent for men by L’Occitane en Provence, “Vetyver”.
Party Time at Slytherin House
The first song at the party is “Summer of 69” by Bryan Adams.
Discofox is a European disco-dance from the Seventies that is still quite popular in Germany.