The Legilimency Spell (Legilimens) allows the caster to perform Legilimency; in other words, to delve into the mind of the victim, permitting the caster to see memories, emotions and thoughts. Skilled Legilimens, such as Lord Voldemort, are able to perform Legilimency without using the incantation or a wand.

History of use

Professor Snape used this spell on Harry Potter while attempting to train him in Occlumency in the 1995–1996 school year. He also used it nonverbally in 1997 to find out where Harry learned the Sectumsempra spell.

Behind the scenes

• As Bellatrix Lestrange taught her nephew Draco Malfoy Occlumency, it is likely she also used this spell to achieve the same method as Snape did Harry.
• In LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7, the spell Focus is used in the place of "Legilimens". It is unknown why this change was made, as they both have the same effect. However Focus is only used to clear the mind. In the film Snape says that Harry have to clear his mind. It is possible that in LEGO, this spell was used before Legilimens.

Etymology

Latin legere, "to read", and mens, "mind".

Appearances

• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (First appearance)
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (film)
• Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1
• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (Appears in flashback(s))
• LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7