It can make her seem more vulnerable. Instead of just the brilliant, strong - willed Hermione, we see a side of her that is struggling with a very personal and difficult issue. This adds a new layer to her character.
There are a fair number of fanfictions with this theme. Hermione is a well - loved character, and exploring her in the context of an eating disorder can be a way for writers to add depth and realism. They can show her struggle, her journey towards recovery, and how her friends might react, which all makes for engaging and thought - provoking stories.
The fanfiction can also be a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, it can accurately depict the secrecy and denial that often come with an eating disorder. However, sometimes it might romanticize it a little bit, especially if the focus is more on the character's 'thinness' as a form of beauty rather than the real - life consequences of the disorder. But overall, when done well, it can be a powerful way to explore the complex nature of eating disorders within the Gossip Girl universe.
In some fanfictions, Hermione's eating disorder could be a way to explore deeper psychological issues within the wizarding world. McGonagall, as a strict yet caring teacher, might notice the signs. She could play a crucial role in Hermione's recovery, perhaps by providing support and guidance, much like she does for her students in other aspects of their Hogwarts lives.
McGonagall might be very concerned. She could immediately take Hermione aside and try to talk to her about it. She'd probably use her calm and authoritative voice to let Hermione know that she's noticed something is wrong.
She likely becomes more confident in her abilities outside of just academic knowledge. Saving Fred would require her to take risks and trust her instincts, which could make her more self - assured. For example, if she has to perform a spell she's not entirely sure about, but does it anyway to save Fred, it shows her growth in believing in herself.
She becomes more introspective. As a seer, she has to deal with the weight of knowledge that comes from her visions. This makes her more cautious and less impulsive compared to her original character. For example, she might think twice before jumping into a dangerous situation like she used to with Harry and Ron.
It could also be triggering for those who have struggled with eating disorders themselves or know someone who has. Reading about a beloved character like Hermione in such a context might bring back painful memories or emotions. Moreover, it might give the wrong impression to younger fans who might not fully understand the gravity of such issues and think it's something normal or acceptable within the context of the story.
Hermione's character could develop in several ways. Firstly, her new look might make her more aware of the shallowness of some people who only judge by appearance. So, she might become more empathetic towards those who are not conventionally attractive. Also, she could start using her appearance as a tool, like in negotiations or when trying to persuade someone. Since she was always smart, now she has an additional asset. This might make her more strategic in her actions. Moreover, she may attract new friends or even enemies because of her changed look, which in turn will shape her character further as she deals with different types of relationships.
It can distort the perception. People might start to see her more as a victim rather than the strong, intelligent character she is in the original. But it also adds a new layer of complexity.
In some cases, Hermione might develop a stronger sense of self - defense in such fanfiction. She could become more aware of the power imbalances around her. For example, if she's put in a situation where her consent is in question, she might start to question the systems in place in the wizarding world that allowed such a situation to occur.