[HPforGrownups] Literal interpretations?

[Amanda Lewanski]

No: HPFGUIDX 2974

Jim Flanagan wrote:

> If Hagrid were from Texas (like myself) I'd have
> to take this statement with a grain of salt, since we Texans are
> inclined to exaggerate *just a tad* for effect.

No, none of us ever, ever exaggerate at all.

> Different
> nationalities have reputations for exaggeration: the Irish are widely
> known for "blarney," but the Scots and Germans are considered more
> strait-laced. Do the people from rural south-west England (presumably
> where Hagrid is from) have a reputation for hyperbole?  If so, then
> we should not look only to Slitherin for potential Death Eaters.

I think that in Hagrid's case, he's a simple soul. By that I mean
childlike in his view, very trusting and still very black-and-white,
although he has an undeniable wisdom and depth. But yes, I think any
analysis of the offhand comments needs to take context and mood of the
speaker into account as well; not everyone pauses to ensure the absolute
literal truth of their statements in every situation. Not even me,
paragon of virtue that I am

/SIZZLE/

*ahem* lightning-fried semi-paragon that I am. I think Slytherin's rep
for evil wizards comes from the fact that their "alpha" characteristic is
ambition, which more easily leads one into evil than the other Houses'
guiding characteristics.

> "When you're in Odessa, Texas, check out The World's Largest
> Jackrabbit."

Might as well, there's nothing else to do......

Go Permian!

--Amanda