[Ron Week]: More Questions

[Jim Flanagan]

No: HPFGUIDX 16170

Ron is arguably the least developed of the Hogwarts three, but he 
plays an important role in supplying H&H with critical information 
because of his Wizarding background.  As late as the 4th book he is 
still filling-in background information that Harry & Hermione didn't 
know because they were muggle-raised (info about giants; attitudes of 
house elves).  Here are a few more questions to help keep things 
going during Ron Week:

A. The ability to play chess well indicates a high native intellect, 
the ability to think strategically, and the ability to consider a 
large number of simultaneous threats.  Good chess players are 
frequently good in science and mathematics.  How has Ron demonstrated 
his native ability in areas other than the chess board?  

B. Is Ron suffering from depression?  There are a number of clues, 
including his bouts of low self-esteem, jealousy of Harry and 
Hermione, and poor performance in his school work (despite his high 
intellect, noted above).  What other signs of depression are found in 
the books?  How might this play out in later books -- i.e., is Ron a 
candidate to become a DE?

C. What does Ron's position in the family have to do with his actions 
and attitudes?  Does Ron show any classic "middle child" behaviors in 
canon?

D. Although Ron is a rabid Quidditch fan, he has not yet made the 
Gryffindor team.  How has Harry's success (in his first year!) 
affected their relationship?  Would it be a good thing for their 
relationship if Ron finally made the team?

E. Once Gred and Forge leave Hogwarts in Ron's sixth year, Ron will 
be the Senior Weasley at Hogwarts. How might this change his 
behaviors?