[HPforGrownups] Harry's Politeness & JKR's Diction

[Jason Bailey]

No: HPFGUIDX 29369

Saturday, November 17, 2001, 6:15:37 AM, Megan wrote:
M> When considering Harry's background (as a normal child) one has to
M> wonder where and why he always uses (for the most part, mind you)
M> extremely good manners.

Tough times bring out the best or worst in us. Thankfully for Harry,
it brought out the best. You can be sure that manners where taught
with an "iron fist" in the Dursleys' home.

M> On the same lines but not quite, has anyone noticed how in GOF JKR
M> initially names Ludo Bagman "Bagman" and Barty Crouch "Mr. Crouch"? 
M> Is this distinction designed to subtly show the respective authority
M> of these two men?

Here's my theory, when I played American Football and Basketball (much
like in the US American military) we had the tendency to call
each other by our surnames. Bagman, being a former jock, probably
prefers it that way...he was also trying to be friendly with Harry and
thus initiated the more familiar tone. Mr. Crouch on the other hand is
too formal and never tries to become friendly with Harry. I believe
Sirius calls him Crouch and I'm sure that has a lot to do with his
imprisonment sans trial. Now, I want to know why everyone calls the
keeper of the keys Hagrid rather than Rubeus?