Is Dumbledore Vain?

[opaldragonfly at yahoo.com]

No: HPFGUIDX 27642

Well--considering that according to the OED, Dumbledore's name was 
derived from "humblebee" and only later came "bumblebee" (even though 
the "humble" was the sound and not the descriptor of modest ego), I 
think Dumbledore is humble.  He is considerate of all--even those 
annoyingly vicious towards him--Rita, Lucius, etc.  Also, let's 
remember his age--he is at least 150 (according to JKR) and styles 
were different as he was maturing!  Of course, it sounds like, from 
his interaction with Nicolas Flammel, for instance, that he may very 
well be much older.  In that case, his sense of fashion has been well-
set in other ages!  Perhaps these clothes ARE the most comfortable 
for him since he may be quite used to them.  Perhaps the clothes 
themselves are aspects of his magic--allowing him to literally "hide 
things up his sleeves"!
   At his age, what cares he for the opinions of others about his 
powers or appearance?  He focuses on two things:  the well-being and 
education of his beloved students and the fate of the "good" side of 
the magic world.  His taste in clothing may be idiosynchratic, but 
hey--I'd still rather have him on my side in the coming conflict!!!  
Opal Dragonfly