That Wacky Prefect Debate

[jenny from ravenclaw]

No: HPFGUIDX 27945

I'm not even near to being caught up with today's postings, but I was 
reading through yesterday's and I wanted to say this before I forget.

We are all wondering who will be a prefect next year, and consensus 
says that Hermione is a definite.  Quite a few people have also 
nominated Harry and Ron as probabilities.  Now, I know I am thinking 
like the teacher I am, but why would either Harry or Ron be a good 
candidate for prefecthood?  As much as I adore Harry, I don't think 
he's prefect material.  We have a few prefects to judge by (and that's 
not much), but I believe prefects are chosen by their grades and 
behavior.  There is no evidence that Harry gets above average grades 
and we all know he has been in trouble and has lost points for his 
house many times.  He is also busy with Quidditch and, not to be 
ignored, avidly hunted by the biggest and baddest Dark Wizard around.  
If I was a teacher at Hogwarts I'd recommend Harry not be elected for 
the position.  Aside from all of the things I mentioned, I don't think 
Harry would even want the job.  He is not one to turn in other 
students or take points from houses.  Harry hates the responsibilities 
his life has given him and hates being the constant focus of 
everyone's attention; why would he want to be a prefect, too?

I feel much the same way about Ron.  His grades are probably similar 
to Harry's and he has also been in his share of trouble.  I also don't
see Ron as much of a leader.  I'm not saying that I think Percy is a 
great leader, but he had the confidence as a prefect to stand up to 
students, even from his own house, when they are acting out of line.  
I cannot see Ron doing that.

I'm very curious to see how JKR will handle this.

--jenny from ravenclaw ***********************