[HPforGrownups] Re: Basilisk/Petrification Question

[Robert Gonzalez]

No: HPFGUIDX 47565



> --- In HPforGrownups at y..., "Strix" <kethlenda at y...> wrote:
> > I'm just bubbling over with questions today, so I think I'll de-
> lurk...
> >
> > A question about the basilisk, petrification, etc.:
> > If you wear glasses, and see the basilisk through the lenses of
> > the glasses, do you die?  It would seem to me that you would
> > only be petrified, just as you would be if you looked at it in a
> > mirror or through a camera lens.  But Moaning Myrtle was
> > shown, at least in the movie, as wearing glasses.  I need to go
> > back to the book to find out whether she really does wear them.
> > Any insights on this?
> >
> > Strix

me:
I hate to get this detailed but it might depend on the camera.
Some cameras (SLR or Single Lens Reflex) use mirrors and prisms to split the
view that comes through the lens. Thus what you see has been reflect toward
your eyes. While some cameras, usually cheaper instant cameras have a
different view finder lens in these you see a different image than comes
through the main lens. (That is why they are notorious for taking poor
pictures)
It would seem to me that a view through one of these cheaper cameras would
be the same as looking through glasses. A direct view not reflected or
obscured but rather focused straight at the eye. While through a better
camera would be the same as seeing a reflected image.

Rob