[HPforGrownups] Lucius caring for Draco? (was Re: Malfoys and Dursleys)

[shane dunphy]

No: HPFGUIDX 47409

David wrote:
>I think the B&B scene is capable of more than one interpretation. While I 
>would not commend Lucius' criticism of Draco in front of Borgin as good 
>parenting, I think it is compatible with caring. It could reflect anxiety 
>about Draco's progress, and the (probably mistaken) belief that to mention 
>it in this way will encourage Draco to buck up.

You could certainly interpret the text like that, but I think that there are 
a couple of points worth considering in relation to LM and Draco.  Lucius's 
criticism seem to be focussed on how it looks having Draco less successful 
than a Muggle born like Hermione.  This would lead us to believe that he is 
worried about how it will reflect on him.  The criticism then does not show 
Lucius as a caring (if authoritarian) father, but a parent to whom children 
are a status symbol.  His buying of the brooms for the Slytherin Quidditch 
team is another reflection of this.  Rather than going out and practising 
with Draco, encouraging him to be a better player and gaining a position on 
the team through talent, he buys Draco a way in.  This would relfect concern 
with how things look, rather than genuine concern for his son's welfare.

David again:
>There is one other intriguing little sidelight. In his very first 
>appearance, Draco talks about 'bullying' his father (IIRC) into getting him 
>a broomstick. This could be empty boasting, and it is almost certainly not 
>literal truth. It does suggest to me a bit more to the relationship than 
>stern authority.

Granted.  However, Lucius's parenting style would naturally encourage Draco 
to be demanding materially.  Lucius's attitude appears to be that material 
displays of affection (buying your son a broom) will satisfy the child 
emotionally as well.  This is not appropriate child care.  As we have seen, 
Draco is a troubled, damaged child.

Shane



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