The "face-value" theory of PoA -- now with shiny acronym! (LONG)

[dumbledore11214]

No: HPFGUIDX 45382

--- In HPforGrownups at y..., "marinafrants" <rusalka at i...> wrote:
> In the absence of a master plan, Snape's reactions in PoA have to 
be 
> taken at face-value -- that is, we have to assume they are genuine, 
> and not part of a carefully constructed performance designed to 
> further a strategic goal.  The question then is, do his reactions 
> make sense in that context, given what we know of the character's 
> history and psychological makeup from all the books?  I believe the 
> answer is yes.
> 
 In keeping with the 
> kitchen appliance theme of this topic, I hereby dub this theory 
> PRESSURE COOKER: Presented with Remus' Evil, Snape's Somewhat 
> Unhinged; Refuses Explanations, Confronts Outrageously Overt 
> Killers; Embarrassment Results.
> 
> All we need now is for somebody to come up with a Kitchen-Sink 
> theory, and we'll be all set.
> 
> Marina
> rusalka at i..

Thank you and thank you again! I was trying to figure out why as 
much as I respect MAGIC DISHWASHER as very well thought out theory, I 
absolutely  disagree with it. I realize now that MD interpretation of 
Snape actions bugs me the most. I hope I am not offending anybody 
who supports the theory. To me your face value reading of PoA events 
makes much more sense.

I like Snape a lot, but while I view him as a very honourable 
character, I don't see him as a a very emotionally mature 
character at this point in the books. I am talking of course about 
his hate of Sirius and relationship with Harry and Co.
I read Snape actions in PoA as actions of the man consumed by hate 
and revenge and desire to protect Harry at the same time. I think 
face-value reading supports it.

I am not sure whether it is metathinking or not, but I feel that 
Magic Dishwasher takes from Snape the opportunity for further 
emotional growth (getting over old grudges :o)) and I like him (and 
Sirius) too much to agree with this interpretation.
Alla