Neville (was: More on Snape & a couple of questions)

[bookraptor11]

No: HPFGUIDX 56535

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "Linda" <KIDATHEART_ at C...> 
wrote:
>          I think there is a large degree of difference in 
conotation 
> between the two terms. Just the way the words sound is a clue to 
> me. "Squib" just sounds negative, while "Muggle" has a harmless 
kind 
> of feel to it. Squib, to me, sounds like it may be a derogatory 
> term, meant as in insult rather than a designation of magical 
> ability. > 

Isn't a squib a firework that fizzles out, that doesn't work right?
That would make the term derogative with shadings of cruel humor, 
similar to putting someone down as impotent or ineffectual. A muggle 
just doesn't happen to be magical, but wasn't expected to be; a squib 
is expected to be, but is a dud.

> The only problem he [Neville] seems to have with 
> morality issues is that he has trouble standing up for what he 
> believes in. However, this is portrayed more as fear than 
> conviction. Once he sees personal courage around him,
> (I'm sure someone told him exactly what happened with his remembral 
> after he left for the hospital wing.)and receives encouragement 
from 
> his friends,("You're worth twelve of Malfoy.") he stands up for 
what 
> he feels is right, albeit trembling like Quirrell the whole time. 

Thanks for reminding me of the second quidditch match in PS/SS.  
Neville not only speaks up for himself to Malfoy ("I'm worth twelve 
of you, Malfoy." he stammered.), but when Ron jumps Malfoy, he jumps 
Crabbe and Goyle! Suicidal, but brave.

Donna