significance in McGonagalls years of service?

[Rachna]

No: HPFGUIDX 78135

<elizabeth1603 at y...> wrote:
<snip>
> Now, McGonagall's answer is what I find intriguing. We learn that 
> she has been at Hogwarts for thirty-nine years, but we don't find out any 
> new information behind her arrival at Hogwarts. Is this information 
> that we're supposed to keep in the back of our minds for a later purpose?
> 
> I have my own opinions about McGonagall. She came to Hogwarts 
> twenty-four years before Harry was born. I believe she is Harry's great-
> grandmother on James's side, and that, for some reason (perhaps James's  
> father was killed), it became necessary for her to take on a job to help the 
> family out when James was born. 
> 
> Now, I know this theory doesn't fall in line with the "James was 
> well-off" theory, and it's a little far-fetched besides. What do you think?
> 
> Elli

I agree in that I also think McGonagall is James's mother or 
grandmother. When I read the message, I immediately remembered this:

---
Sheila McCleary: Have any of the Hogwarts professors had spouses? 

JKR: Good question - yes, a few of them but that information is sort 
of restricted - you'll find out why. 

(Comic Relief, March 2001 Live Chat)
---
It could very well be restricted because she is related to Harry.
As well, she is the transfiguration teacher and James was very good 
at it - and one of the reasons he got to be one of the top students 
could be because he had a professor at home.

I know there is very little canon evidence, but I still like this 
theory.

Rachna