The Dullest Redemption Subplot Ever (WAS: Evil Is...)

[sp_nelliekay <indianspark@hotmail.com>]

No: HPFGUIDX 51630

You know, I've always found it puzzling why so many people have such 
a fascination in Draco's character. There seem to be countless fics 
and sites devoted to this one character whom, according to JKR's 
intent (I'm sorry, I don't want to discuss authorial intent. It just 
slipped out!) is a really spoiled, snobby, prejudiced little 
oppurtunist. And yet, Draco is often the symbol and posterchild of 
the Potterverse's darker, angsty-er side. The 
misunderstood, "redeemable" anti-hero who nobody *sigh* understands. 

I agree when you say that, to be worthy of a "redeemed!" subplot, he 
must do something that makes him seem unredeemable first. I've always 
read Malfoy as being the schoolyard bully who poses no real threat, 
besides pure annoyance. He's certainly not the antagonist. It seems 
he was created to remind the reader that Harry's life isn't going to 
do a 180 from being at Privet Drive, to attending Hogwarts. There 
will still be bullies who, despite their hard talk, are just full of 
hot air. This idea is reaffirmed (in my mind) by the several 
comparisons Harry has made between Draco and Dudley. And Dudley is 
hardly an evil overlord-in-training, is he? ;) (Although, JKR *did* 
say we'd find out something unusual about the Dursleys in Book 5. 
Maybe Duddymort will be the next Dark Lord.)

By the way, this is my first post at HP4GU. Sorry if I sound like a 
big flaming newbie!

-Silver Patronus