Vengeance

[finwitch <finwitch@yahoo.com>]

No: HPFGUIDX 51802

Debbie: 
> 
> I'd say the jury is still out on the Ton-Tongue Toffee, despite 
Harry's evident approval of what he obviously saw as harmless 
comeuppance.  However, I see a big difference between the Twins' 
premeditated act in the Ton-Tongue Toffee incident and Hermione's 
slap and the Trio hexing Draco on the train, both of which were 
stressful reactions and not truly acts of vengeance or comeuppance, 
even though the victims might see them in that light.  For JKR's real 
message on the subject of vengeance, I go back to Harry's refusal to 
allow the killing of Pettigrew -- vengeance may be sweet, but mercy 
is sweeter and the satisfaction more lasting.  
---

Me:
Ton Tongue Toffee...
Twins knew their father would fix it so no permanent harm.
Dudley: You know, maybe _this_ will actually help Dudley (Because now 
he's scared of sweets giving him the Ton Tongue) and thus make his 
diet work and perhaps, save his life.
Mr and Mrs Dursley: Accept magic performed for Dudley's sake.

It was a lesson for them all - not one they like, but life's lessons 
seldom are.

On vengeange-- approved?
I think not. Snape's grudge is no good.
Harry chooses to spare the one who betrayed his parents.
Crouch-as-Moody turning Malfoy into ferret and McGonagall's outrage..
We know Crouch was a baddie, so this isn't an approved method, huh?

Yes, interesting thing about McGonagall scolding for _transfiguring_ 
not for the bouncing... She's taken Malfoy by the ear at least once 
(on account of telling nasty and unbelievable 'lies' about Harry 
Potter) and I doubt she sees bouncing as any worse.

Still, she's the transfiguration teacher and probably as keen on her 
subject as the dentists Granger are about teeth...

-- Finwitch