[HPforGrownups] Re: Metamorphagi

[Helen R. Granberry]

No: HPFGUIDX 86101


I'm sure you're right that Harry is not a metamorphagus any more than
he'll become an animagus like his father (JKR's remark that he won't
have time to learn transfiguration on that level seems to apply here,
too, especially since he doesn't seem to have any natural aptitude
beyond growing back his hair). And why would JKR need another
metamorphagus when she already has Tonks, who will surely have a
larger (and I hope more interesting) role in future books? I'd like to
see her turn into Bellatrix, myself--with the real Bellatrix properly
stunned and tied to prevent her escape. A little memory modification
courtesy of Mad Eye Moody would probably be necessary if they decided
to let her go.

Carol


Hi Carol,

I would like for Tonks to have a larger, more interesting role in the
books as well (and I think she will). I like the idea of her turning
into Bellatrix -- that would be great.

One thing to keep in mind here is that Harry has had no reason to change
his looks EXCEPT for that one instance. A lot of people have used the
argument that if Harry *is* a Metamorphmagus, why hasn't he made himself
older/taller/have blue hair/etc. like Tonks does, and the answer is...
he hasn't had a reason to even try. He didn't know there was a such
thing as a Metamorphmagus until he met one. Tonks, growing up with
wizarding parents, probably did, or at least had someone around her who
would recognize any accidental shape shifting she did as Metamorphmagus
ability.  

Why would she need another Metamorphmagus? Well, why would she need
another Parselmouth? Or Animagus? I don't think this is a valid argument
against, simply because we have seen too many instances of other
supposedly 'special' or 'rare' abilities. 

Now, regarding time, here is what she says:

SB: We're going to take a few more questions, and um, the next one is
will Harry ever turn into a shape-changer like his father?

JKR: Animagus. No, Harry's not in training to be an animagus, and if
you've read book three, you won't know - um, that's a wizard that's
very, very difficult to do. They learn to turn themselves into animals.
No, Harry is not, Harry is going to be concentrated elsewhere, he's not
going to have time to do that. He's got quite a full agenda coming up,
poor boy.."

She says his time will be concentrated elsewhere (not on becoming an
Animagus *specifically*) and that he has a full agenda coming up. That
agenda may include learning to hone Metamorpmagus skills, just like that
agenda includes Occlumency lessons with Snape and studying for his OWLs.
Also, again, the Interviewer asks if Harry will become a 'shape
changer'. JKR corrects him before saying no. THAT is what I find most
telling about that quote.

Helen, who is more attached to her theories than her ships ;)