Spying Game Philosophy - The Phoenix must die!

[KathyK]

No: HPFGUIDX 81156

digger:

<snip> 
>>Are those seeking *political* power in the WW trying to make up 
for their lack of *magical* power? I'm obviously excluding Aurors 
and other folk like Shaklebolt and Arthur Weasley, who are 
manifestly NOT seeking political power, though they work for the 
Ministry. Is this why Fudge and his office staff have such a fear of 
Dumbledore, because has possibly the greatest magical power of all 
living wizards?<<


Severus here:
 
>If I recall correctly, Percy was head boy, and to receive that I 
would think you would have to do very well on your O.W.L.'s and 
N.E.W.T.'s.  In order to be considered for a position in the MOM, I 
would think you would need to be very well versed in the use of your 
magic abilities.  Now, that is not saying you are powerful, as DD 
obviously is, but you can perform the standard spells, just with out 
the push behind them.  So in the case of Umbridge, Fudge, (wasn't he 
also an Auror?), and Percy, I think they could be formitable enemies 
if they are seduced by the dark arts.<

KathyK:

Maybe Percy just tests well? <g>  No, I agree that they have to have 
a decent amount of knowledge and ability in order to have the stuff 
to work for the Ministry.  Especially because of the imbedded 
prejudice in the WW against those without maigc.  Having Ministry 
employees, especially those in powerful positions, without any real 
wizarding talent doesn't make sense, IMO.  

Also, there was Crouch Sr. who, according to Sirius in GoF, 
was "powerfully magical--and power-hungry." (US paperback 526)

Plus Crouch did put that mind-damaging memory charm on Bertha 
Jorkins.  That had some power behind it.

I can't remember whether or not Fudge was ever an auror, but at the 
time of the Potter's death he was a Junior minister in the 
Department of Magical Catastrophies.  And I'm way too tired to go 
digging through books this evening.

KathyK (ever so graciously sharing her birthday with Hermione)