Why were the sacrifices different? (was: A moral theory of Magic )

[Karen]

No: HPFGUIDX 95338

Siriusly Snapey Susan:

I know *DD* stresses that Lily died to save Harry and that *that*
kind of sacrifice leaves a mark.... But frankly I've never
understood why it wasn't his PARENTS' sacrifice which BOTH left that
mark. Why wasn't James' sacrifice as "worthy" as Lily's?


Karen:
Voldemort says in PS/SS that he killed Harry's father but his mother 
need not have died. My thought has always been that the answer lies 
in Voldemort's intent. He intended to kill James all along so his 
death is not considered a sacrifice. Lily's death is considered a 
sacrifice because Voldemort gave her the chance to live.  To me the 
question is why would let Lily live?

Karen