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

[cubfanbudwoman]

No: HPFGUIDX 95354

Akh wrote:
I'm now going to stick my (rather short) neck out and say that the 
qualitative difference in James' and Lily's sacrifice is in the 
interpretation of the reader, not the intention of the author.  The 
charm associated with Lily's death makes her sacrifice more 
complicated, therefore in need of greater explanation in the books.  
However, that doesn't diminish James' role in Harry's survival.  In 
POA, when Lupin is upbraiding Harry for venturing to Hogsmeade, he 
says, "But I would have thought that what you have heard when the 
Dementors draw near you would have had more of an effect on you.  
Your *parents* gave *their lives* [emphasis mine]to keep you alive, 
Harry." (P.213 in my NEW UK paperback edition!)    
 
Akh, who just realized she could be called "Nearly Neckless 
Anita" ... or not.

Siriusly Snapey Susan:
No need to worry about that neck!!  You are correct to note that at 
least part of the problem lay w/ me as a reader and what I was 
focusing on. Neri also pointed out this 2nd DD explanation, much 
more focused on James, in PoA.  It has assuaged my concern a good 
bit! 

Now, as to whether the particular roles/sacrifices of James & Lily 
appear as gender-type expectations, I'm still willing to argue a 
bit.  :-)

Siriusly Snapey Susan, who suspects it's time for her to quit 
yammering about this one.