Can Occlumency be taught ? Yes ........ and No.

[khinterberg]

No: HPFGUIDX 120579


Steve wrote:
> As far as Snape and Occlumency, I suspect Snape became aware that he
> had a natural talent for this as he grew. Snape seems like an
> emotionally guarded person. I can picture him closing himself off when
> he sensed someone was trying to get a 'read' of him, and I mean this
> in the more general sense. This tendency to guard his emotions may
> have been what lead him to become aware the he had a far more than
> average ability to do this. Keep in mind that 'guarding your emotions'
> has more to do with hiding a sense of vulnerability than with keeping
> your anger in check.
> 
> 
First of all, wonderfully thought-out post.  I definitely agree with
you on almost everything.  I was just wondering where, in your
version, does this comment from Snape in Occlumency lessons fit in:

"Fools who wear their hearts proudly on their sleeves, who cannot
control their emotions, who wallow in sad memories and allow
themselves to be provoked this easily--weak people, in other
words--they stand no chance against his powers!"

Many people tend to think Snape is speaking from experience here. 
This would make one assume that at one point Snape had failed at
controlling his emotions around the Dark Lord...although he could have
been quite good at it most of the time, as he is around Harry, but one
time was so distraught over something that he let his emotions get
away from him? What are your thoughts?

khinterberg