JKR's Messages

[dumbledore11214]

No: HPFGUIDX 120813


Carol adds:
Without getting into the Snape aspect of this discussion, it seems
clear to me that both Harry and Hermione (and probably Ron as well)
need a clearer sense that actions have consequences. If you break
rules, you're punished; if you ignore people's feelings, they will
respond angrily; if you act without thinking, you'll make things 
worse instead of better. I don't know if that's how JKR sees things--
she seems to be a little fonder of "the end justifies the means if 
you're a Gryffindor" than I would like--but I think and hope that 
both (or all) of them will learn from their experiences and act more 
wisely in future books.


Alla:

Ummm, I don't know, Carol. I surely disagree with "if you break the 
rules you are punished" as one of JKR messages, because as I said 
many times - I believe that she is saying that breaking the rules 
for noble purpose is justified ( not always , but quite often). Of 
course good intentions could sometimes lead you towards the bad the 
road, but to me it just means that they should learn not to act rash.



Carol:

"...and that the means is just as important as the end."

Alla:

Of course I could not resist putting in a small bit of Snape. :o)

If means is just important as an end, would you agree that even if 
Snape acts as he is in order to "toughen Harry up" for battle with 
Voldemort, he is still not justified in being cruel to Harry (e.g 
means do not justify the end)?

What do you think?


Alla