JKR's Messages (was Re: Hermione In Trouble?)

[pippin_999]

No: HPFGUIDX 120814



> Carol adds:
> I don't know about either of you, but I'm bothered by the word
> "innate," which suggests that their goodness is inborn--a 
concept very much at odds with the idea of choice. If they're 
innately good, they can make mistakes (and they do), but they 
can't become evil.<

Pippin:

I'm not sure I follow you. 'Innate' doesn't have to mean 'inviolate.' 
Innate goodness can be damaged, and is, by the choices of 
others and by the characters' own choices. Once damaged, the 
characters may have to fight  their own instincts in order to 
choose good.

 Further, the characters  learn that  the choice to resist evil, in 
themselves or in others, may cost them or their friends dearly. To 
make the right choice under those conditions takes courage, 
and that is not innate, it has to be cultivated. Tom Riddle, among 
other things, chose to cultivate greatness instead.

Pippin