The Mirror and the Heart

[nkafkafi]

No: HPFGUIDX 105356

SSSusan:
>> I really think it was all a set-up by DD, but for a different
purpose than you're putting forth. I think DD knew he was going
to use the mirror as the final protection for the Stone, and I
believe those 7 tasks were set up as *sort of* a protection but also
as a testing ground for Harry--to test his character, his
determination, and his talents & abilities. Showing the mirror to
Harry early allowed him to explain it to Harry; then he could test
his mettle, to see just what Harry was made of when the stone was on
the line.

<snip>

Jen:
> That seems a little dicey on Dumbledore's part, though. If
> there was a slip-up of any kind, he could lose the one and only
> person who can stop Voldemort from world domination, or UK
> domination at any rate ;).
><snip>

SSSusan:
I guess I see it as DD keeping a close enough eye on things (from
his mysterious, behind-the-scenes-SOMEHOW-seeing-everything
position) that he [or his designate--McG? Snape?] would have stepped
in if Harry got into too much trouble. Maybe that's making DD out
to be too omnipresent, but I like the story. :-)
<snip>

Neri:
I tend to side with Jen on this. Here is what DD had to say about it 
in OotP (Ch. 37):
-------------------------------------------------
    'And then . . . well, you will remember the events of your first 
year at Hogwarts quite as clearly as I do. You rose magnificently to 
the challenge that faced you and sooner — much sooner — than I had 
anticipated, you found yourself face to face with Voldemort. 
------------------------------------------------

So unless you believe DD liesoutright, he didn't plan for Harry's 
confrontation with Voldy in SS/PS. Could he plan the only 
mirror/stone part without knowing about LV? I guess he could, if he 
thought Quirrell is trying to get the stone for himself, but 
personally I don't think so.

Neri