Harry learning from Snape (was: stopper death)

[cubfanbudwoman]

No: HPFGUIDX 114517


Dzeytoun:
> B) Actually, I don't think the question of "learning from Snape" 
> is one that needs to be put in stark terms of "defiance" 
> or "ignoring Snape's insults."  That is a false dichotomy, and 
> implies that either Harry must defy Snape and learn nothing or 
> else adopt some reprehensible policy that injustice doesn't matter 
> as long as it serves some greater good.
> 
> So, actually the best response to Snape, in terms of Harry's 
> options, would be "defiance while learning."  That is, Harry 
> should listen to whatever worthwhile information Snape imparts 
> while at the same time maintaining a clear posture of cold 
> contempt for Snape's attitude and behavior.  UNDER NO 
> CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD HE RESPOND TO SNAPE WITH RESPECT UNLESS THE 
> RESPECT HAS BEEN EARNED.  I've dealt with many Snapes over a long 
> period in both academics and government, and the only way to 
> permanently address the issue, if higher authority is unwilling to 
> get involved (which, incidentally, I've found isn't the case most 
> of the time if you scream loud enough) is to out-Snape them.
> 
> Snape can off course respond with detentions and taking points, 
> but if Harry continues his attitude of contempt and makes it clear 
> that he will not be cowed, what's Snape going to do?  Throw him 
> out of class?  After the Occlumency debacle I think even 
> Dumbledore will find it impossible to allow that.  Refuse to teach 
> him?  Ditto.
> 
> To get away from morals and practical politics, this would also 
> allow for some hilarious scenes.  Can you imagine Snape working 
> himself into impotent fury, literally shaking with rage as he 
> realizes that nothing he does will break the icy contempt from 
> Potter?  That would be worth more than a few chuckles.


SSSusan:
I think in many situations, Dzeytoun, what you're proposing might be 
worth pursuing.  Given the vehemence with which you've been putting 
it forth, clearly in your opinion it is the only position worth 
pursuing.  I would argue, though, that in Harry's *specific* 
situation, it might not be so.

The future of the WW is truly hanging in the balance.  Harry's own 
life is in the utmost jeopardy.  And yet he should "under no 
circumstances respond to Snape with respect unless the respect has 
been earned"?  I think TOO MUCH is at stake to worry about that so 
much just now.

I actually agree with you that one way Harry could move on is to 
listen & learn while still not being meek about Snape's treatment of 
him.  But if it's not working well, why would it be so awful to just 
swallow some of it and NOT be defiant?  **SO** much is at 
stake...and *we* know there are only 2 years in which Harry can 
prepare...so what is so morally wrong about setting aside the issue 
of being RIGHT, if necessary, in favor of doing what MUST be done to 
save his own life and potentially the entire WW?  

I know you've heard of turning the other cheek.  Please recognize 
that some of us believe that is a *noble* tenet, especially when so 
much besides one's "rightness" is at stake.

Siriusly Snapey Susan