Assessing characters,:spin-off of psychological analysis

[Jeanette]

No: HPFGUIDX 127687


   I have been following with great interest and enjoyment the 
threads pondering the psychological traits of Umbridge, Snape etc.  
I can't really add much to the discussion as my background is 
history/classics but I can contribute one thought.

   After 50 odd years of life, my rule of thumb in judging mental 
health or lack of it is quite simple.  Does the person in queston 
have a friend?  Is that person capable of having a friend?

  In the case of Umbridge I would say no.  She is certainly capable 
of being fixated on someone (ie Fudge) but I cannot see her being 
able to sustain a free, equal, friendly relationship. She either 
grovels,sneers or attempts to control.

  Snape I can see with a friend. It would have to be with someone 
Snape would truely respect on a mental and professional level. It 
would be mostly unspoken but I think quite deep. I don't know if he 
would be comfortable having a friend.  I don't think being liked is 
something he would deal with easily.

   Draco Malfoy is only shown with followers whom he despises.  I 
can see him forming alliances of convenience but like his father he 
would never open up enough to have a true friend.

   Tom Riddle/Voldemort.  Snort, giggle.  No I don't think so even 
in his youngest days.

Jeanette