There is a difference between being a meanie and being a child abuser.

[Bruce Alan Wilson]

No: HPFGUIDX 144394


Lupinlore:
"But even if that is what Dumbledore meant, it's totally irrelevant.  
Snape's damaged?  Join the club.  As Pippin points out, lots of 
people in the Wizarding World are damaged.  Boo hoo.  Poor 'ickle 
thirty-eight year old Severus.  It in no way excuses his abuse of 
Harry and Neville, nor does it in any way release him from 
punishment for said abuse.  Any more than any damage Tom Riddle 
might have experienced in any way releases him from his ultimate 
fate."

When did Snape abuse either Harry or Nevelle?  I don't recall him doing so.  He
has been harsh, strict, sarcastic, mean, belittling and unfair--but never
abusive.  I've seen real abuse, and Snape doesn't even come close.  I've seen
cases of caregivers and teachers treating young people in their charge in ways
that make Snape seem downright cuddly.  Calling Snape 'abusive' is an insult to
the children who have survived things that would give you--and have given me--
nightmares.  

Bruce




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