Character "rescues" (was Re: What cultural standards ...)

[Miles]

No: HPFGUIDX 144725

lupinlore wrote:
> Snape, in my opinion and that of others, clearly
> IS a child abuser, over and out.

Miles:
This is your very private opinion.
But - several people pointed out, that there is not very much canon or
scholastic evidence for the claim, that Snape is a "child abuser".

Just to recall it:
- obviously, the standards of child abuse in the wizarding world are far
away from any standards of our world
- if we would use common definitions of child abuse from our world, these
definitions state that there has to be damage, psychical or physical, as a
result of child abuse. We can see that kind of damage with Dudley, but
neither with Harry or Neville or any other student that is abused by Snape
according to your opinion
- if we speak of indices of child abuse and try to find it in the reactions
of Hogwarts students, we only find abuse in the detentions of Umbridge, but
no evidence for any abuse in Snape's lessons or detentions

Certainly, you can use your private definition of child abuse. But it is
very difficult to take it as a basis for a discussion about karmical
punishment.
I suggested some ten days ago to find a definition we all could use in order
to have a basis for discussions concerning Snape - child abuser or not. But
up to now, the supporters of the "he is a abuser" fraction couldn't come up
with a uncommitted definition (or with any).

Yes, Snape is a unsavoury person, especially concerning certain students in
his classes. But to demand punishment for nastiness - I wouldn't go so far.

Miles