Draco and Slytherin House (was: Harsh Morality - Combined answers)

[pippin_999]

No: HPFGUIDX 121291



> Nora:
> 
> Draco's function in the series so far is to be an antagonist, but 
> more importantly, to be a poster child for what the child of a DE 
> thinks like.
> 
> Alla:
> 
> Yes, yes, but I always a bit sad when a character's only function 
is  to be a plot device.

Pippin:
He may be a bit more than that eventually. Just for a moment, 
separate what Snape is asking Harry to do from his 
pedagogically incorrect methods of getting Harry to do it. 

Snape wants Harry to study hard, mind his own business, pay 
attention in class, deal respectfully with his teachers and 
classmates, stop thinking that  wealth, popularity or his family 
name entitles him to anything, and leave the Voldemort war to 
the grown-ups. As we all know, Harry doesn't need to be 
pressured to do most of these things, and would rather receive 
guidance from the Giant Squid than Severus Snape anyway.

But there is another child in Snape's classes who desperately 
needs guidance in these areas. Whatever potential for good 
rests in Draco seems to be draining away unregarded. That's 
tragic, particularly as Snape seems to be the one adult who 
might be able to reach him in time.

Pippin