In Defense of Snape (long)

[pippin_999]

No: HPFGUIDX 122382



> 
> SSSusan:
> As a former teacher myself, I know about challenges.  But I 
believe  you go too far when you say "the *only* reason."  How do 
you know  this?  Neville does screw up -- he's klutzy in other 
places, too,  and McGonagall is livid with him when he leaves the 
passwords out, yes.  But ask yourself whether Neville has ANY 
chance of relaxing or  feeling confident in his abilities -- 
something he seems to question  by nature -- with the way 
Snape treats him?  <

> 
> As Alla asked:
> > Don't you find it ironic, that Neville progressed in Harry's 
DADA club more during a few months than in Snape class 
during five  years.<<

Pippin:
Trouble is, Neville had Lupin for DADA, just as Harry did, so 
whatever made the difference for Neville in the DA, it wasn't 
finally having a competent, non-scary teacher.  Also, if I am not 
mistaken, Neville *has* made progress in potions class. IIRC, 
no cauldrons were injured in the making of OOP <g>. Not one.

Could it be that in subjects where he isn't naturally motivated, 
Neville actually needs to be scared to try his best? That Snape's 
methods actually did break through that thick skull of his? Not 
PC, I know, but I'm just wondering.

>From what you are saying, it seems more important that a 
teacher pass on an appreciation of the subject than actual 
competence. But if you needed an operation, which surgeon 
would you rather have, the one who just loves surgery, or the one 
with the higher than average success rate?

Pippin