Why did Scabbers hate Goyle (was: Why did Crookshanks 'hate' Scabbers

[tinglinger]

No: HPFGUIDX 126671


eggplant9998
In the first book, Scabbers AKA Peter Pettigrew AKA Wormtail,
heroically defends Ron and Harry by biting Goyle on the finger.
In light of what we learn about this particular rat in later
books this act of nobility seems somewhat out of character.
Why did he do it? 


There are several possible explanations that I can see - 
1 - As Sirius said in POA, Pettigrew always aligned with the
stronger side. Although in this particular fight,
Malfy/Goyle/Crabbe are physically stronger, they are on the
wrong side of the WW in the big picture.. 
2 - Pettigrew did not want to blow his cover as Ron's pet
where he could hear all sorts of interesting info, especially
with Harry Potter around,  and
3 - Peter was living at the Weasley residence since Percy
got him, and was privy to all sorts of info coming out of the Ministry
(a great home for rats, it seems), giving further
reason not to blow his cover. 


Tinglinger
who has recently created a yahoo group for theories
and plotlines for the Harry Potter series which you
are welcome to check out at

http:://groups.yahoo.com/group/potterplots