House Elf loyalty was Re: Dumbledore on the Dursleys in OotP (LONG)

[Jennifer Carlson]

No: HPFGUIDX 151510

> Pippin:
> I think the spells that control House Elves produce only the 
illusion of loyalty,
> just as love potions produce only the illusion of love. 


Jen:
I too think that is the key.  Think for example of the slaves in 
American history...most of them would never have dreamed of plotting 
against their masters, because they knew what the consequences would 
be...but there were *some* who were so filled with hate who would 
venture in that direction...that is how I believe Kreacher has 
become.  

House elves are not puppets...they have minds of their own, and 
genuine emotions...wizards can force a *facade* of loyalty but cannot 
make them truly loyal as they are thinking, feeling beings.