[HPforGrownups] Bigotry or NOT? Re: CHAPDISC:HBP19,Elf Tails

[Kathryn Jones]

No: HPFGUIDX 157563

Magpie wrote:

> Magpie:
> I think I snipped it because it wasn't relevent.  I know that "Squib" is 
> used as a straight, descriptive term.  I wasn't claiming that it was a slur 
> in itself.  I thought I made it clear that it was the way Hagrid was 
> described as pulling it out in this context, to put Filch in his place, that 
> sounded very much like the reason to bring out a slur.  Just as if Filch had 
> said to Hagrid, "Why should I care what you say, you giant!" that would 
> suggest the same thing even though "giant" in itself is just what some 
> people are.

   KJ writes: (waving a white hanky)

     I think that it is interesting to note that in spite of the fact 
that Filch might call himself a squib, the argument would not have 
escalated if he did not understand that Hagrid had meant the term to be 
derogatory. As Harry and Hermione left the scene, Filch and Hagrid 
raised their voices considerably, drawing Peeves to participate.  Hagrid 
could have called him a sneaking janitor, or a sneaking night watchman, 
but he chose to call Filch a "sneakin' Squib." The fact that the 
argument became worse, might indicate that Hagrid meant to be insulting, 
and that Filch recognized it as such.

   KJ  Not sure if this is likely to be accepted as canon either. :-)