Harry's hatred of Snape

[lupinlore]

No: HPFGUIDX 153838

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "kateydidnt2002" 
<kateydidnt2002 at ...> wrote:
>
> If this has been address already specifically I apologize and 
would 
> ask if anyone would be so kind as to point me in the right 
direction. 
> 
> One of the things that bugged me most in *Half-Blood Prince* is 
the 
> conversation with Lupin around Christmas ( I believe that was when 
it 
> was) where in Lupin says something to the effect of "You're 
> determined to hate Snape and you inherited it from your father." 
> (Sorry my book is not with me at the moment.)
> 
> WHAT?!?!
>

Actually, I believe Lupin's line was something like "You are 
determined to hate him Harry.  And I understand.  As James' son, as 
Sirius'godson, you have inherited an old prejudice."

Now, I don't think that means that Harry has literally inherited 
James' hatred of Snape.  Rather, he has inherited the effects of all 
the bad blood in the Marauders' years, effects that manifest in 
Snape's attitude to Harry. That is, the "old prejudice" Harry has 
inherited is Snape's prejudice against all things even remotely 
connected with James and/or Sirius.  This naturally leads Harry to 
hate Snape.  Rather like a family feud passed down through 
generations.

In other words, I think Lupin is trying to say something like:

"You are determined to hate him, Harry.  And I understand.  As 
James' son, as Sirius' godson, you have inherited the results of 
what happened back then.  He is bitter and hateful to you.  You are 
naturally bitter and hateful toward him."  

Unfortunately one of Lupin's many faults is showing here -- i.e. his 
desire to be peaceful and reasonable, diplomatic if you will, leads 
him to beat the bushes and circle the problem rather than being 
clear.


Lupinlore