Is Snape good or evil?

[justcarol67]

No: HPFGUIDX 149586

Alla wrote:
> 
> Well, since Dumbledore was NOT wearing a peaceful expression, I feel 
> safe enough to say that there is no meaning behind it. :)
>
Carol responds:
Actually, I think you mean that the phrase "peaceful expression" was
used to describe the sleeping portrait, not the dead Dumbledore, whose
expression is not described. However, since he looks like he's asleep
and Harry sees the "wise old face," evidently looking much like its
usual self except that the eyes are closed since he feels neither
revulsion nor horror, we can't rule out the possibility of a peaceful
expression matching that of the portrait. It would fit with the
touching moment you describe, in any case. And the open-eyed,
surprised expression often associated with AK victims is markedly
absent. So I don't think it's safe to conclude anything of the sort.
Those of us who think the differences may be significant are as
justified as those who see them as accidental or meaningless. :-)

Carol, who thinks the *portrait's* peaceful expression is significant
in itself

(Sorry--fourth post of the day, but it's a short one!)