[HPforGrownups] Re: Why did Snape remove *that* memory? Was:Taking memories out of your head?

[Sherry Gomes]

No: HPFGUIDX 164139

Va32h here:
Snape's bad memories are there to plant the seedlings of sympathy for Snape,
just as the trips in the Pensieve in HBP are there to plant sympathy for Tom
Riddle. 


Sherry now:

Hmmm, if the pensieve trips were there to plant sympathy for Riddle, I don't
know about Harry, but it didn't work for me.  I have no sympathy for Riddle
or Snape, come to think of it.  Many people have bad childhoods, are
rejected by family, grow up in orphanages and don't turn into psychopathic
monsters.  Or just plain old garden variety murderers of best
friends/mentors.



Va32h 
Harry needs to learn that his parents were not perfect, he's been idealizing
them for so long. And he's been demonizing Snape. Harry needs to realize
that neither of those viewpoints is entirely accurate. 



Sherry now:

I'm always puzzled by the idea that Harry, who has never really known his
parents, needs to learn not to idolize them.  Why?  Why shouldn't he keep
his view of them?  This is in a general sense I am asking the question, not
rejecting the obvious plot device, because it's unchangeable.  But what is
good about making a kid, during a terrible year in his life no less, learn
that his parents weren't all he thought?  His view of his parents had
actually helped him through some things.  Why remove another source of pride
and strength from the poor kid?

Sherry