Sorting and House System

[Milz]

No: HPFGUIDX 173061

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "sneeboy2" <sneeboy2 at ...> wrote:
>
> 
> Sneeboy2 replies:
> 
>  Snape's backstory shows that the sorting system played a key role in
> ending his friendship with Lily, and thus his becoming a DE; if this
> is JKR's subtle condemnation of the system, I think it's too subtle
> for most readers, especially the younger ones.
>


I think Snape and Neville are examples of "living up to expectations" 
(or stereotypes). If you tell a child he is worthless, stupid, etc. 
that child might "live up" to those expectations in life. Likewise, if 
you tell a child he is smart, good, etc., that child might "live up" to 
those expectations.

In the case of Snape, he lived up to the expectation of being "bad"---
becoming a DE, rejecting his Muggle-born friend, etc. It was only when 
Snape realized that being "bad" wasn't all it was cracked up to be did 
he turn his life around. He was fortunate, because in real-life, some 
people don't manage to "break the cycle"...ever.

As for Neville, being sorted to Gryffindor boosted his self-confidence. 

So the Sorting System would be beneficial---IF (and this is a big IF), 
the qualities/characteristics of the House are positive. From what the 
epilogue states, I fear Slytherin's reputation has remained 
unchanged "19 years later". :-(

Milz