help with JKR quote/ Children's reactions

[Geoff Bannister]

No: HPFGUIDX 176635

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "houyhnhnm102" <celizwh at ...> wrote:
 
> houyhnhnm:
> 
> It was pointed out long ago that the Map addressed Snape 
> by his title and the Marauders had no way of knowing that 
> Snape would become a Hogwarts professor.
> 
> On Harry's first foray into Hogsmeade via the tunnel, he 
> didn't know the incantation to open the statue of the 
> hump-backed witch and the Map supplied it to him.  
> >>The tiniest bubble had appeared next to his figure.  
> The word inside said, "/Dissendium/."<<
> 
> I take that as evidence that the Map thinks for itself. 
> I can imagine that it revealed the secret of its activation 
> to Fred and George in a similar manner, recognizing them 
> as kindred spirits.

Geoff:
I suggested a couple of days ago that the Map might be 
something like a SatNav system which is pre-programmed 
to respone in certain ways to requests.

If you recall, Snape triggers a response on his third attempt:
'"Let me see, let me see..." he muttered, taking out his wand 
and smoothing the map out on his desk. "Reveal your secret!" 
he said, touching the wand to the parchment.

Nothing happened. Harry clenched his hands to stop them 
shaking.

"Show yourself!" Snape said, tapping the map sharply.

It stayed blank. Harry was taking deep, calming breaths.

"Professor Severus Snape, master of this school,  commands 
you to yield the information you conceal!" Sanpe said, hitting 
the map with his wand.'
(POA "Snape's Grudge" p.211 UK edition)

Once Snape reveals his name,- and title - the map reacts and 
it picks up the fact that he is 'Professor' Snape. And the fact 
that ihe doesn't use the 'standard' opening, i.e. 'I solemnly 
swear that I am up to no good' triggers the friendly message 
to intruders! 

A bit like trying to get into a friend's computer without the 
right password perhaps....