Dark Magic WAS: Re:help with JKR quote/ Children's reactions

[Mike]

No: HPFGUIDX 176700

> zeldaricdeau:
> 
> You may not count this information as valuable for discussion since 
> it comes from her interviews, but what does this definition then 
> say about what was done to Marietta who retains permanent scarring 
> from the effects of the pimple-producing spell? 
> 
> <snip JKR quote>
> 
> Should we assume it's ok because she deserved it? Or perhaps 
> because it only left a "few" scars? Where do we draw the line?

Mike:
I did answer the question about Hermione's jinxed DA roster. I said 
it was dark magic, just not Dark Magic. I also clarified that not all 
spells that have long term effects are Dark as a spell that has no 
long term effects can still be called Dark. IOW, there is no single 
litmus test. Crucio is Dark, yet it's effects could be over almost 
instaneously.

Obviously "deserving it" has nothing to do with what is Dark Magic. 
So, I suppose you'd like to know whether this makes Hermione a "Dark 
Witch"? I also suppose I'll let you answer that one for yourself, as 
my opinion is simply that, my opinion. FWIW, my answer is no.

As to where we draw the line, I guess that's really two questions. 
Personally, my line is defined by "I know it when I see it". And it 
is not defined by who casts the spell. Canon's line? The $64K 
question on this list, aint it? But I'd venture to say that Harry 
casting Crucio, and canon depicting Crucio as Dark Magic proves to me 
that canon doesn't define it by who cast the spell either.

Now, do ya wanna ask me if Harry is a "Dark Wizard"? LOL

Mike