Muggles v wizards redux/Pretty Pansy (was: liking Snape)

[a_svirn]

No: HPFGUIDX 183281

> > Pippin:
> >  The larger  point is that using people as metaphors is
> > dehumanizing, period. A metaphor is like a patronus -- it's a
> > projection with no feelings of its own. It may carry a message, 
it 
> may
> > be used to frighten or inspire, but it's just a tool.
> 
> Magpie:
> So you're suggesting that JKR's point is that her own use of people 
> as metaphors is dehumanizing? 

a_svirn:
I really really don't see it. For one thing metaphors are not 
dehumanising in themselves. Sure enough, sometimes metaphors are 
deliberately used in a "dehumanising" way. Say, when Bassanio likens 
Portia fair tresses with Golden Fleece it does rather indicate that 
he sees her mostly as a source of revenue. But when the Bard compares 
his object of desire with a summer day it is hardly dehumanising, 
now, is it?

Another thing, I don't agree that patroni are merely projections 
without feeling. On the contrary, feelings are essential in producing 
a patronus. The stronger one's feeling, the stronger one's patronus. 
Snape's patronus is an expression of his lifelong devotion to Lilly. 
Tonks's patronus is a manifestation of her love for Lupin. Harry with 
his unique capacity for love produced a patronus that drove away 
hundreds of dementors. It was because of the strength of his 
feelings, not his magical skills or powers he managed the feat. 
a_svirn