[HPforGrownups] Re: CHAPTER DISCUSSION: PS/SS 4, The Keeper of the Keys

[Sherry Gomes]

No: HPFGUIDX 187856

 Alorkin:
> Why was Hagrid sent to collect Harry, instead of someone who actually knew
what they were doing? Aren't there contact specialists? Hermione said
Professor McGonagall came to her house personally.

Potioncat:
I don't know why DD sent Hagrid, probably for the same reason he sent him to
retrieve Baby Harry. But I'm with McGonagall, "Hagrid! Do you think that's
wise?"



Sherry now:
I've been thinking a lot about this, and even more with your excellent
summation of all the times Hagrid takes or carries Harry somewhere.  I think
Hagrid was the perfect choice, and here's why.

Hagrid with all his other faults is absolutely loyal, loyal to DD in the
beginning but also loyal to Harry.  I think that, like Sirius later, Hagrid
would die to protect those he loves.  

Hagrid also has a child-like nature, simple and guileless.  I think this
would be easier for a boy with Harry's history to accept, easier than a
stern Minerva, for instance.  In spite of his size, he can make Harry feel
safe and relaxed.  He can share the wonder of the new world to which he is
introducing Harry.  He lets Harry express himself and his insecurities in
ways I don't think Harry could have done to someone more typically adult
behaving.  In fact, does Harry ever open up to any other adult as he does to
Hagrid, except maybe Sirius occasionally?  Hagrid tells Harry things about
his parents, that to me, are things an 11-year-old boy, starved for
information would want and need to hear.  It wasn't the time for Harry to
hear the negatives about his parents.  

For me, Hagrid, with his simple but honest and kind ways, was the absolute
right person to get Harry and introduce him to his new life.  It's hard for
me to explain any better than I have.  I feel what I mean but can't find the
words.  I just think any other Hogwarts person would have been too formal
and adult acting for Harry to be free to react.  Hagrid was Harry's first
friend, and they remain friends and loyal to each other from then on.

Sherry