| potions_master in nocturne_alley @ 2003-04-01 21:03:00 |
| Current mood: | validated |
| Current music: | antonín dvorák, symphony #9 (aus der neuen welt) |
Anonymous
A truly impressive display of arrogance and implications of I-told-you-so shall be avoided here. Instead, I will give the clean facts, and let you decide for yourselves that I told you so.
1. Potter offers grooming tips. Potter, whose robes are sloppy on their best days, offers grooming tips. This sort of poppycock is obscenely suspicious. Why would Potter spend his time reading Muggle materials?
2. Black mentions that he and Potter have a great deal more in common than he thought. And what, do you suppose, that could be? Plagiarism.
I've got your number this time, Potter, and your ride is running out. You may have bewitched the rest of the school into falling for your shenanigans, but the day has finally come. As soon as I put this information into Dumbledore's hands, I will see to it that you are removed from Hogwarts indefinitely.
Note that the date on this essay is approximately the date it was handed in on. Surely Potter wrote this prior to turning it in. This is a clear point of laziness: it is evident that he was so hasty to scrawl his name on the work of others that he did not realise he would be incriminating himself with the date.
A banal enough beginning, and typical of Potter's style of essays. Note, however, the first sentence. From here the real light begins to shed upon the trouble with Potter.
You will note that Potter rapidly switches topics from Alchemy to Yarrow, a plant that I do not cover in my lessons until seventh year. Potter is a sixth year. After a thorough search I have concluded that his text does not even contain the word 'Yarrow' in it. It is interesting that Potter would write an essay about a topic he has not even learnt.
Yarrow is a plant whose habits are rather variable. Yes, I can see how this sounds exactly like Potter. He is always walking into the dungeons and remarking on how 'variable' Brown's fashion choices are. Why, just the other day, I heard him state that he wished to know the 'obscure origin' of Weasley's heritage.
If Potter knows anything 'as legend has it', I'll eat my hat.
This essay, though muddled, contains clear, concise content. As it happens, the facts themselves seem muddled in a way which would imply they are sentences taken from different sources in a sloppy manner. If memory serves, Black was once in trouble with Professor Yew for lifting a full sentence from The Power of Placenta.
No one is more aware than I that Potter could not write a Potions essay to save his life. Yet, out of the blue, Potter arrives with this: an essay that is both informative and written on a topic he has not learnt. The stench of plagiarism is thick. It is hardly any wonder, then, that so many of Potter's fans are plagiarists themselves. Potter is setting the bar from here on out, and that cannot be. I have already taken this information to the Headmaster, and oddly, I have a feeling he will not be pleased.
Comments:
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 07:08 pm UTC |
This is hardly the time for jokes. Potter is out of here, Lupin. You can count on that.
(parent)| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 08:06 pm UTC |
All right then. Jokes aside, let's look at this logically.
I'm afraid you do nothing to provide concrete evidence of Harry's alleged plagiarism. Where is the original text from which he has copied? Why on earth would you accuse the boy of something like this without having hard proof such as, say, the book he readily admits to owning? Would he volunteer that information to you had he something to hide, knowing that you could - in a professional attempt to discern the truth - simply ask him for the book in question? And considering how well-versed you are in the volumes of text surrounding potions-making, why would any student in their right mind dare attempt to get an unoriginal essay by you, in the first place?
Perhaps the only hobby you need, Severus, is to start reading more mystery novels to see how it's properly done. I've some Hemlock Bones you could borrow. Any time.
- Remus
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:25 pm UTC |
Potter volunteered no information whatsoever. He merely alluded to having information and then created a cock-and-bull story about a Potions text. He will turn nothing in, I am certain.
(parent)| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 08:34 pm UTC |
I don't know, Severus - "I got a book for Christmas" doesn't sound very misleading to me.
You underestimate the boy, but then again, what else is new? Give it a rest, would you, and revel in the fact that perhaps you actually managed to teach the boy something he became interested enough in to want to read outside material on. None of my students have ever done that, save Hermione.
You should be proud, Severus. Not paranoid.
- R.
 missgranger @ 2003-04-01 09:05 pm UTC |
Oh, I'm so glad you've noticed, Professor! Yes, I do think magical creatures are an absolutely wonderful thing to learn about. I suppose I should thank Professor Snape for that; really, it was his essay on werewolves in third year that made me so interested in it all. After all that reading I did, I realised I was completely under-read in the topic! Besides, you're a brilliant professor. You give me so much to think about!
(parent)| scotchtartan @ 2003-04-01 09:14 pm UTC |
Lovely to see you interacting in the journal communities again, Miss Granger. As much as I cannot be more pleased to have hard-working students, it'll do you some good to take a choice break once in a while. 7 points to Gryffindor for taking such academic initiative.
Professor McGonagall.
| missgranger @ 2003-04-01 09:20 pm UTC |
Oh dear. I'm terribly sorry, Professor! I just haven't - well, I suppose I haven't really felt up to sharing my thoughts for everyone lately. I do keep my own private journal, of course, which I feel everyone should do, but I don't know that I could write properly here. I do love this assignment, although it is hard to remember, occasionally; that has nothing to do with the assignment itself, but the attitudes of some of my peers. Oh, I'm sorry, Professor McGonagall! I didn't mean to go into such personal detail!
(parent)| scotchtartan @ 2003-04-01 09:40 pm UTC |
There was no need to apologise, Miss Granger. I can most certainly understand your distress at the recent events. Even though I myself make it a point not to interfere in students disputes, it wasn't terribly easy to turn a blind eye to some. That said, if you do need more than a journal to speak to, my office hours are 12:12 - 14:09 and 19:11 - 21:47 from Mondays to Saturdays.
Professor McGonagall.
| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 09:18 pm UTC |
Ah, yes, I do recall that particular essay. You were the only one to actually complete it - though you will forgive me that I had hoped no one would have at all. You understand. However I am very glad that Professor Snape's efforts were not wasted. Perhaps someday you will consider becoming an expert on magical creatures - with a specialty in werewolves? We could always use a few good minds on the subject.
At any rate, it's wonderful to see you out of the library at last. I daresay Madame Pince told me she was beginning to think of you as a daughter. Or one of the bookshelves!
Cheers, Hermione.
- Prof. Lupin
| missgranger @ 2003-04-01 09:36 pm UTC |
Oh, do you really think so? I've considered it of course, when contemplating careers, but I would never dream I knew nearly enough about magical creatures to become an expert! I'm just interested in so many things, it's hard to pick one!
And oh, the library. . . . Well, I suppose I do like to read quite a bit, yes. It's what makes me feel better, I can't help it! Some days I'd much rather spend an hour in Oz or Narnia or Tintagel than an hour with my own miserable thoughts! I expect that sounds quite terrible, but then we've all had a bad week, I suspect! Except of course for you and Professor Black.
| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 09:51 pm UTC |
Well, you could always become a teacher. It's a profession where it's rather handy to be interested in everything.
I say, have you actually got Muggle books with you? I've gone nearly mad trying to find some, but the only ones we have in the library are enourmously depressing ones about every horrible bit of Muggle history that's ever happened. I suppose that's to reiterate the dubious point that Muggles cannot manage without magic, but I can think of a few things that our world's fallen down on, in that respect. But anyway, I digress - you wouldn't happen to have any Diana Wynne Jones with you, mayhap?
And everyone has their ups and downs, Hermione. Take heart. No one is ever as together as they might like to pretend they are. It's human nature, and it applies to everyone in this school, whether they admit it or not. At least you do, and that is a very good quality to have.
Like Professor McGonagall has already offered, my door is also always open.
- Prof. Lupin
| missgranger @ 2003-04-01 10:09 pm UTC |
Oh, no! I knew I'd made the wrong decision! Yes, I pack Muggle books every year, of course; the library is wonderful, but I do love to escape to these other worlds, too. It's funny--the other worlds I was escaping to before I knew I was a witch were all about magic, and now that I'm in one of them, I still want to go to more places! As I was saying, I pack some each year, but of course there's only so much room with my textbooks, and of course my other books on each subject, so I do have to limit a bit there. I do pack them in softcover to save room, although I prefer hardcover. When I was choosing at home after Christmas, I just couldn't decide between Diana Wynne Jones and Susan Cooper! Of course I couldn't just bring Over Sea, Under Stone, because if I wound up reading one I'd be just crazy without the rest there! Then I thought I should take at least Peter Pan, and then I thought I couldn't be without Laura Ingalls Wilder, and oh, I'm just afraid I don't have any! Perhaps I should write my parents and see if they can try sending it. It's terribly hard--they've tried to get used to owls, but I'm afraid they still don't quite like using them.
(parent)| lupercus @ 2003-04-02 08:48 pm UTC |
Hermione, there is no wrong decision, if it's what you would like to do. You can't spend your life worrying about what you should have done. Just do your best at whatever you decide to do.
I'm delighted that you found some escape in books. I used to do the same, when I was growing up at my grandmother's. She kept a massive library - it's still in use today, should you ever want to have a visit and look around - filled with wizard and Muggle books alike.
Diana Wynne Jones - did you know she was less a Muggle fiction writer and more of a witch historian? Little known fact. Same goes for Tolkien. Though, sadly, their works are both dismissed as fantasy in the Muggle world. I suppose that's fine. Nothing against Muggles, but the less they know about the world the happier they seem to be.
I remember reading Dark Is Rising when I was a boy just starting here at Hogwarts. I was teased for having the books, but wouldn't you know that by my fourth year nearly all of Gryffindor, plus half of Ravenclaw and even a good number of Slytherin, had got lend of them from me at some point or another? Literature - like the heart - knows no houses.
I have a book for you, then, if you'd like it. </i>The Neverending Story</i>, by Michael Ende. I read it so much when I was a child that the back cover's just about gone, and though I could repair it with magic I haven't the heart to. Books should look loved. I believe Madame Pince shares the same sentiment, as the Hogwarts library maintains such a heartwarming shabbiness. Anyway, the book is yours to borrow should you be interested, Hermione.
Call by my office. I'd like to continue this chat, perhaps over tea? Bring Harry if you'd like - if he wasn't able to get his hands on many Muggle books as a child, perhaps it's time we introduced him?
- Prof. Lupin
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 07:06 pm UTC |
Potter. It isn't in your text. You clearly plagiarised those articles for Mr Malfoy, and the thought bestruck you that you could do it again. Where, may I ask, did you learn this, if not from good old-fashioned stealing?
(parent)| just_harry @ 2003-04-01 07:09 pm UTC |
I used a text that wasn't on the reading list but I didn't plagiarise from it!
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 07:10 pm UTC |
And I suppose I am to believe you simply collect Potions volumes for fun?
(parent)| just_harry @ 2003-04-01 07:23 pm UTC |
No! I just had one that had some stuff in it that was on the same subject! I would've thought you'd like us doing extra reading. I wish I hadn't now.
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 07:39 pm UTC |
Ten points from Gryffindor for lying, Potter, which will go nicely with the hundreds your House will lose when Dumbledore investigates this. I find it hardly even suggestable that you carry spare texts on the information I give to you. The only book I have even seen you glance at outside of the classroom is Quidditch Through the Ages, and I dare say it contains no information on Yarrow.
(parent)| just_harry @ 2003-04-01 07:44 pm UTC |
I'm not lying! If you won't listen to me then I'll talk to Professor Dumbledore and he'll make you give those points right back! And I don't normally have extra books but I have this one because someone gave it to me, okay?
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 07:56 pm UTC |
Yes, I am certain that Weasley often hands out Potions tomes to his chums. Don't think I didn't notice your sudden improvement in class after the holidays, either, Potter. You're cheating, and if you think you can fool me into not finding the texts you are lifting from, you are unfortunately mistaken.
(parent)| just_harry @ 2003-04-01 08:01 pm UTC |
Well Ron didn't give me the book. I do have other friends, you know. And I'm doing better since the holidays because I've had the book since the holidays! How can you plagiarise better potions anyway?
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:11 pm UTC |
Don't change the subject, Potter. I expect that book on my desk before breakfast and not a moment later. If I notice a single page conveniently torn out, I may have to pay a visit to your pumpkin juice. I assume I do not need to explain this to you.
(parent)| just_harry @ 2003-04-01 08:18 pm UTC |
I'm taking it to Dumbledore now. He can decide if I copied or not.
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:20 pm UTC |
The Headmaster does not have time to check an entire tome, nor do I trust that he will do so. Give it to me.
(parent)| just_harry @ 2003-04-01 08:24 pm UTC |
I bet he'll find time. I mean, you figured he'd find time to read the essay and everything. I'm taking it to him now.
(parent) knight_to_h3 @ 2003-04-01 08:12 pm UTC |
I didn't give him any Potions books, if you want the ones in my attic, go owl my mum and stop picking on him!
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:18 pm UTC |
While the idea of receiving grease-stained Potions texts is enchanting, somehow, I will have to pass.
(parent)| knight_to_h3 @ 2003-04-01 08:23 pm UTC |
But all your texts are greasy!!!
Harry didn't copy his homework.
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:29 pm UTC |
Your chivalry is noted, Weasley. However, I find myself sceptical that you would know. Do feel free to correct my misassumptions, but wasn't it Potter who was vastly disappointed in you several days ago? Isn't Potter amongst the ranks of those not talking to you? Curious.
(parent)| knight_to_h3 @ 2003-04-01 08:44 pm UTC |
What the- Uh, not to be rude or anything? But, Professor? Don't you have things to do, like you know, teach? Instead of keeping up with who Harry is talking to?? Is that why all the Slytherins are such stal- uh, never mind. Well, anyway! Just because Harry isn't talking to me doesn't mean he's copying his homework from anyone, what kind of logic is that!
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:52 pm UTC |
I merely point out that you would have not the slightest clue as to whether or not Potter has copied. Ten points from Gryffindor for your cheek.
(parent)| knight_to_h3 @ 2003-04-01 09:00 pm UTC |
I KNOW HARRY BETTER THAN YOU EVER WILL AND HE DIDN'T DO IT!!!
(parent)| jadedsirius @ 2003-04-01 07:38 pm UTC |
Honestly, Snape, your vindictiveness has reached new heights. Are you so miserable in yourself that you must fabricate things to make others unhappy?
You accused me of plagiarism, and it was never proven. You were just making it up because you were upset that I got higher marks than you in everything but Potions. Grow up, Snape.
Remus is right. You do need a hobby.
~Sirius
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 07:59 pm UTC |
The proof is all there in Potter's abominable handwriting. I need not lie when the truth is on my side, Black. I was under the impression that you were one who relished truth, but alas, as it has always been, you still deny the truth when it comes to your own affiliates looking sullied.
(parent)| jadedsirius @ 2003-04-01 08:04 pm UTC |
What proof is this? Have you checked this Potions text that Harry used? Have you seen with your own beady eyes that he has copied from it?
You're reaching, Snape. Clearly you've sniffed too many of your own vile brews.
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:06 pm UTC |
POTTER DOES NOT DO WELL IN POTIONS OF HIS OWN ACCORD.
(parent)| jadedsirius @ 2003-04-01 08:09 pm UTC |
Ah, we're reduced to shouting now that I've exposed you for the paranoiac that you are? Really, Snape. Show me more proof than your bitter suppositions.
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:15 pm UTC |
At the very least, I do not choose photos of myself that make me look like Jesus Christ. Putting a new spin on your self-martyrdom, are we? Shall I prepare your crown of thorns?
(parent)| jadedsirius @ 2003-04-01 08:18 pm UTC |
And now, the predicted lowering to personal attacks. I cannot be blamed if I photograph better than you.
(parent)| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:22 pm UTC |
Lowering? I believe your attacks were personal from the start. Some days, Black, it makes perfect sense that your own Judas Iscariot went to He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.
(parent)| jadedsirius @ 2003-04-01 08:55 pm UTC |
My attacks were not personal other than questioning your objectivity, which everyone knows is a moot point anyway. I did not see fit to comment on the unattractiveness of your icon.
(parent)| scotchtartan @ 2003-04-01 08:38 pm UTC |
Now, Severus, that is hardly fair. Mister Potter is putting an effort in producing a satisfactory essay for your class, is that not something worthy of praise? I trust that you realise there is no truth in Mister Potter's handwriting and I expect more from you than this silly public accusation of a student, Severus. Should you wish to know the truth, surely there are better and far more adult ways of obtaining it.
Sincerely,
M. McGonagall.
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:47 pm UTC |
Good evening, Minerva. I feel it relevant to posit this, then, if you are so certain of your Potter: why is it that Potter has not disputed the fact that he plagiarised Muggle magazines?
- Severus.
| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 08:52 pm UTC |
Good lord, Severus. The boy was a Muggle up until six years ago, and a glorified house-elf at the hands of his relations. I'd think that more than qualifies him to know a bit about laundry to not have to go looking it all up.
Origami. Definitely origami.
I can tell, you're a man with an urge to fold cranes.
You just don't know it yet.
- Remus
| potions_master @ 2003-04-01 08:55 pm UTC |
Also you can use a laundry product containing enzymes for at least 30 minutes (several hours for aged stains.) Do not use hot water as it will coagulate protein and make stain more difficult to remove. If stains remain, soak an additional 30 minutes. Follow product instructions. Some laundry detergents contain enzymes. After soaking, launder in warm water as usual.
Algae Stains To remove algae stains, treat stained area with a toothpaste that claims it will whiten your teeth. You can use this on your clothing or your sneakers. Allow to set for a few minutes before washing
These are clearly a set of instructions copied and pasted. If you wish to turn a blind eye, of course, I cannot stop you. It would not be the first time you laxed in your duties as an authority figure.
| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 09:05 pm UTC |
All right, take your point. However, I hardly count quoting something in passing to another student as plagiarism, Severus. It's simple information, and he only wanted to be precise about it, for the sake of clarity. That's hardly a crime.
Trust is more valuable to the teacher than fear, Severus. It's time you learnt that.
Come, now. You know you want to.
- R.
| jadedsirius @ 2003-04-01 09:16 pm UTC |
Oh, pull the broomstick out of your arse, Snape. That wasn't for an assignment so it hardly counts.
(parent)| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 09:20 pm UTC |
Sirius, do try to be civil.
Or at least stop sniggering every time you comment. I can hear you all the way in the other room.
- Remus
| jadedsirius @ 2003-04-01 09:33 pm UTC |
Well, you do have to admit this is all quite amusing. And Snape always did have a stick up his arse.
(parent)| lupercus @ 2003-04-01 09:37 pm UTC |
You're not helping, Sirius. Do you think Harry's laughing?
- R.
| scotchtartan @ 2003-04-01 08:57 pm UTC |
Evening. I assume you are referring to Mister Potter's thoughtful laundry advice to Draco Malfoy? In that case, will it be safe for me to assume that you've never re-told a story or a piece of information you've read from other printed media or will that be an unreasonable assumption? Stop and take 14 minutes to think about your accusation for Harry and perhaps you might start to see the absurdity of it all.
- M. McGonagall.
