Intimacy: The Woes of Mrs. Weasley (Book 5, Chapter 9)
Oct 5, 2023
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Topics discussed include meal sharing as a catalyst for closeness, Harry's unwanted intimacy with Lucius Malfoy, and the entitlement of close friends. The hosts explore the tradeoffs, strengths, and limitations of intimate relationships.
Intimacy in friendships involves trust, entitlement, and preserving happiness.
Meals and hospitality can build intimacy by fostering relationships and creating a sense of home.
Deep dives
The Position of Prefect: Should Ron be Selected?
Ron's selection as a prefect is questioned based on the criteria of past merit and future promise. While Ron may not exhibit the same academic excellence and strong sense of justice as Hermione, his selection could be seen as strategic for building Dumbledore's army. However, considering past merit, there may be other Gryffindor students, like Neville, who have demonstrated more leadership potential and who would be better suited for the role.
The Intimacy of Friendship and Entitlement
The episode highlights the importance of intimacy in friendships, particularly the trust and entitlement that come with close bonds. Ron's entitlement to borrow Hedwig and the consideration of not flaunting her prefect status in front of Harry showcase the deep connection among friends. However, the limitations of intimacy are also explored, as Harry hides his disappointment about not becoming a prefect to preserve his friends' happiness. The need for multiple friendships and the benefits of community are emphasized to balance and support different needs and emotions.
Negotiating Intimacy: The Sphinx's Riddle
The Sphinx's riddle in the Triwizard Tournament is examined as an act of spite against the system that confines her to a predetermined role. Despite expectations, the Sphinx offers an easy riddle and even gives Harry a warning before he faces the subsequent deadly challenge. This showcases how spite can be directed towards oppressive systems and highlights the potential for subversion and empathy in unexpected ways.
Building Intimacy through Meals and Hospitality
The role of meals and hospitality in building intimacy is explored, particularly through Molly Weasley's role as a host. By preparing meals and inviting others into her home, Molly fosters relationships and creates a sense of home and care. The significance of sharing meals and breaking bread as a way to establish trust and connection is emphasized, highlighting the power of small gestures and acts of generosity in building intimacy.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Intimacy in Chapter Nine of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix! They discuss meal sharing as a catalyst for closeness, Harry's unwanted intimacy with Lucius Malfoy, and the entitlement of close friends! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what are the tradeoffs, strengths, and limitations of intimate relationships?
Thank you to Russell for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 10, Luna Lovegood, through the theme of Beauty with special guest Jolie Doggett!
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