The Mirror of Erised isn't Dead

[such_things]

I have been trying to com up with ways and reasons for Dumbledore to place such vehement and unwavering trust in Severus Snape. Even though Dumbledore and Rowling herself have said he has made several mistakes, it would be very hard for me to believe he would keep an ex Death Eater so close and so into his plans without having very concrete proof

Comments

[l_amiral]

Dumbledore could have used Legilimency, and if Snape wanted to prove he reformed he wouldn't use Occlumency against that.

[jdezredel]

Veritaserum

[nights_mistress]

However, Rowling says that it's possible to overcome veritaserum, if you're determined to do it.

[jane85]

Yes, and I'm sure that Snape (being the superb Legilimens and Occlumens that he is) would easily be able to overcome veritaserum.

[tunxeh]

Ok, so if Dumbledore could have used legilimency or veritaserum, what would be the point of adding the further complication of the Mirror of Erised? Just use legilimency or veritaserum, no mirror required.

I think it's likely that mirrors and that mirror in particular will figure in HP7. But as an alibi for Snape? No.

[lunadeath02]

How exactly did DD know what Harry saw in the mirror? I know there are ways, but I'm sure it could be the same way he knew about Snape's.