(Untitled)

[boss_slugg]

When: 31st August, 2017
Time: Mid-Afternoon
Place: Hogwarts Great Hall
Who: All staff

Comments

[prof_trevelyan]

Aurelius nodded as Slughorn spoke, although his expression betrayed no emotion on the subject. "I suppose that a statue of some description would be the traditional form of memorial. It does, however, seem a little trite. Perhaps something more practical might be in order? An addition to the library, or maybe a new scholarship?" He made a short gesture in Slughorn's direction. "As you said, Horace, it ought to be something to celebrate freedom, to look to the future." He looked amongst the pther teachers. "As for the ceremony, my experience in these matters is I feel a little esoteric. I think that is a decision better left to those who were present."

[boss_slugg]

"An excellent suggestion, Aurelius. The board's first thought was a statue, something along the lines of the Fountain of Magical Fellowship, but you've certainly raised a good point."

"Ceremony-wise, elements borrowed from Muggle Rememberance Day woul probably be appropriate; however, it doesn't have the forward-looking aspect. You're the anthropologist; any tribal inspirations you can offer? We're not looking for Day of the Dead street-parties, but something uplifting would, I feel, be suited to our theme. Rememberance of lives, rather than mourning of deaths; There were too many years which had very little to celebrate"

[prof_trevelyan]

"I think, Horace..." Aurelius drawled "That it would be remiss of us to ignore the educational potential of such a ceremony. Celebration of those who lived and died facing down Voldemort should of course be central." Aurelius took a sip of coffee. "However, the context is also important. We must ensure that these children, who have lived in relative peace and security, understand how and why Voldemort became what he was, and why others stood aainst him. Thus I think that the ceremony would be best served with a focus on telling the story of the events. And the story of those who have lived on since."

[boss_slugg]

Slughorn nodded "Perhaps a stage-presentation of some sort, then? Interspersed with short talks from those who survived? Perhaps spread over the course of several days"

He turned to address the assembled staff.

"Additionally, if it's not too much of a deviation from your curricula, I think the inclusion of relevant material into this year's teaching programs would be a good idea."

[profweasley]

Bill grimaced a little. "I'm not certain a proper remembrance of the Battle of Hogwarts should be an 'uplifting' one. It was won at such a cost. A memorial for those who fell fighting the Dark Lord, though, would be good. A reminder."

[boss_slugg]

"Bill, I would never seek to denigrate the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in the battle. But surely, it befits their memory to remember them as the heroes they were? We can still be respectful to them, without becoming maudlin about it."

Sorry I took so long to notice this post

[prof_longbottom]

Neville sat silently, vivid memories of the Battle of Hogwarts running through his mind, until there was a lull in the conversation.

"I think I agree that we should try to make this a optimistic memorial. Maybe we could make a point of celebrating the good things that happened because of Voldemort's defeat, rather than focusing on the Battle itself, I don't know. 'Course, we should still mention the people who died in battle," he added. "Maybe if there could be an uplifting statue, but have it say 'In memory of...' and list everybody."

Re: Sorry I took so long to notice this post

[prof_trevelyan]

Aurelius glanced between Bill and Neville. "A thorny problem, is it not, to find a middle ground in so emotionally charged a situation?" He wiped his hands delicately on a napkin. "I am uncertain as to what would be an appropriate compromise, I am afraid. We shall have to come to one, though."