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sevdonic · 11 months ago

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Hi it's me again sorry to spam your inbox. I had PoA in the background while working and it just hit me: how was Remus immediately so good at teaching? As far as we know, he never was a teacher before. He worked little odd jobs to survive that he barely kept for a few months. Yet, he starts at Hogwarts and immediately his first lesson is a success. The students love him so much to the point they still talk about him books later, actively defend him (in front of Snape and Umbridge), to the point that Hermione, who figured out he was a werewolf, decided to trust him and defended him as well.

How did this happen? It also didn't seem like Remus wanted to teach so much, it even sounded like he was coerced into it by Dumbledore who tracked him down. Yet, he came prepared, with his neat little suitcase he carefully repaired and sewed together, he even stamped "Professor R.J Lupin" on it (ACTUALLY CANON OMG). He even received praise from Madam Pomfrey "So we've finally got a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher who knows his remedies?". He was PREPARED. He gave hands on lessons (there is a whole paragraph in the beginning of Chapter 8 describing how good his lessons are), a fun practical exam, he always deflected conflicts (regarding Malfoy's snarky remarks and rage baits), he immediately spots Neville as anxious and puts him forward in the first class to give him a little confidence boost (literally the first professor to ever praise Neville), he had a subtle but funny humour (I'm referring to the time Harry had tea in his office "I've only got teabags, I'm afraid -- but I daresay you've had enough of tea leaves?"). The CUTEST THING is him giving Harry a set of very nice, useful books for Christmas in OotP along with Sirius. Like, how thoughtful???

We often refer to him as "grey" but to me he seems more polarized. Like he is ALL or NOTHING. Fatherly yet cold, caring yet distant, supportive yet absent. Tbh sometimes I just wanna grab his shoulders and give him a shake. How does one spot a student like Neville so easily, boosts him up, and then just goes and does exactly what Neville is doing (cowarding away, throwing self-confidence out the window).

He makes me so mad. I love him so much. Sorry I didn't mean for this to turn into such a rant (expect another msg on Remus' interactions with Severus in a near future).

no this isn't spam this is delicious yum yum yum I've thought for awhile that I wanna go through Remus and Severus' teaching methods. I'm reading POA right now, a chapter a night or so to my boyfriend (He was 'a bit too old' for HP when it came out, so he's enjoying it now) So I'm paying attention lol

Whether Remus didn't want to teach and Albus had to beg him - or teaching did appeal to him but he thought as a werewolf it would just never be a possibility... he really took to it, didn't he? His suitcase AAHHHH how can one man be SO FUCKING CUTE

I think it's down to being a good mix of skills for him:

He manipulates people to like him. He makes himself pleasant, helpful, positive, charming... that's a good quality for a teacher! To be able to control a whole class of kids takes some sort of manipulation - and Remus is already practiced. He is good at reading people, who they are and what they need... His best quality as a teacher is the fact he can connect to his students emotionally - a rare quality for Hogswarts staff.

That and he just seems to like the kids. He is a bit of a kid himself at heart - while also enjoying being a mentor. Being nurturing. Impressing them. Learning all their names. Showing off his skills. Helping them. Making class fun and engaging. A practical as their first lesson: where he shows them they are capable of handling even their worst fears...

DADA is a good subject for him - he is a strong spellcaster (can cast a patronus effortlessly), Was a spy amongst dark creatures and Death Eaters in the first war - and has a father that specialized in the field. Lyall studied boggarts, poltergeists and dementors - what does Remus do on his very first few days...? Scare off a dementor, show off against a poltergeist - and teach the kids how to deal with a boggart. Just like his own dad. Probably where he knows the chocolate remedy from too, imo Also was the dementor there for him because it could sense he was a werewolf?

Snape mentions later that Lupin lacks organization, is 'hardly over-taxing' the class teaching them first year stuff - that the class is very behind. He might be exaggerating because he hates Lupin (though why say anything at all...?) - but Snape is a good teacher. Not perfect, but despite demanding a high bar for his NEWTs classes they are always well populated. He is good at his job. If he says Lupin is disorganized, behind and focusing on the easy stuff, I believe him at least partially. Maybe his standards are just too high, made worse by hating Lupin and being desperate in the one class he might have with the third years to get them warned about werewolves.

But if those are Lupin's only failings in his first year...? Lupin's a natural at teaching. He is just a bit behind and disorganized - when he spends multiple days a month disabled. And he excels at the area Snape struggles most in: Being able to alter how he teaches to support struggling students. Considering the fact the classes last two teachers were a very distracted Quirrell (underrated character) and an incompetent Lockheart - teaching first year stuff and going easy is probably the best option. He has assessed the level of the class and matched it.

Calling Lupin all-or-nothing is... pretty apt, really. I often think of him as lukewarm, but you're right: It's not that he mingles around half-doing things. he does shit 100% or he is gone. Teacher, 'mentor', Order member, spy, partner... all either done brilliantly - or he is someone Albus needs to track down.

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sevdonic · 11 months ago

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— Nitya Prakash

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sevdonic · 1 year ago

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can you imagine if severus had lived and went on teaching at hogwarts? everyone would think he was the COOLEST TEACHER EVER.

helped save the wizarding world by defying voldemort. dark and mysterious past so any number of rumours could arise. known tendency to do good deeds and not tell anyone, providing scope for the evillest rumours to have some 'greater/secretly good' twist aspect. supposedly brutal death, survived. got the scars to prove it broody, distant personality and will never discuss anything but the work with students, no matter how much they ask.

this is fertile ground for school rumours, the most fertile you've ever seen. when i was in school there was a physics teacher who (rumour had it) used to be a guard at a diamond mine in south africa, and he supposedly had a bullet wound scar - and ignoring the ethics of that for a moment - the girls adored him and thought he was the hottest teacher ever, the guys thought he was so cool, and not a one of us gave a shit about physics

the snape rumours change every day. there's five variations on each one. there's snape lore in the school that you have to brush up on as a first-year. the kids are DESPERATE to get a scathing snape burn in class. when he's cruel and demeaning, the kids' faces LIGHT UP and he's furious that that doesn't work any more so most of the time he gives the class the silent treatment

harry's shouted out everywhere that Sev did it all for Lily, and so the girls and single mums (and some not single mums) think he's the god of romance. suddenly sev finds himself the new Lockhart, and he LOATHES IT

he receives firewhiskey and care packages from thankful parents for the first few years, so much that he has to start re-gifting them in the staffroom, and he even gains a little bit of weight from all the chocolate cauldrons. he stops attending breakfast for the first few weeks, because all the owls with letters of thanks were disruptive

he asks one time in class if anyone had any questions about the cure for boils and EVERY hand goes up. he pauses, surveying the class. "are there any questions about the potion" he says, and every hand goes down - but one.

"did you ever use this potion defeat Voldemort"

he considers resigning in that moment, but at least hogwarts keeps him away from his #1 enemy - media attention. kids are easier to keep in line than journalists. unfortunately the other teachers think all of this is hilarious, and give him a daily run-down of their favourites in the staffroom

eventually Sev starts putting out his own far-fetched rumours via staged, easily overheard conversations near students with minerva - just to be a little shit about it.

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sevdonic · 1 year ago

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rip severus snape, you would’ve loved therapy

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sevdonic · 1 year ago

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sevdonic · 1 year ago

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Ok but what are some ways Lupin would be a good partner (yknow when he’s not being passive aggressive or leaving at the first sign of conflict)?

Remus Romantic Partner pt2: Remus is good Link to pt1: Remus is needy Link to pt3: Shipping, I guess (not done)

Ok, so part 1 made him sound pretty bad. Because he is. Cope. But he isn't a useless pit of toxicity that demands people work hard for the privilege of tapping his ass

He just thinks poorly of himself. He can't imagine a scenario where he is enough for someone - so he doesn't bother looking for anyone. But he cares deeply about people.

Deep enough that he would rather hurt people by leaving than risk injuring by staying. He is a good man that thinks he is a monster. He pretends to be good, without understanding that he is good... without realizing that pretending is what's making him bad. Perhaps he does realize, and he doesn't know how to stop. He doesn't know what else to do.

In Short: Remus Lupin offers WISE SUPPORT. 1. Empathetic; Understanding; Comforting. 2. Helpful; Thoughtful; Doting 3. Affectionate - but not Clingy. 4. Prepared and Careful. 5. Socially skilled; Aware and sharp. 6. Adventurous. Makes everything FUN. 7. Nurturing; Attentive - Great with kids

In Long:

1. Empathetic; Understanding; Comforting. ~He's an Empath~ He grew up watching his parents struggle to care for him, but put on a brave face to keep him unaware. That gave him the toxic habit of doing the same - and helped to develop his ability to read people.

It is hard to lie to him. It is hard to hide feelings from him. But you don't need to - because he understands others better than himself. He has experienced much in his short life. Grief, pain and mental struggles especially. He knows well that sometimes things are impossible, that help doesn't exist. He is well versed in it.

You don't need to be the epitome of mental health to handle him, just because his mental health is garbage. You just need to be stable enough to be a rock in his river. He can calm down anxieties, talk you out of a panic attack, comfort any depression, walk through any grief... maybe he isn't as sturdy as a rock, but he is the comfiest, warmest, coziest blanket. He can't be trapped he can drop everything to support someone. The idea of Tonks' pregnancy, of fatherhood, was too much for him. It was going to trap him in a world where he wasn't going to be good enough and everything would be horrible all the time - so it would hurt everyone less if he left. But he wouldn't have left her due to grief at her fathers death. He has lost people before, and something like grief isn't trapping. It's something he can help soothe.

Remus is good for people who have struggles of their own. He is overflowing with his own experiences of loss, struggle and chronic illness - and has a thirst to help and be soothing.

Moreover, he is a Compassionate Hypocrite: Anything similar to himself he is kind, forgiving and accepting of in others... even if he loathes it in himself. Even lycanthropy, going to sit with the lonely werewolf at the hospital... he isn't even angry with Greyback for biting him.

He can forgive any illness, any weakness, any trepidation, any poor coping strategies, any cowardice... And maybe he shouldn't sometimes. The more the relates, the more supportive he is - because that's what he yearns for... and feels he doesn't deserve. ((like dumbledore.)) Run away from the world when the pressure is too heavy? Yeah. He gets that. No friends because you always keep emotional masks on? He is lonely, too. You can mask off together. Depressive spirals where you can't eat or bathe? He doesn't think that's shameful. He knows how to cope. Chronically ill? Fatigue, pain, nausea, mood swings? Ha.

2. Helpful; Thoughtful; Doting Thrives on looking after people. It's his favourite activity. (I HC he spent alot of time as a child at home caring for his mother as she got sick with stress raising him, and some of his best memories are making her laugh, cuddling with her at her worst - and dancing with her at her best.) When you, or anyone, gets sick - he is an angel. He knows every remedy to ease pain, quell nausea, induce sleep... or just dotes.

He enjoyed being a teacher (Professor is a title he adored wearing) but he would also be happy as something like a house husband: Cleaning, shopping, handiwork, cooking meals, loving his partner when they get home from work - doing things in his study when he has free time... one form of an ideal lifestyle for him. He likes a role of minor leadership, like being in-charge of a classroom or a house. His own space to own and rule. A territory.

He enjoys chores! Simple active/magical tasks that distract his thoughts - that he can't do when he feels sick, so he relishes them when he is well. He keeps himself busy being 'useful'. He likes clean and tidy. He packs things to be space efficient. He can accept a little chaos, however - he isn't neat-freak. He is great to have around if you're busy, or are often out, or just struggle doing things like tidying up. He loves the dopamine hit of a clean kitchen, of sorted laundry - of doing something right.

I've talked about him being soft and domestic, but I do want to note: A physical safe place to transform + comfortable places to rest ARE important to him... but the true stability he needs isn't being inside a house - It's having a partner that will always accept him, even when he fucks up.

3. Affectionate – but not Clingy Intimacy, like sex, might be a challenge for him (1500 words) but he loves being close, cuddling - always touching, patting, holding... Leaning on each-other, laying on your lap, having you lay between his legs as he lays on the couch, reading a book and stroking your hair...

Sleeping together most of the month is sleeping in a tightly coiled bundle, for better or for worse. Before the Full Moon he is grumpy and woken easily - so he sleeps elsewhere. (or you sleep elsewhere and give him the bed. He needs it.) Post-Full Moon, when he is exhausted and sore: He'd appreciate it if you held him all day. Please.

He doesn't even mind PDA... after a hurdle: For a time he won't want anyone knowing he is in a relationship – and even when they DO know, for awhile he wants to hide the nature of it. Barely even holding hands or standing next to you. But once the hurdle is passed (and he has been told half a million times that you're cute together) his affection comes through. Holding hands, wrapping his arm around your shoulder, sitting right next to you, kissing your forehead or cheek or even lips. This is because his goal has changed: At first he was convincing himself he could leave at any time. Then he is convincing himself he will stay forever. Both hopeful lies.

But if you need a couple of weeks to focus on your thesis? If you need to go away for a month for work? That's alright.

As long as you don't disappear without a word (like he does) he can't bring himself to be that much of a hypocrite that he can't handle time with you away. Even if he gets a little lonely. It even pleases the part of his brain that whispers to him to run away, that tells him its for the best that he is alone, that they secretly hate him and wont come back... ...but you do. And he knew you would, but it's still nice. He might be needy with all his issues, but he isn't clingy. (that's Sirius)

4. Prepared and careful. His anxiety can suck - but it has served him well when it comes to preparing for what he see's as 'eventualities'. His pockets have just about everything that might be needed. He knows more day-to-day useful spells than he can count. Always has sweets and teabags on him. Walking tea party? More like a walking snack These habits have served him well, being homeless.

He is the 'I packed an extra drink bottle and blanket just in case' sort, but not in a ridiculous way. He knows not to over-pack. (Get him to plan a holiday. Taking control AND feeling helpful? yippee.)

His Achilles heel, however, is planning for the things that scare him. His Full Moons, for example: he will procrastinate sorting out his safe space, taking care of himself, drinking his potion (if he can get one)... If that can be taken care of on his behalf... he will be moved to tears.

5. Socially skilled; Aware and sharp. He can read a room instantly - just as well as he can read individuals. He might not be good at confrontations, but if he see's you in one it gives him a little bravery to fight. Though its hardly a battle of wits or fists. He isn't Arthur Weasley fighting for Hermione's parents' honor, nor is he Sirius saying the exact words that cut deepest. But that can be a good thing: he never wants to make a scene. He takes over and tries to keep the situation mild and passive. He steers conversation defensively. He doesn't make enemies. He can take command of a room or a conversation. He can be stern or gentle, manipulating others into staying calm and reasonable. He is good at recognizing manipulation. He studies Dumbledore's methods - and often speaks just like him. He can see it, recognize it - and call it out, disarm it - protect you from it.

If you struggle at talking? He can do it for you. He can talk to anyone pleasantly - or make an excuse for you to leave. He is as much a social butterfly or a wallflower as is needed. If you need any social help or management – a temper, impulsivity, chronic shyness or social anxiety – he is attentive to your needs.

6. Adventurous. Makes everything FUN. He has never grown out looking under rocks for cool bugs... to scoop water out the creek for tadpoles... to mess with gnomes... He looks back on every night with the Marauders fondly, even though they were not the best idea. As cozy as staying in a house is, he has lived a life on his feet - scrounging around spooky places to find boggarts for quick cash...

When it comes to activities or missions: he is fearless. He has weathered the streets and the forest, knowing HE is the scariest thing in them, both as a talented wizard and as a werewolf. He has confidence in his instinct and skills. He will climb trees, explore tunnels – meet with a murderer.

Camping has lost its appeal, being homeless for so long... but camping with a goal? To go see something cool? An abandoned factory, or an old castle ruin? A graveyard at night?

But small things can be fun, too. He MAKES them fun. Trying out a new tea is an event. Staying up late to chat when you should sleep? Riveting adventure. If you're sick in bed he is not beyond making a pillow fort around you, to make laying down a little more exciting.

7. Nurturing; Attentive; Great with kids Mainly a re-tread of other points, but I do think he is destined to be a father. He learns the names of everyone in his class before he meets them. He learns what they like, how best they learn, how he can support them, what their fears are and how to soothe them... Kids love him. He listens, he plays, he is sympathetic to their powerlessness and can allow a little naughtiness just as well as he can step up and take command. At the end of the day he is not exhausted by them but fulfilled. He loves being a teacher - because he is nurturing. He would struggle to be a single father, he needs support – his mental health will go to shit and he will need to get away... but he is a wolf that is tied to his pups. Any partner that also wants children, that already has children – or can offer him the opportunity of being the 'cool uncle'... perfect.

He is a good teacher. Good emotional support for adults AND kids. If you are scared, if you need help - he can guide. He's made for it.

Types of people I think benefit from having him around:

People who are stable and independent, but may also: + Need emotional support. + Struggle in social situations. + Struggle at planning and/or completing tasks. + Who have chronic illness, mental of physical People who plan to have kids/already have kids - or work with kids. People with an active lifestyle they can include him in. People who yearn for, or at least accept, physical affection - even if intimacy is often difficult. People who need distance sometimes. People who find themselves needing to be looked after frequently - injuries, illness, depression etc. People who just need a bit of soft sunshine in their lives. A touch of someone a little eccentric, funny and caring.

(I wanna talk about specific people, like Tonks, but in a third post)

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