When asked before The Tales of Beedle the Bard were published what I was looking forward to the most, my immediate answer was “Dumbledore’s commentary on ‘The Tale of Three Brothers.” I am delighted to say this part met my very high expectations for it. [Far and away the best online discussion I have read on the subject is at The Hog’s Head Tavern and I urge you to read the exchanges there if you haven’t already.]
Dumbledore in his notes on ‘The Three Brothers’ and the gifts Death gives each is simultaneously deceitful and revealing. To those without any clue about the existence of the Hallows and unworthy of learning about them, the notes must seem the usual historical survey that any literary dilettante might write. This is deceitful, because, as we know, the Hallows do exist and Dumbledore knows they exist, is in possession of one, and is aware of who holds another.
Why would he choose to be deceptive here? Perhaps, as Aberforth would certainly volunteer, it is because deception and secrets are second nature to Albus. I think he has other concerns. [Read more…]
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