Most of those points were already brought up and ignored. Everyone at the “trial” came in knowing exactly which way to vote, and Harry doesn’t have time to alter their individual opinions. Its pretty clear that if Hermione had never come into contact with Harry, but still wound up in the same situation (inexplicably) things would be very different. Although I do like how you’re idea calls back the opening to the chapter. Also, Harry just talking makes for kinda poor drama. Where getting close to the climax of this section and I’d be pretty surprised if it ended with Harry getting to know the members of the Wizengamot, but i could be wrong.
Judging by Fudge and Umbridge’s demeanor, the voters might put more weight on the words of the Boy Who Lived than on those of Dumbledore, especially as Dumbledore wasn’t phrasing his arguments in such a way as to appeal to the parts of the audience who didn’t already support him.
I agree with your point about it making a poor climax though. I think it’s quite unlikely for this reason, but still like the idea of Harry suddenly gaining super-lawyer powers :).
Most of those points were already brought up and ignored. Everyone at the “trial” came in knowing exactly which way to vote, and Harry doesn’t have time to alter their individual opinions. Its pretty clear that if Hermione had never come into contact with Harry, but still wound up in the same situation (inexplicably) things would be very different. Although I do like how you’re idea calls back the opening to the chapter. Also, Harry just talking makes for kinda poor drama. Where getting close to the climax of this section and I’d be pretty surprised if it ended with Harry getting to know the members of the Wizengamot, but i could be wrong.
Judging by Fudge and Umbridge’s demeanor, the voters might put more weight on the words of the Boy Who Lived than on those of Dumbledore, especially as Dumbledore wasn’t phrasing his arguments in such a way as to appeal to the parts of the audience who didn’t already support him.
I agree with your point about it making a poor climax though. I think it’s quite unlikely for this reason, but still like the idea of Harry suddenly gaining super-lawyer powers :).