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The Neville and the sword was meant to show that Neville was a try Gryffindore. I think there has always been that thought that he wasnt very brave/skillful and didnt meet the standards. But as with Harry in the CoS...when Neville showed his true loyalty and that he was in fact as brave as the hat predicted.



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I think it may also have been meant to show his leadershipish qualities. As it was supposedly him or Harry who would defeat Voldermort according to the prophecy, and as dumbledore talked about how it had to be someone who would exhibit true courage/leadership unlike how he handled his search for power. I think it may have just in a manner shown how they are supposed to be so similar and like either could of accomplished the job.