bobthewriter
I have a theory about Lockhart (this theory has no basis or credence, I admit!) that in fact the original villain of the second year was supposed to be Lockhart (according to a plan by an evil and manipulative Dumbledore) to educate Harry by putting someone completely envious but with great influence against Harry's popularity, so it not only destroys any of Harry's vanity but also teaches him to fight and resist people with great influence in the population who can use public opinion against others (that is, instead of the second book being called "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" should have been called "Harry Potter and the Mind Thief!") but Lucius Malfoy "ruined" Dumbledore's plans! Thanks for the chapter!
In this case Dumbledore is stunting the growth of hundreds of young witches and wizards (1-4 years). yes it will expose Lockhart but it is doing a lot of damage as well, if lockhart got fired half way through his first semester it would look even worse for him and then the students can get a competent teacher, maybe have an auror come and teach the class DADA.