[HPforGrownups] More emotional baggage for Snape

[Richelle Votaw]

No: HPFGUIDX 41425

Amy Z writes:

> So if Dumbledore tells Snape this, then Snape owes his
> life not only to that insufferable so-and-so James,
> but now to Harry himself.

> interesting:  he's starting to see Harry as his own
> person (and someone to admire and reckon with), though
> that realization comes under a cloud of anger at his
> new indebtedness.

This is interesting--it would mean not only is Snape reminded of James and
his life debt there, but also a new life debt to Harry.  First, every time
Snape looked at Harry he saw James.  He was then reminded of James and his
friends, all of which were so hated by Snape himself.  Then he's reminded of
the way James held his life in the palm of his hand and decided to save it
instead of toss it aside.  And I can't help but think that Snape may even
wonder what he'd have done if he'd been in that position.  Would he have
made the same choice James did?  Or let his enemy die?

Second, if Snape now has a life debt to Harry as well, he sees Harry for
himself when he looks at him, not just James.  He sees the young boy who has
already saved his life and several others.  And he's only 14.  Would/could
Snape have done something like that when he was 14?  Doubtful.  Seeing Harry
may also remind Snape of his own past and all the mistakes he's made.

If all of those memories are rushing through Snape's mind every time he
looks at Harry, it's no wonder he treats him as he does!  Not that I approve
of it, but I think I am starting to understand Snape a little better.

Richelle