[HPforGrownups] Snape the alleged vampire

[shane dunphy]

No: HPFGUIDX 47273

This has been an interesting thread, but I think that the premise that Snape 
is a member of the undead is inherently flawed.
David wrote:
>First some thematic stuff. Whatever he may be magibiologically, Snape is 
>not a *thematic* vampire. He doesn't drain anyone of anything. You only 
>have to think of the Dementors (metaphorical vampires) or Voldemort (both 
>literal, via Quirrell and the rebirthing potion, and metaphorical) to see 
>the difference.
I have to agree.  Snape is not a character that seems in any way attracted 
to "sucking the essence" from anyone.  While vampires are attracted to life 
and those obviously full of it, Snape seems to be more attracted to the 
anaemic Malfoy.

Another thought is, if Snape were a blood-sucker, wouldn't he be attempting 
to place himself in positions in the school where he may have potential 
access to blood - volunteering for Madame Pomfrey springs to mind ;-)...or 
maybe getting more involved in Quidditch, as a coach or ref would be another 
activity that would offer ample opportunities.
It also occurred to me thinking about this issue, vamps are usually 
described as being beautiful, erotic, magnetic individuals, full of desire 
and longing.  Snape seems to be if anything repressed and could hardly be 
described as being a sexually attractive individual (well, maybe in a Goth 
kind of way...).
In the canon, Snape's diet is never really mentioned, other than that he 
appears at meal-times and  feasts.  Now, another aspect of vampire lore is 
that they tend not to indulge in mortal food-stuffs.  If Snape wasn't 
eating, wouldn't someone notice?  I imagine that Dumbledore would be deeply 
concerned if a member of his teaching faculty were appearing to be anorexic, 
and would probably organise an intervention.

Shane.