Snape's Purpose (was Re: Harry Potter and Ender's Game

[potioncat]

No: HPFGUIDX 128134


 
> Phoenix:
> I don't think there is much for Harry to learn from Snape except 
how not to live his life. Snape isn't a war hero like Mazer, he's a 
> nearly worthless war criminal who shouldn't be allowed near 
children for any reason.

Potioncat:
I disagree. But first I have to say I know nothing about Ender's 
Game, so I can't compare the two.

Is Snape here to "teach Harry" something? His role may be protector, 
advisor, spy, accuser, teacher...any or all. But JKR has given him 
some purpose if only to be a constant irritant. 

"Snape isn't a war hero...he's a nearly worthless war criminal..."
Well, no  he isn't a war hero. War heroes have performed some act of 
bravery above and beyond what was expected and were recognised for 
it.  So, maybe one day he will be seen as a war hero. Or not.

 But he isn't a war criminal either. After a war the winnning side 
determines if any of the enemy commited crimes, and then accuses and 
punishes. Not every member of the Nazi Forces were charged as 
criminals. Same with the Confederate Forces. It's not clear from the 
books if mere membership with the Death Eaters makes a person a 
criminal. Nor do we know what Snape's participation was before he 
turned to DD. But he didn't simply provide information for leniency. 
He came back when LV was still strong then risked his life (and 
continues to do so) to help DD.


 
> Alla:
> 
> I think we should team up and join the prosecution in Snape's trial 
> on Accio. :-)

Potioncat:
I'd like to see how that turns out! I hope he has a darned good 
defense attorney. He'll need one!

Alla:
The problem, as I see it, is that Snape is either 
> uncapable or unwilling or  both to teach Harry that.
> 
> If nothing else, Snape indeed has a knowledge of Dark Side, which 
> Harry may need to defeat Voldie and Co, IMO.

Potioncat:
Well, to a certain extent, Snape is the best there is. Here's a man 
who is loyal to DD who was once part of LV's organization. He appears 
to be a powerful wizard himself (open to debate, I know) He has some 
rare gifts and inside knowledge. He seems determined to protect 
Harry. He's one heck of a jerk, and a terrible teacher. He appears to 
have taken on this role out of obligation/duty rather than because he 
wants it. Snape seems to be willing to go against his natural 
inclinations for the good of the Order. (At least he tried, I think.)
(Appears to, seems to...very nurse-like charting here.)

Potioncat