Snape as having been loved.

[lealess]

No: HPFGUIDX 136471

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "nrenka" <nrenka at y...>
> SNIP 
> Pity and compassion, both interpersonal qualities: something that 
one 
> has for another, in other words.  In Rowling's world, they seem to 
be 
> essential components of love, that mysterious thing that forms the 
> bonds between people and creates connections.
> 
SNIP 
> To be capable of joining the DEs and carrying out what they do is 
to 
> be capable of repudiating the humanity of others, and thus 
offending 
> against someone who once recognized you as human, yourself.
> 
SNIP 
> Is Rowling saying that Snape should have known better?  In a sense--
> yes, yes she is.  I think she's framing it as a conscious decision 
on 
> his part to have gone against a fundamental human principle.
> 
> -Nora notes that this one will be interesting to see play out

lealess:

Thank you for your very thoughtful reply.  I can see where empathy is 
part of love.  But I do not believe it is enough on its own.  I 
wonder if Snape ever learned to trust anyone?  With all the love in 
the world, if he does not trust it (due to abusive family background 
or bullying or friends turning their back on him or employer-employee 
relationship), love will do absolutely no good, really.

lealess