Echoes of Machiavelli and the Godfather in Snape

[inkling108]

No: HPFGUIDX 138477

Cheryl wrote:

> Wow!  When I read members' theories about Snape being out for 
> himself, my reaction was "that would be very Machiavellian"!, but 
> somehow I didn't make this connection between the Prince and the 
> Half-Blood Prince.  I think you've made a new convert to the TW!
> Snape theory.  Thanks for the essay citation...very convincing:)
> 
> One argument against this is that Snape has just gone on teaching at 
> Hogwarts for the entire time LV was gone...do you think that during 
> this time he was counting on LV's return and plotting to make his 
> move when LV returned, then have Harry finish LV off, leaving 
> himself as "Top Wizard"?

My guess -- only a guess -- is that he was hedging his bets, and 
allying himself with the winning side, which for a time did indeed 
seem like Dumbledore's side.  When Voldemort came back, I think he did 
a recalculation and shifted allegiance.  Whatever the case, if he is a 
true Machiavellian and a true self-preserving Slytherin, he will do 
whatever furthers his own cause and preserves his own well being.  But 
it's a dangerous game he's been playing, and he risks being rejected 
by both sides now -- by the Order for obvious reasons, and by 
Voldemort for screwing up his plans to use Draco's "assignment" to 
punish and humiliate the Malfoys.  Going back to the Godfather 
analogy, Mob bosses (which in the end is what Voldy is, when you strip 
away the magical glamour) tend to frown on their lieutenant's taking 
matters into their own hands.

I'm not saying Snape has no conscience at all, but I don't think that 
his conscience has been strong enough to overcome his deep bitterness 
and will to power.  Not yet anyway.  I'm hoping that it will in Book 
Seven.  I'd hate to think he's a wholly lost cause.

Inkling