Two questions about Snape

[iris_ft]

No: HPFGUIDX 144987

Hi all, 


Forgive me if the following topics have been debated previously; 
I've been a long time without lurking around.

Here are two questions concerning Snape.

1)In PS/SS, during his first class (chapter 8), he talks about "the 
delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching 
the mind, ensnaring the senses
"

Question: If we take "sense" as "the ability to make good judgements 
or to behave sensibly", can we consider that in these lines, Snape 
is telling us he can manipulate people's judgements with his 
potions? Is it the reason why Dumbledore trusts him so much? Did 
Snape invent a potion with the power to make Dumbledore trust him 
whatever happens?

2)A question concerning Snape's first name, now. Of 
course, "Severus" is the Latin word for "stern", and if we consider 
Snape's behaviour, particularly as a teacher, we can say this first 
name sounds like a portrait. But couldn't we find another meaning, 
especially if we parallel "Severus" with the English verb "to sever" 
(= to cut completely)? There could be a parallel with 
the "Sectumsempra" spell, or with the "separating function" Snape 
fulfils several times in the series. A few examples: because he 
repeated the prophecy to Voldemort, he initiated the process that 
would separate Harry from his parents; Harry blames him also for 
Sirius's death; he is he who kills Dumbledore. Harry can consider 
him as responsible for the loss of the people he loves. 

Well, there's probably nothing new in what I wrote. But I'd like to 
read your opinion, or if it bothers you, to be given a few links to 
previous on topic posts. Thanks,

Amicalement, 

Iris