[HPforGrownups] Re: Snape as father figure

[Kathryn Jones]

No: HPFGUIDX 130958

Amanda Geist wrote:
> What IS the world coming to, I'm combining responses.

> The whole point is, the children in the equation don't necessarily see that.
> And we are seeing the relationship entirely through the child's eyes in this
> case. The motivating factor for the adult is almost immaterial, for to a
> child's perspective, all that matters or holds weight is the child's
> reasoning and the child's perception--which are not mature enough to have
> moved out of "victim" mode.

> And I submit that Snape wants Harry to be disciplined until he can grow to
> discipline himself. And Harry has shown Snape precious little evidence that
> he can. Nothing you have said so far is inapplicable to Snape; in fact, it's
> a really good summary of what I think Snape is trying to do.

> I argue that Snape exhibits objectivity towards Harry -- as an example,
> during the Occlumency lessons--especially after Harry "breaks into" Snape's
> thoughts and sees some of Snape's memories. Harry, typical for his
> perception, braces for a very personal response and instead meets a very
> professional one. An objective one.

> ~Amanda, premier Snapologist

    Kathy writes:

        I think that Amanda has some very interesting points, as do the 
other posters.  I can see where Snape never has to actually like or 
understand Harry.  In fact, Harry never has to understand or like Snape. 
  What I think will happen is that Harry will remember that Snape was 
the one teacher who taught him "expelliarmus", Snape has demonstrated 
that he is quite capable in defensive magic, and that Snape was the only 
one to honestly answer his questions about Volemort's affect on his 
mind.  Harry knows that Snape attempted to save him from Quirrel and to 
protect him from Umbridge.  Harry also knows that Snape for whatever 
reason, protected him from the Minister by claiming that he was 
"confunded".  Harry knows that Dumbledore has his best interests at 
heart, but this has screwed him up.  He was not trusted with knowledge 
and Sirius was killed because of it.  Harry is not yet ready to blame 
Dumbledore instead of Snape for Sirius's death because it would mean 
that the only person he can trust is the one person who he hates and who 
hates him.  I think Harry will be forced to choose a male adult that he 
can trust above all others who is capable of doing what Harry believes 
needs to be done to stop Voldemort.  Dumbledore will be unwilling to 
risk Harry, Lupin would not have the authority or back-bone to risk 
Harry.  He would waver.  I believe that Snape would, if the plan was 
feasible, if the odds were good, and if the outcome would protect the 
WW, risk Harry and act as his protector. Snape will probably be the one 
that Harry goes to for assistance.
KJ