The Unloved Son (was Re: Could I be wrong about Snape being evil?)

[Joe Goodwin]

No: HPFGUIDX 156711


wynnleaf <fairwynn at hotmail.com> wrote:
wynnleaf
I wouldn't be surprised if Snape was jealous of the degree to which DD
lets Harry get away with things. And certainly a person with a
particularly low self image might listen to DD's praise of Harry and
hear only that, but perhaps not accept as real any compliments and
positive statements DD would make toward him (about Snape, that is). 
Certainly it's possible that Snape is very jealous of Harry in a sort
of sibling rivalry sort of way. But since DD really spends very
little actual time with Harry, compared to what must certainly be a
good deal more time with Snape, it seems doubtful that that kind of
jealousy would be at such overpowering heights as to be the primary
fuel for Snape's hatred of Harry. 

Joe:
  Unless beyond all the other reasons Snape is simply a jerk as well.
   
  Yes, yes I know it is more fun to try and come up with complex reasons why Snape is or isn't a good guy.
   
  Still we need to consider that Snape could just be a great big jerk who never left behind a childhood rivalry, period. He doesn't have to be guilt ridden and angst filled nor does he have to be Snidely Whiplash evil.
   
  I don't think we can break down every word written about any character and think it must all have some hidden meaning. Surely some of JKR's words are just meant to convey the upfront intent.
   
   Do we know Snape has a low self image?
   
  Do we know he is sorry about James and Lilly?
   
  Really we know almost nothing about Snape and while it is fun to guess lets all just admit there isn't really any evidence.
   
  The closest we have to evidence is that Dumbledore thinks he is sorry. He also thought Mad Eye Moody was teaching DADA in fourth year too.
   
  Discussing Snape is a bit like discussing religion. Its all based on belief.
   
  Joe