Why Snape is so interesting

[Randy]

No: HPFGUIDX 153786

Some people discount the symbols in these books.  Others see the 
symbols in the light of their religious beliefs which are very 
strongly held.  Others note the literary device that symbols are 
used to connote hidden meanings to the unsuspecting reader.

Mythology is filled with creatures that have symbolic meaning.  The 
phoenix, gryffin, snake, lion, and raven are all tied to mythology.
To discount the possible hidden meaning behind the use of these 
symbols by JKR is a bit presumptuous.  Symbols speak to the 
subconscious mind.  

I understand why the discussion of these symbols leads to heated 
debate.  Perhaps the need to win the argument should be abandonned 
and replaced by a polite discussion of alternatives.  The image of 
two warriors fighting throughout eternity comes to mind when I read 
some of these posts.

I think the reason Snape is so interesting to the readers is due to 
his hidden motives.  We see the good side and the bad side.  He is 
described in images of bats, spiders, and dragons as someone else 
posted earlier.  I find it interesting that he is described by these 
images, and he is the focus of so many debates about his evil or 
goodness.

Bats, spiders and dragons are sometimes represented as evil in 
mythology.  Other times these creatures are represented as givers of 
life, knowledge, and protection.  The study of these symbols in 
mythology leaves you in a quandary about the hidden meaning as it 
applies to Snape.

How ingenious!  Snape is perhaps the most important character in 
this series, and his actions determine the final outcome in book 
seven (my opinion based on his importance in book six).  JKR has 
used symbolic imagery to describe him which is ambiguous.  Eastern 
religions value Dragons are protectors who are benevolent.  Western 
religions see Dragons as evil adversaries who must be destroyed to 
save the day. American Indian mythology sees the spider as the giver 
of life and knowledge to man.  Some gothic stories have painted 
spiders as evil.  Bats are also seen as both good and evil by 
different groups.  Check the internet and you will see this is true.

I am convinced that Snape has been given ambiguous symbolic meaning 
on purpose.  You may disagree, but I think she understands how to 
use symbols and imagery to affect our subconscious mind as well as 
our conscious mind.  We somehow know something is not quite right 
about some character, but we can't put our finger on it.  That is 
the subconscious mind picking up the clues before the conscious mind 
sees the clues.

Randy

who wishes to see others interpretations of the symbols rather than 
get into a violent argument about who is correct. ;0)