Why Snape must ultimately be a hero

[Don L.]

No: HPFGUIDX 152000

I agree that Snape will be a hero, albeit an anti-hero.  
Misunderstood, but part of a larger plan, that in the end, will force 
others, most notably Harry, to accept his part in the defeat of LV.

Consider the LOTR's character Boromir.  He, like Snape is an 
uncomfortable member of fellowship.  He like Snape has a very 
difficult time accepting the reasoning and his part behind the goal 
of destroying the ring (think Lord Voldemort), ultimately leading him 
in the attempt to take the ring himself.  Boromir quickly redeemed 
himself by protecting Pippin and Merry, dying in the process, and was 
loved by the remaining members as a hero, however flawed.  Perhaps 
more importantly, by attempting to take the ring, his action broke 
the fellowship, a significant plot development.  Snape like Boromir 
will play a key part, but unlike Boromir later in the story.  His 
actions will move the story to it climatic sequence of events.

Characters like Boromir and now Snape are important characters in 
plots particularly in the realm of fantasy.  They are always driven 
by some personal flaw, greed, pride, past indiscretions, yet at a key 
point in the plot take on incredible risks, often sacrificing and 
redeeming themselves.

This is the fate of Snape.  IMO, his actions will play a key part in 
the destruction of LV, but his success could only have occurred with 
his perceived part in the death and sacrifice of Dumbledore.  His 
part in Dumbledore's death will add to his conflicted character and 
will drive his actions.  Until the end, Harry and the rest will 
misunderstood and doubt every thing Snape does, almost to their own 
ruin.  Yet in the end Snape's actions and probable sacrifice while 
not decisive, will clear the path for Harry to defeat LV. It may well 
be the final scene where Harry realizes Snape's sacrifice and 
redemption rather than Harry's defeat of LV that most will find the 
most memorable and satisfying of book seven.

"Don L."