Snape's mom-domestic abuse

[zgirnius]

No: HPFGUIDX 159942

pcotu:
> I just joined, so forgive me if this has already been asked.
> 
> I think in this last book, Harry sees Snape's memories.  He sees
> Snape's muggle father abusing his witch mother.  I thought this was a
> major flaw, for no witch would put up with this.

zgirnius:
The story of Merope Gaunt Riddle is potentially relevant here, I 
believe. The abuse she suffered at the hands of her father and brother 
affected her ability to do magic, as did her anguish at being rejected 
by her Muggle husband. So a possible explanation is that Eileen was 
worn down by psychological abuse and was not able to defend herself 
with magic.