Hidden in Plain Sight (was:POA CHAPTER 2 DISCUSSION)

[dzturtleshell]

No: HPFGUIDX 189418

Mike writes: " Snape was becomming less important in Harry's eyes through OotP and HBP. ... "
and "... Snape did take up where Dursley left off. Except the Dursleys didn't become moot until OotP, when Harry no longer paid them any attention"

dzturtleshell responds: I don't know if I agree that Snape took up Vernon Dursley's role once Harry got to Hogwarts. I've always seen Vernon as an oppressor, trying to "squash" out Harry's magic (and accordingly, Harry's individuality and spirit). 

Snape on the other hand provided Harry with some balance. Harry was welcomed to Hogwarts with a barrage of praise and adulation for feats which he had little, if any, conscious control over. Snape was a constant reminder of this. And throughout the series, he pointed out that nothing is black and white, although Harry's parents were fundamentally good, even James Potter & his friends had their own faults, just like Harry and everyone else. Snape kept Harry humble. 
Can you imagine dealing with an adolescent famous for being "The Chosen One"? Yikes - I think I might try to find a way to keep that kid's head out of the clouds, too!

Also, you point out that Snape was less important to Harry throughout OotP and HBP. I agree that this was a great way for JKR to throw us off the trail of Snape's true loyalties and motivations. But I think it is also a sign of Harry's maturation, he's relying less on external perspectives and is learning to trust his own instincts and ideas about himself (for better or worse, understanding yourself is an important part of growing up and readying yourself to do adult things like sacrifice yourself to the world's greatest evil for the sake of the greater good...)

~ dzturtleshell :)