The Debate Over Severus Snape

It's been almost three years since the release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. There is still controversy lingering, especially about Severus Snape. Snape might just the the biggest divider among Harry Potter fans. It's clear to some that Snape played a vital role in the series as a Order of the Phoenix member, protector of Harry, and spy. Other fans still hate Snape and can not look past his Death Eater days.

About Professor Snape
He was an only child and lived in an abusive household. His one childhood friend was a muggleborn witch, Lily Evans. Once arriving at Hogwarts they were sorted into different Houses. During a vicious round of tormenting from James Potter and Sirius Black, Severus lashed out at Lily and called her "mudblood." Unable to forgive Severus, Lily ended their long friendship.

Upon leaving Hogwarts he joined Lord Voldemort as a Death Eater. While Snape was a Death Eater, he overheard part of the prophecy regarding Voldemort and a soon to be born baby who would have the power to defeat him. He realized Lily and her family were being targeted. Snape went to Dumbledore and pleaded for their safety. Snape unknowingly set in motion the deaths of Harry's parents. After Snape learned that Harry still lived, he promised Dumbledore he would protect him.

Snape was an important part of the Order of the Phoenix, even after the Wizarding World shunned him for killing Dumbledore. His role was much deeper then spy. He was one of Harry's greatest protectors and the only person to ever successfully fool Voldemort. Snape became Headmaster on Voldemort's orders. Being Headmaster allowed Snape to communicate with Dumbledore's portrait and still secretly help Harry and his friends. While Snape was dying during the Battle of Hogwarts, Harry found him. Snape was able to pass his memories and vital information about defeating Voldemort to Harry. Up until his last breath, Snape was able to make sure Voldemort would be killed once and for all.

Why the Debate over Snape?
Some fans can not get over Snape joining the Death Eaters. When Snape joined he was a young man, fresh out of school. It was a mistake and his years of loyalty to Dumbledore prove that he changed. As a teenager, Severus was an outcast, a lost soul trying to fit in. Looking for acceptance, he picked the wrong crowd. Why should a man in his 30's still be judged by the mistakes of his teen years? Especially when he worked tirelessly with Dumbledore and the Order to stop Voldemort.

Some fans think Snape only worked for the Order out of an obsession for Lily Evans Potter, not love or friendship. Now, if you unknowing played a part in your friend's death, wouldn't you want to protect and help the family (Harry) that still lives? I believe he still loved Lily (his only real childhood friend) and felt deep remorse. Snape wanted to take down Voldemort for the betterment of the Wizarding World, not because he was "obsessed" with Harry's mom. Severus lead a life as a double spy, sacrificing his own safety and happiness. This isn't selfish or obsessive. It is the mark of a truly brave man. Since Harry names his second born son after Severus, it's clear to me he agrees.

Some fans see him as just a big meanie. Apparently, a lack of social skills and not outwardly showing warm, fuzzy feelings negates all the good that Snape did. Who hasn't had a strict or "mean" teacher? During his time as Potions Master, he knew Voldemort would come back one day. Snape also knew he would have to spy on Voldemort when he returned. I feel he needed to play "nice" with the Death Eater children he taught so his cover wouldn't be blown.

These are just a few reasons why Snape is a disliked character by some. I believe he is the most human, complex, and interesting character J.K. Rowling ever created. He wasn't always a static "good" or "bad" guy. His story kept readers guessing and thinking. Some fans can not look past his flaws and accept that he played a vital role in Voldemort's downfall. Many other Snape fans understand he was only human. A human who loved, lost, and made terrible mistakes. He was also a human who was remorseful and fought hard to fix the err of his ways.

Sources:

Personal Experience

Snape Thread on CoS Forums