Understanding Snape’s Complex Relationship With Lily Potter

One of the most complex and contentious characters in the Harry Potter books is Severus Snape. He served for both Albus Dumbledore and Lord Voldemort as the Hogwarts potions master, leading a double life. His enduring affection for Harry Potter’s mother, Lily Potter, served as the foundation for his strong devotion to Dumbledore. Fans have been debating Snape’s relationship with Lily, who was known as Lily Evans when she was younger. While some claim that Snape’s severe treatment of students cannot be justified, others argue that his love for Lily redeems his dubious deeds.

Snape first became aware of Lily’s magical skills while they were growing up together in Spinners End. Despite Lily’s sister Petunia’s objections, he took her to the Wizarding World. During their early years, their friendship started to exhibit symptoms of strain, especially after Snape unintentionally hurt Petunia with a spell. When they were placed in opposite houses at Hogwarts—Lily in Gryffindor and Snape in Slytherin—their relationship grew more complex. Snape became more envious as a result of this separation, especially of Lily’s friendships with Sirius Black and James Potter, who tormented him.

Image Courtesy: Wizarding World

Their relationship took a drastic turn in the fifth year when Snape, overcome with embarrassment, referred to Lily as a “Mudblood” after she stood up for him against James and Sirius. As a result of their friendship ending at this point, Lily turned away from Snape. Lily sided with the Order of the Phoenix, while Snape joined the Death Eaters as the First Wizarding War intensified. He asked Dumbledore for assistance in protecting Lily after learning of a prophecy that would put her in danger.

Snape was horrified when Lily and James tragically died as a result of Peter Pettigrew’s treason. He worked for Dumbledore because of his regret, but he was still resentful of Harry, who looked like his father. Because it shows unresolved bitterness from his history, Snape’s attitude toward Harry and other students is frequently condemned. Even though Snape has a complex moral code, it is difficult to see him as a hero because of what he did to Harry. His actions raise concerns about his legacy and the depth of his resentment throughout his life, even though he eventually made an effort to honour Lily’s memory.

–Farheen Ali