Professor Severus Snape: Behind The Character
Generally inspired by an unpleasant Chemistry instructor whom J.K. Rowling was forced to endure during her time in secondary school, Professor Severus Snape is amongst the most intriguing of characters in the Harry Potter world. In many ways, Severus Snape acts as the catalyst for the entire series, as it is he who initially informs Lord Voldemort of the prophecy involving a boy who is to become the Dark Lord's downfall (which consequently leads to the death of Lily and James Potter, as well as the first disappearance of “You-Know-Who” himself). However, Snape's impact is much more widespread than on this specific occasion -- rather, the reader spends essentially the entire duration of the series struggling to decipher where his loyalties truly remain. In essence, as the reader becomes more familiar with Snape's character, they also become more confused in regards to his allegiance. From the onset, J.K. Rowling places Snape in a quite shady role. The reader can...