Would Snape Treat Harry Better If He Looked More Like Lily Evans?

This question delves into the complex dynamics between Severus Snape and the characters in the Harry Potter series, particularly focusing on Harry Potter and Lily Evans. The answer is likely a resounding No, as Snape would treat Harry no better if he resembled Lily, but rather worse.

The Influence of Past Events on Snape's Feelings

The relationship between Snape and Harry is deeply rooted in Snape's past, specifically his unrequited love for Lily Evans and his subsequent betrayal after she chose James Potter over him. These feelings shape Snape's actions and treatment of Harry, and merely altering Harry's appearance would not change the complexity of these emotions.

Emotional Connection

One might argue that if Harry looked more like Lily, Snape might feel a stronger emotional connection to him. This could potentially make Snape more protective or willing to help Harry, seeing him as a manifestation of the person he loved so deeply. However, Snape's treatment of Harry is not solely based on appearance. His resentment towards James Potter runs deep, and this animosity would likely persist, even if Harry resembled Lily more closely.

Resentment Toward James Potter

Snape's animosity towards Harry is partly due to his resemblance to James Potter, who bullied Snape during their time at Hogwarts. While Harry's appearance might reduce some of Snape's negative feelings, it would not eliminate the deep-seated bitterness Snape has toward James. Therefore, even if Harry looked more like Lily, it would not significantly alter Snape's overall treatment of him.

Personal Growth of Snape's Character

Snape's character arc shows a depth and complexity, with moments where he acts in Harry's best interest, particularly when it comes to Harry's safety. This suggests that even if Harry looked more like Lily, Snape's interactions with him would still be nuanced, reflecting the character's growth and development.

The Surrounding Narrative Themes

The Harry Potter series often emphasizes themes of choice, redemption, and the impact of the past on the present. Snape's treatment of Harry is a reflection of these themes, and merely changing Harry's appearance would not significantly alter the overarching narrative. The past actions and relationships that define Snape's character remain integral to the story, regardless of Harry's physical resemblance to Lily.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Harry looking more like Lily Evans could influence Snape's behavior, it is unlikely to drastically change their relationship due to the deep-seated emotions and complexities involved. Snape's treatment of Harry is deeply rooted in his past and his feelings towards James Potter and Lily, making a change in Harry's appearance a superficial one in the grand scheme of the series.