Why Some View Severus Snape’s Love as Creepy While James Potter’s is Not

The perception of Severus Snape#39;s love for Lily Potter, as depicted in the Harry Potter series, often diverges from the portrayal of James Potter pursuing Lily. Here, we explore the reasons why Snape’s feelings might be seen as creepy compared to James's love, which is more pure and respectful. We also examine why Lily did not find James’s advances to be problematic.

Obsession vs. Love

Snapes Love for Lily: Snape's feelings for Lily can be viewed as obsessive. He clings to the past, idealizing her, and continues to focus on her long after she has moved on. This fixation can lead to behaviors that are perceived as unhealthy and potentially creepy. His attempts to control or influence events around Lily, such as in the attempt to protect her son, are seen as intrusive and contribute to the unsettling nature of his love.

Jealousy and Resentment

Jealousy and Resentment: Snape's jealousy of James Potter, who eventually wins Lily’s heart, influences his actions. This jealousy is often interpreted as possessive rather than genuinely loving. His resentment towards James and his efforts to undermine Lily's relationship with James can make his feelings seem unsettling and unwanted.

Lack of Boundaries

Lack of Boundaries: Throughout the series, Snape's behavior, such as his attempts to influence events around Lily, contributes to the perception that his love for her is unwholesome and intrusive. His persistent and often meddling actions, especially in his role as a double agent, further emphasize the sense that his love is more about manipulation than genuine affection.

James Potter’s Love for Lily

Growth and Change: James initially pursued Lily in a way that was immature and somewhat arrogant, pursuing her with a nonchalant attitude. However, by the time they are together, he has grown significantly, showing a more respectful and loving side. This transformation indicates a mature and thoughtful approach to relationships.

Mutual Affection: Lily eventually reciprocates James’s feelings, viewing him as a worthy partner. Their mutual affection contrasts with Snape’s unreciprocated love, which can make James's advances seem less problematic and more genuine.

Respect for Lily's Choices: James respects Lily's autonomy, ensuring that their relationship evolves into a partnership based on love and mutual respect. He does not harass or stalk her, which sets him apart from Snape’s obsessive and intrusive behavior.

Why Didn’t Lily Feel Creeped Out by James?

Reciprocal Feelings: While Lily initially found James annoying, his growth and genuine love for her eventually won her over. This shows that her feelings towards James developed over time, making his advances less problematic and more acceptable.

Character Development: James matures, transforming from a brash teenager into a responsible and loving partner. This character development helps to alleviate any discomfort that Lily might have felt from his earlier advances. His later behavior is marked by respect and understanding, which contrasts with Snape’s persistent and interfering love.

Different Contexts: The context of their relationship is different. Lily and James’s eventual romance is built on mutual respect and love, while Snape’s feelings are rooted in a one-sided attachment that lacks the same foundation. Lily's eventual acceptance and love for James can be seen as an evolution of their relationship, making James's advances less problematic compared to Snape’s persistent and unsettling behavior.

In summary, the differences in how Snape and James express their affections and the nature of those affections contribute to the contrasting perceptions of their love for Lily. While James’s growth and respect for Lily’s autonomy make his love more pure and acceptable, Snape’s obsessive and intrusive behavior can make his feelings seem creepy and unsettling.