Critiquing the Characters in Harry Potter: Snape and Voldemort's Woes

Introduction

The Harry Potter series, penned by J.K. Rowling, is a beloved collection of books that have captured the hearts of millions. However, as with any work of fiction, there are aspects that may provoke thoughtful critique. In this article, we delve into the issues surrounding two prominent characters: Severus Snape and Voldemort, exploring their portrayals, motivations, and the overall impact on the narrative.

Severus Snape: A Complex Character

Severus Snape, the Potions Master and future Headmaster, has elicited strong emotions from fans and critics alike. Some feel that Rowling overemphasized his villainy, resulting in a disappointing resolution to his character arc.

Is Snape a Waste?

The notion that Snape's life was a waste arises from the depth of his malice and regret portrayed in early volumes. However, by book seven, The Deathly Hallows, Rowling provides a redemption arc for Snape, though some feel it falls short. Dumbledore's comments that Snape is a 'terrible person' are indeed striking, but as the narrative progresses, Snape's motivations come to light, revealing layers of a character whose life was more complex than initially perceived.

The Epilogue and Its Criticism

The Epilogue of The Deathly Hallows, which takes place years after the events of the main story, has been a source of controversy. Fans have questioned why Rowling chose to include this final chapter, as it seemed to deviate from the tone and focus of the series. Some feel it is cringe-worthy and does not fully resolve Snape's character arc satisfactorily. The Epilogue raises the question of whether Snape genuinely wanted Harry to die, which is an interesting and complex moral dilemma, particularly given their tumultuous relationship.

Snape's True Intentions

Ultimately, Snape wants to protect Harry, but his motivations are driven by a mix of personal and professional duty. By approaching Harry in his last moments, Snape achieves a sense of closure and purpose, even if it is not entirely his own doing. This serves as the emotional core of the series, providing a more nuanced and thought-provoking character than his initial portrayal of pure villainy.

Voldemort: The Mega Villain Gone Wrong

Voldemort, the dark wizard from the very first books, is another character that has been scrutinized for his inconsistent portrayal. As a powerful and intelligent figure, his actions and motivations are often seen as petty and illogical.

Intelligence and Logic

Voldemort's decision to directly torture his Death Eaters raises questions about his strategic thinking and leadership skills. He seems more interested in fulfilling a sense of personal revenge against Harry's parents, rather than crafting a coherent political movement for his cause. His failure to consider practical solutions, such as utilizing house elves, demonstrates a lack of strategic thinking.

Moreover, his actions during the Battle of Hogwarts are often seen as deranged and illogical, showcasing a low IQ villain. Sending Narcissa Malfoy alone to check on Harry, without verification, is a cringe-worthy moment in the series, given the repeated and strong signals from Narcissa indicating her lack of commitment to his cause.

Conclusion

The characters of Severus Snape and Voldemort showcase the complexities of J.K. Rowling's narrative, with each facing significant criticism in terms of character development and plot consistency. These critiques offer valuable insights into the subtlety and depth of Rowling's storytelling, inviting readers to reexamine the characters and their roles within the Harry Potter universe.