Introduction

There is a persistent argument among fans of the Harry Potter series that some characters, particularly James and Sirius, did not actually intimidate or bully Severus Snape before the Whomping Willow incident. However, a closer examination of the existing evidence and context from the books reveals a different story.

Evidence of Early Intimidation

Some fans argue that the interaction between James and Severus Snape aboard the train during their first year at Hogwarts is nothing more than playful pranking. However, early interactions between them suggest a more serious and menacing undertone. James surprises Snape in the compartment and calls him Snivellus, a derogatory nickname. Snape's immediate reaction is to leave the compartment, implying that he took this behavior very seriously:

“See you later,” Snape muttered coldly, clutching his name badge as a shield against James’ milling nightmares.

Here, Snape's statement, “See you later,” clearly implies a threat. His behavior indicates that he is not just being played with but is frightened and threatened.

Extending the Feud

The Whomping Willow incident involved a prank that was both malicious and potentially fatal. This prank suggests an ongoing feud between the Marauders and Severus Snape. It is logical to assume that if Snape was not already a target, they would not have risked his life with a prank that could go wrong. This incident, which took place roughly six months before the memory that was later shown in the series, strengthens the argument that the Marauders were actively intimidating Snape well before the event.

Establishment of a Pattern

By the time the Severus Snape’s most psychologically damaging memory plays out, it is clear that a consistent pattern of bullying had been established. James and Sirius frequently insulted and hexed Snape without provocation. This established pattern suggests that the bullying began earlier, even if specific incidents are not detailed. The animosity between the two, fueled by envy and hatred, indicates that it was not just a one-time event but an ongoing problem.

Snape's Obsession and Sirius's Revenge

It's important to note that Severus Snape was actively working to have the Marauders expelled. Before the incident, he was likely investing significant effort into this goal. Even if they had not directly targeted him, the animosity and provocation suggested that he felt this was necessary for his own safety. On the other hand, Sirius Black/Sirius focused on getting more than just expulsion: he wanted to see Snape dead. This shows a level of spite and revenge that suggests a deeper, ongoing conflict.

Bullying Dynamics and Motivation

The idea that Snape was a solitary weakling harassed by a group of bullies is illogical. Bullying dynamics are not about the weak trying to provoke bullies but about the bully attempting to assert dominance and control. Snape's actions and reactions suggest that he was genuinely threatened by the Marauders and was trying to neutralize that threat, which would explain his obsession with getting them expelled.

Claiming that they only started bullying Snape out of revenge ignores the social and emotional context. It’s much more plausible that the Marauders were engaging in bullying behavior based on the consistent teasing, insults, and hexes they directed at Snape over time. This bullying became more intense after the Whomping Willow incident, as they sought further retribution.

In conclusion, while there is no explicit evidence of every single interaction, the consistent pattern of behavior, the established feud, and Snape's and Sirius's actions before and after the incident all point to a serious pattern of bullying initiated by the Marauders. The argument that this was a one-time occurrence is undermined by the clear evidence of ongoing, escalating behavior.