The Debate Over Snape and the Levicorpus Spell: Fanship Loyalty and Interpretation

Introduction: The Harry Potter Franchise and its Fanbase

The Harry Potter series, written by J.K. Rowling, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions of readers around the world. The intricate character development and complex plot of the series have led to intense fandoms, with each character having loyal followers. Among these, Severus Snape is a particularly polarizing figure. Some fans vehemently defend him while others criticize his actions. This article delves into the reasons why some fans refuse to acknowledge that Snape invented the Levicorpus spell, which is later used against him.

Character Loyalty: The Backstory and Redemption

One of the core reasons for this debate lies in the deep-seated connections fans have with their favorite characters. Snape's tragic backstory, complex personality, and ultimate redemption arc are often viewed with immense sympathy by his supporters. They emphasize his victimization at the hands of others, especially James Potter, and downplay or reinterpret incidents that cast him in a negative light. This perspective helps them rationalize and defend Snape, even when it conflicts with the broader narrative.

Interpretation of Events: The Levicorpus Spell Controversy

The specific incident in question is the Levicorpus spell—a nonverbal spell that causes the victim to rise by their ankles. Supporters of Snape may argue that the fact that Snape invented the spell does not necessarily mean he used it against James. They base this argument on several points:

The Second Clause Argument: The original post (OP) mentions that they are not concerned with Snape's invention. However, the debate revolves around whether Snape used the spell on James first. No Canonical Evidence: The debate hinges on the lack of explicit evidence from the books supporting this claim. Fans of Snape often cite J.K. Rowling's comments about the relationship between James and Snape, describing it as "relentless bullying."

Nonverbal Spell Explanations: Plausibility of Learning Through Observation

Supporters of Snape also argue that the nonverbal nature of the Levicorpus spell could have led to James learning it in a different manner. Hermione Granger, a character known for her extensive knowledge, mentions that the spell was later popularized for various uses, such as lifting the injured or unconscious. This means that James could have learned the spell through means other than direct application.

In addition, the actions and behavior of the Marauders (James, Sirius, and Remus) support the idea that James could have learned the spell by observing Snape. Remus, in particular, does not know who the Half-Blood Prince is, and if James was frequently tormented by Snape using Levicorpus, it seems unlikely that his friends would not have been aware of it. Moreover, the Marauders are known for their mischief, and James's possession of a map and invisibility cloak suggests he could have secretly observed and practiced the spell.

Engagement and Dialogue: The Role of Fan Theory

These debates within the fandom reflect a broader engagement with the series, where fans interpret and recontextualize events to align with their personal feelings and beliefs. While some fans adopt a defensive posture towards criticism of Snape, others seek to understand and justify his actions within the context of the narrative. This dialogue contributes to the ongoing evolution of the series within the fan community, reinforcing the rich tapestry of interpretations and discussions surrounding Harry Potter.

Ultimately, the debate over Snape and the Levicorpus spell highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of character interpretation in the Harry Potter universe. Whether one sides with the defenders of Snape or critiques his actions, the richness of the series lies in its ability to provoke such deep and meaningful discussions among its fans.

Explore the world of Harry Potter beyond the books—dive into fan theories, character studies, and the intricate layers of the narrative that continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.