Healing is also a prevalent theme. Given that Harry is fragile and abused, the fanfictions often focus on how he heals both physically and emotionally with Snape's help. It could be through magic, but also through the building of a new relationship. And trust - building is an important aspect as well. Harry has to learn to trust Snape, and Snape has to earn that trust, which adds a lot of drama and depth to the stories.
One common theme is redemption. Snape, who has a complex relationship with Harry in the original series, gets a chance to redeem himself by helping Harry. Another theme is the power of mentorship. Snape, as a more experienced wizard, guides Harry through his difficult times, which is like a form of mentorship.
You can try some well - known fanfiction websites like FanFiction.net or Archive of Our Own (AO3). Just use the search function on these platforms and type in relevant keywords like 'Snape helps Harry', 'abused Harry' etc. to find the fanfictions you're interested in.
One common theme is redemption. Even though Snape is abused, the story might lead to a path where he finds some form of redemption or peace. Another theme could be power struggle. With Snape being in a position of power at Hogwarts but also being a victim of abuse, the power dynamics are often explored.
Another theme is his loyalty. Despite his prickly exterior, Snape was fiercely loyal, and in fanfictions about his 'fragility', this loyalty can be a double - edged sword. It can put him in difficult situations where he has to sacrifice his own well - being, like when he protected Harry for Lily's sake.
One common theme is redemption. Snape often has to atone for his past behavior towards Harry, and taking him in is a step in that direction. It's about him becoming a better person in the face of Harry's need for care.
Often, there is the theme of redemption for Snape. By comforting Harry, he is seen in a more positive light, as if making up for some of his past actions. And for Harry, it can be a theme of finding a father - like figure in Snape, which is a contrast to his own difficult upbringing with the Dursleys.
One common theme is the breaking of barriers. Snape and Hermione start with a lot of animosity, so when he helps her, it's about breaking down those initial negative feelings.
One common theme is redemption. Many fanfictions focus on Snape's redemption in Harry's eyes or vice versa. Another theme is the exploration of their complex relationship. Since they had a rather tumultuous relationship in the original series, fanfictions often dig deeper into it. And of course, there's the theme of mentorship. Snape was a teacher and Harry was a student, so some fanfictions play with the idea of Snape being a more positive mentor to Harry.
One common element is the exploration of Snape's hidden kindness. Usually, in the original series, Snape is often portrayed as cold towards Harry. But in these fanfictions, his true, more compassionate self emerges when he realizes Harry's situation. Another element is the in - depth look at Harry's trauma from the abuse. It shows how it affects his studies, his relationships with others at Hogwarts, and his overall mental state.
One common theme is the struggle for acceptance. Harry, being in Slytherin where he is abused, has to fight to be accepted not only by his housemates but also by others in Hogwarts. For example, in many such fanfictions, he has to prove that just because he's in Slytherin doesn't mean he's like the abusers.
One common theme is his relationship with Lily. Writers often explore how his abuse might have affected his feelings for her and how it influenced their interactions. Another theme is his time at Hogwarts as a teacher. How his past abuse made him act the way he did towards students, like Harry.