Common plotlines often involve Harry standing up to Snape's snide remarks and bullying. For instance, when Snape makes sarcastic comments about Harry's lack of knowledge in potions or his fame as 'The Boy Who Lived'. Harry might then stand up, showing his own self - respect and determination. This could also lead to a situation where Harry discovers some secrets about Snape's past that make him understand Snape's behavior better, while still not tolerating his unjust treatment.
One common plotline is that Harry stands up to Snape over unfair treatment of his friends, like Hermione or Ron. Another could be about standing up for the rights of all students against Snape's sometimes harsh disciplinary actions. There might also be a plotline where Harry stands up in defense of his own magical abilities when Snape doubts him.
One common theme is justice. Fans often write about characters standing up to Snape to seek fairness, whether it's for themselves or other students. Another theme is courage. It takes a lot of guts to go against a strict and often intimidating teacher like Snape. And friendship also plays a role. Usually, the characters who stand up to Snape are supported by their friends, showing the strength of their bonds.
In these fanfictions, Harry's character often shows great growth. Standing up to Snape means he's overcoming his fear and asserting himself. It could be a sign of his maturing confidence, no longer being intimidated by Snape's harsh exterior. This also might lead to a different dynamic in their relationship, perhaps towards mutual respect as Snape may start to see Harry in a new light.
One possible scenario could be in a potions class. Snape might be unfairly criticizing Harry's work as usual, but this time Harry decides he's had enough. He stands up, looks Snape in the eye, and calmly but firmly defends his potion - making process, explaining how he followed the instructions correctly. This could shock Snape into silence for a moment.
One key moment could be in the potions class. Snape might be unfairly criticizing Hermione's potion - making skills, and she just refuses to take it silently and stands up to him, stating her case clearly. Another moment might be when Snape is being overly harsh on one of her friends, and Hermione steps in, protecting her friend and facing Snape's wrath head - on.
One possible plotline could be that Harry discovers Snape has been secretly working against him in a way that endangers his friends, and in a fit of rage, he attacks Snape. For example, if Snape was found to be involved in a plot to harm Hermione or Ron.
At first, it would likely strain their relationship even more. Snape is used to having the upper hand and Harry's defiance would anger him. But in the long run, it could lead to a grudging respect from Snape. He might start to see Harry as more than just James Potter's son and realize that Harry has his own strength of character.
Often, you'll see plotlines where Snape's desires are tied to his need for redemption. He may see Harry as a way to atone for his past mistakes. Some fanfictions also explore a more emotional connection between them, like Snape becoming a father - figure to Harry in a way. This can involve Snape teaching Harry more about the wizarding world from his own unique perspective. There are also plotlines where Snape and Harry work together to uncover secrets about Harry's past or Hogwarts itself.
Many stories have Snape's past with Harry's mother as a backdrop to his crush. The plot might involve Snape seeing Harry as a combination of Lily and his own ideal. There could also be a plotline where Snape tries to distance himself from Harry to avoid these feelings, but is constantly drawn back.
One common plotline is that Snape becomes a sort of secret mentor to Harry. He imparts his knowledge of the Dark Arts and Defense Against the Dark Arts in a way that the official Hogwarts curriculum doesn't cover.
A great fanfic could be where Hermione stands up for Snape when some other characters are gossiping about his past as a Death Eater. She might argue that people should be judged by their present actions and not be condemned forever for past mistakes. She could point out how Snape has risked his life countless times to protect the students at Hogwarts, like when he tried to keep the Death Eaters at bay during the school's attacks. This shows that Hermione recognizes his true worth and is not afraid to go against the popular opinion to defend him.