Another popular theme is the idea of an alternate universe where they could have been friends. In these fanfictions, events are changed, like Snape not being sorted into Slytherin or James being more understanding, which leads to a different relationship between them.
One common theme is redemption. For example, James may be shown as trying to make up for his past bullying of Snape. Another theme is rivalry. Their intense competition at Hogwarts, whether it's for academic achievements or for Lily's attention, is often explored. Also, there's the theme of understanding. Fanfictions often depict them gradually coming to understand each other's motives and hardships.
Another reason is that they are both key figures in Harry's life, albeit in very different ways. Fanfiction often delves into how their relationship could have affected Harry more directly. For example, if they had been on better terms, how might Harry's life at Hogwarts have changed? Also, the mystery and tragedy surrounding Snape, along with James's early death, give writers a lot of material to work with in creating new and exciting stories about their relationship.
The rich backdrop of the Harry Potter universe. Writers can use all the magical elements, the different houses, and the politics within Hogwarts to create interesting scenarios for James and Snape. For example, stories where they are on a secret mission together for the good of the wizarding world. It gives a fresh take on their characters.
One common theme is redemption. For example, James might be shown as trying to make up for his past bullying of Snape. Another theme is the exploration of their mutual jealousy, like Snape's jealousy over James's relationship with Lily. Also, there's often the theme of friendship that could have been, where they gradually learn to understand and care for each other.
In fanfiction, the relationship between Severus Snape and James Potter is often explored in complex ways. Some fanfictions might focus on their rivalry at Hogwarts. They were enemies during their school days, with James often bullying Snape. However, fanfiction writers sometimes delve deeper into their characters, trying to find common ground or exploring what could have been if their relationship had been different.
The exploration of Snape's character is a huge theme. Through time travel, we get to see different sides of him. We can see how his past experiences shaped him and how, if given the chance, he could have become a different person. It allows for a deeper understanding of his motives and actions in the original Harry Potter series.
One popular theme is the exploration of their complex relationship in a new light. Since they have a lot of history in the original series, in gay fanfiction, it often focuses on how they might overcome past animosities and develop a deep emotional connection. Another theme could be their shared experiences at Hogwarts, but from a different perspective that delves into their unspoken feelings for each other. For example, their mutual love for magic and how that could be a bond between them in a romantic sense.
In Severus Snape family fanfiction, the theme of identity is really popular. Severus' family can play a big role in shaping his identity. For instance, if his family has a long history of being dark wizards, how does he deal with that? Another theme is family curses or blessings. Some fanfictions explore if there are any magical curses or blessings that have been passed down in the Snape family. And family loyalty is also a significant theme. Whether Severus stays true to his family values or breaks away from them is often a central plot point in these stories.
A common and really interesting plot is the idea of a time - turner being involved. For example, in some fanfics, James Potter goes back in time to understand Snape better. This allows for a whole new exploration of their relationship as James sees Snape in a different light, away from the schoolyard rivalries. It's a great way to rewrite their history in a more positive way and shows how they could have been friends under different circumstances.
There's also 'Snape's Hidden Past with James Potter'. This fanfiction explores Snape's side of the story more. It reveals some secrets about his early interactions with James that were not shown in the original books. It gives a more sympathetic view of Snape and shows how James, in some ways, misjudged him all those years ago.