The idea of Severus Snape saving baby Harry Potter in fanfiction is really fascinating. It gives authors the chance to explore a lot of uncharted territory. Snape, who was so conflicted in the original books, can be shown as more of a hero in this scenario. It can also change the whole Hogwarts experience for Harry. Instead of the initial hostility between them, there could be a sense of respect or even a mentorship. And it might even affect the relationships Harry has with other characters, like the way he views the Slytherin house.
In the canon story, Snape has a very complex and often antagonistic relationship with Harry. But in fanfictions where he saves baby Harry, it's a huge departure. Here, Snape starts off as a protector, which is completely different from his role in the books where he seems to begrudgingly help Harry at times. It also changes the power dynamics as Harry may grow up with a sense of debt or gratitude towards Snape, rather than the suspicion and dislike he had in the original.
The significance lies in the fact that it reimagines their relationship. Snape, being a complex and somewhat misunderstood character, as a mentor can offer Harry a different perspective on things. It's like Harry gets to see the other side of Snape that was hidden in the original story.
One good example could be a fanfiction where Snape saves Harry from a dark wizard's attack during the Triwizard Tournament. In this fic, Snape might have been secretly following Harry out of his sense of duty to protect him. Another could be a story where Snape saves Harry from a dangerous potion experiment gone wrong in the Potions classroom. He uses his extensive knowledge of potions to counteract the harmful effects.
In these fanfictions, Snape's character often develops from a seemingly cold and unfeeling person to someone with more depth. When he saves Harry, it starts to chip away at his facade. For example, he might initially save Harry out of obligation but as time goes on, he realizes he has a genuine care for the boy. This is different from his canon behavior where his feelings are mostly hidden.
In fanfiction, the rivalry between James Potter and Severus Snape is often intensified. James was a popular and sometimes arrogant Gryffindor. He bullied Snape, which added to the animosity. Snape, on the other hand, was a complex Slytherin with his own insecurities. Fanfictions explore different aspects of their relationship. Some might show James having a change of heart later in life, while others might delve deeper into Snape's unrequited love for Lily and how that affected his relationship with James.
A lot of fanfic writers will create unique storylines for Snape's courtship. They might introduce an original character who manages to break through Snape's tough exterior. His courtship would then involve him struggling with his own insecurities and his reputation. This character might see the good in him that others overlook. There could be moments of tension and misunderstanding, but also deep, meaningful conversations as they get to know each other better.
Often in fanfiction, the ring can be a plot device. It could be that Harry Potter unknowingly has a connection to the ring, and Severus Snape has to keep it from falling into the wrong hands. This creates a situation where Snape has to protect both Harry and the ring, leading to some tense and interesting storylines.
Well, in these fanfictions, the theme of unexpected relationships is quite common. Snape and Harry having a father - son like relationship is something that was not in the original series. Also, the theme of hope is there. Despite all the difficulties and the dark world they live in, the presence of baby Harry gives Snape hope for a better future. And then there is the theme of self - discovery. Snape discovers new aspects of himself as he takes on the role of a caregiver for Harry.
In this fanfiction, the story could start with Harry finding Snape in a very vulnerable state after the Battle of Hogwarts. Harry feels a deep sense of guilt for how Snape was treated throughout his life. So he decides to adopt him. At first, their relationship is awkward. Snape is still his old sarcastic self, but Harry is determined. As time passes, they discover they have a lot in common. They both lost their parents at a young age, and they both had to face great challenges. This newfound understanding leads to a transformation in their relationship. Harry helps Snape to come out of his shell of bitterness, and Snape teaches Harry more about the Dark Arts in a controlled and ethical way so that Harry can better protect the wizarding world in the future.
The plot could involve a Veela who is seeking revenge on Hogwarts for an old wrong. She targets Harry Potter as he is the famous Boy Who Lived, thinking that by getting to him she can get the attention of the wizarding world. Severus Snape, being the ever - vigilant professor, senses something is wrong. He starts to investigate and discovers the Veela's plan. As he tries to protect Harry, he also uncovers some secrets about his own past that are related to the Veela. Along the way, Harry and Snape have to put aside their differences and work together to stop the Veela's vengeful plot.