What Would Snape Do at Malfoy Manor: A Deeper Dive

Introduction

Would Severus Snape have stood by and watched as Harry, Ron, and Hermione were captured at Malfoy Manor, or would he have taken action to help them? This question has intrigued fans of the Harry Potter series for years. In this article, we explore the motivations and character traits of Snape to determine the most likely course of action.

Snape’s Past Decisions

Snape's choices in the series are often marked by compromise and loyalty to his own agenda. One of his most significant decisions is in Deathly Hallows during Chapter 6, when he agrees to reveal the correct date of Harry’s departure. This act, though misguided, highlights a degree of loyalty to Dumbledore’s plans.

Another notable decision is his part in placing the Sword of Gryffindor in the frozen pond. This action was not done to assist Harry but rather to put him through a difficult situation. This move, while serving a plot point, demonstrates Snape's willingness to put Harry in harm's way.

Options for Snape's Actions

At Malfoy Manor, Snape faces a critical decision. He has several options:

1. Sacrifice Cover to Save Harry

The most altruistic option would be for Snape to reveal himself as a double agent and attempt to rescue Harry and his friends. However, this comes with significant risks. If he is discovered, it could compromise all his efforts and, ultimately, the war. This option seems the most altruistic but also the most dangerous.

2. Maintain Cover and Do Nothing

Another option is for Snape to maintain his cover, ensuring his work as a spy continues. This would mean allowing events to unfold as they will, which, while aligning with his current mission, would likely result in Harry’s capture and a substantial risk of losing the war. This option is purely pragmatic but fraught with potential crises.

3. Let Things Run Their Course

Snape could simply observe the situation from a distance, leaving Harry and his friends to fend for themselves. This option preserves his cover but disregards his known loyalty to both Dumbledore and Lily Potter.

Snape’s Inner Conflict

Snape's actions are driven by a complex mix of loyalty and self-interest. His love for Lily, which he believes was betrayed by Voldemort, has been a guiding force. He still mourns her loss and bears a grudge against Dumbledore. Does Severeus put more stock in his mission to defeat Voldemort or in the chance to redeem himself for his past actions?

Snape has a tangled history with Harry, whom he despises due to his connection to his betrothed. However, he also has a deep-seated sense of justice and a desire to protect those he cares about deeply. This inner conflict makes his decision even more challenging.

Conclusion

Based on Snape's character and the context of the series, it is most likely that he would take the second option: maintaining his cover and allowing events to unfold. This decision is a blend of survival instinct and strategic pragmatism, given his established pattern of behavior and the significant risks associated with revealing his true nature.

While this analysis is speculative, it aligns with the established narrative of D. J. Clark and provides a glimpse into the complex psyche of Snape. The question of what Snape would do remains a poignant reminder of the many grey areas in a world filled with black-and-white morality.