Based on the provided reference, the answer to whether Severus Snape loved Harry Potter is no.
Severus Snape did not have personal affection or 'like' for Harry. However, his actions and feelings towards Harry were complex and driven by other factors, primarily his deep love for Lily Potter, Harry's mother.
Severus Snape's Feelings Towards Harry Potter
According to the information available:
- He Did Not Like Harry: The reference explicitly states, "No, he doesn't like him - and there's no reason why he should." This clearly indicates a lack of personal liking or affection for Harry as an individual.
- He Cared About Harry: Despite not liking him, Snape did care about Harry. This care stemmed from specific reasons:
- He cared about all his students, implying a general sense of responsibility as a teacher.
- Harry was "the last of Lily," Severus's enduring love. This was a primary motivator for his protective actions.
- He felt partly responsible for Lily's death, which further fueled his commitment to protecting her son.
Key Distinction: Liking vs. Caring
It's important to understand the difference highlighted in the reference:
| Feeling | Directed Towards Harry? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Liking | No | Explicitly stated he did not like Harry. |
| Caring | Yes | General care for students, Harry's connection to Lily, Snape's guilt. |
Snape's complex relationship with Harry was therefore based on a sense of duty and responsibility linked to Lily and his past, rather than personal fondness or love for Harry himself. His actions, often perceived as harsh or cruel by Harry and his friends, were nonetheless ultimately aimed at protecting Harry due to his promise to Dumbledore and his undying devotion to Lily.
In summary, Severus Snape did not like or love Harry Potter as a person, but he cared deeply for him because he was Lily's son and a living reminder of her.
