Why did Lily choose James Potter over Severus Snape?
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The Harry Potter series, written by J.K. Rowling, has captivated readers worldwide with its enchanting storylines, memorable characters, and intricate web of relationships. One such relationship that has sparked much debate and interest among fans is the romantic connection between Lily Evans, James Potter, and Severus Snape. As the story unfolds, Lily ultimately chooses James Potter, a decision that has far-reaching implications for the characters and the overarching narrative. This essay aims to explore three theories behind Lily's choice of James over Severus, shedding light on the complexity of human relationships and the factors that influence them. Through an analysis of James's personal growth and transformation, Severus's association with the Dark Arts, and the importance of social circles and common values, we will delve into the nuanced reasons behind Lily's decision and its significance in the world of Harry Potter.
Theory 1: James Potter's personal growth and transformation
During his early years at Hogwarts, James Potter was notorious for his arrogance and bullying tendencies. He often targeted Severus Snape, with whom he had a bitter rivalry, subjecting him to humiliation and ridicule. This behavior was not only morally questionable but also unappealing to Lily Evans, who was known for her kind heart and strong sense of right and wrong. Despite his initial flaws, James underwent a significant transformation throughout his time at the magical school.
As James matured, he began to shed his arrogant demeanor and develop more empathy and responsibility. This growth likely contributed to Lily's growing attraction to him. He evolved into a kinder, more considerate person, qualities that Lily would have found endearing and admirable. James also became more focused on his responsibilities as a member of the Order of the Phoenix, fighting against Voldemort and the dark forces that threatened the wizarding world. This change in priorities demonstrated his commitment to doing what was right, aligning him more closely with Lily's own values.
Lily's decision to choose James over Severus can, in part, be attributed to James's personal growth and transformation. By evolving from an arrogant bully into a compassionate, responsible individual, James showed Lily that he was capable of change and worthy of her love. This theory suggests that Lily was drawn to the person James became, rather than the person he once was, ultimately leading her to choose him over her childhood friend, Severus Snape.
Theory 2: Severus Snape's association with the Dark Arts
Another compelling theory behind Lily's decision to choose James over Severus revolves around Severus's growing interest in the Dark Arts. From an early age, Severus displayed a deep fascination with dark magic and was known to dabble in it during his time at Hogwarts. As he progressed through school, his involvement with future Death Eaters, such as Lucius Malfoy and Bellatrix Lestrange, further cemented his connection to the dark side of the wizarding world.
Lily, on the other hand, possessed a strong moral compass and was firmly against the use of dark magic. Her innate sense of right and wrong made her a natural ally to those who fought against the Dark Arts, and her friendships with characters such as the Marauders, as well as her own Gryffindor housemates, reinforced her commitment to standing up against evil forces. As Severus's involvement with the Dark Arts grew, the rift between him and Lily deepened.
Lily's choice to distance herself from Severus and ultimately choose James can be attributed to her disapproval of Severus's dark affiliations. While she cared deeply for her childhood friend, his continued association with dark magic and the rising threat of Voldemort made it increasingly difficult for her to maintain their relationship. This theory posits that Lily's strong moral convictions played a significant role in her decision to choose James, who was actively fighting against the Dark Arts, over Severus, who was seemingly embracing them.
Theory 3: The importance of social circle and common values
The social circles and values associated with James Potter and Severus Snape also played a crucial role in Lily's decision-making process. James's close group of friends, known as the Marauders, shared values of loyalty, bravery, and camaraderie. Despite their occasional mischief and rule-breaking, the Marauders were united in their efforts to protect their friends and stand up against injustice, including the rise of Voldemort and his Death Eaters.
In contrast, Severus's social circle largely consisted of future Death Eaters, individuals who harbored dark and negative intentions. Their prejudiced beliefs and discriminatory actions stood in stark opposition to Lily's own values, further distancing her from Severus. As a Muggle-born witch, Lily was especially sensitive to the growing threat of Voldemort and his followers, who sought to establish a hierarchy in the wizarding world based on blood purity.
Lily's alignment with James's social circle and values became increasingly apparent as their time at Hogwarts progressed. By choosing James, Lily was also choosing the support and protection of his friends, who shared her commitment to fighting against the dark forces threatening their world. This theory suggests that Lily's decision was influenced by the contrasting social circles and values of James and Severus, leading her to choose a partner who aligned more closely with her own beliefs and the people she felt safest with.
