What if Snape Taught Defense Against the Dark Arts at Hogwarts?
In the wizarding world of Harry Potter, the Defense Against the Dark Arts (DADA) teacher is a pivotal role. Given the disruptive and jinxed nature of this position, what would have happened if Snape, who has a reputation as the darkest character, took over the role for Harry's entire schooling?
Harry's Struggles in DADA
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Loss of Key Defensive Skills
In order to effectively protect himself and others, Harry needed robust defensive magic skills far more than he did in Potions. However, under Snape's watchful (or rather, unwatchful) eye, Harry would have struggled to master these crucial spells. For instance, he would not have learned the Patronus Charm, which proved to be a life-saving skill in the third Harry Potter book.
Consequences of Snape's Teaching
Snape's unyielding hatred for Harry would have made him an exceptionally poor teacher. Being bullied by one's professor in DADA would be disastrous. Not only would Harry fail his Defense classes, but he might not even survive to reach the Triwizard Tournament's final challenge. In the Goblet of Fire, Snape's failure to teach Harry may very well have resulted in his death in the graveyard or before even reaching the cup.
Positive Outcomes Unfulfilled
Under a capable DADA instructor, Harry could have gained valuable knowledge that prepared him for his battles against Voldemort. In the books, he benefited from the teachings of Mad-Eye Moody, who, despite his allegiance to Voldemort, provided efficient and ruthless instruction. Even though Snape was clearly capable, his immense dislike for Harry would have rendered any lessons unhelpful.
ripple Effect on the Tide of War
The impact of having Snape as an unhelpful DADA teacher would be far-reaching. It wouldn't just be Harry who suffered; the entire school, perhaps even the entire wizarding world, would be at a disadvantage. Voldemort would have a significant advantage if Harry was unprepared for the dark arts.
Isolation and Lack of Support
Snape's teaching would have isolated Harry further. He would have never formed the connection with DADA that he did with Raipon Lupin or Mad-Eye Moody. Their presence provided not just knowledge, but also emotional support that was crucial for Harry's development. Occlumency sessions with Snape would more likely have been ineffective, and the relationship would have been poisoned due to Snape's disdain for Harry.
Minor Characters and Plot Points
Moreover, numerous other characters and plot points would have been altered. Remus Lupin would need assistance with the Wolfsbane potion, and someone would have had to take over DADA when Remus was in wolf form. Continued night patrols and potion brewing would fall on others, and Harry's relationship with Severus Snape would be far worse.
Conclusion
The decision to jinx the Defense Against the Dark Arts position was a stroke of genius. While it caused problems, it inadvertently protected the young Harry from a potentially disastrous situation. If Snape had taught DADA, the consequences would have been catastrophic. Harry's growth, the wizarding world's safety, and ultimately the war against Voldemort would have unraveled into a bloody nightmare.