Little is actually known about Severus Snape's back-story. To shed some light on the real Severus Snape, one must look at his origins and actions in order to answer the ultimate question: Is Snape good or evil? His manners, motivations, and loyalties are likewise shrouded in mystery and seeming contradiction.

In between, Snape often lurks in shadow and dwells in dark places. While Snape is first introduced as the 'Potions Master' in the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, he later proclaims himself as the 'Half-Blood Prince' in the book bearing the same name. Meanwhile, six books give ample examples of Snape's conduct and are the basis for present discussions.

Rowling has published seven books for the waiting world. Obviously Snape's story, like the series' title character's own, is incomplete until the seventh and final installment is written by J.K. However, Harry's suspicions have been put down time and again by subsequent events and the Hogwarts Headmaster's repeated vouching for Snape's trustworthiness.

From the first book to the last, Harry has always questioned Snape's actions. Severus Snape is a rich character whose function in the Harry Potter series has been that of an adult antagonist for J.K. With six books full of ambiguous actions and salacious rumors, the debate over Snape's status as 'saint' or 'sinner' is closely linked with his key role in the death of Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

The controversial subject is whether Severus Snape is good, evil, or somewhere in between. Among Harry Potter fans, one subject is quickly overtaking religion and politics as a taboo topic for polite conversation.

Snape half blood prince