Snape teach DADA? Does he really want the position?

i know we've talked about the next DADA teacher in general but do you guys think we will ever get to see him be one. personally i'd like to see him teach it. maybe in the 7th book?

I don't think we will see Snape as DADA teacher. I think that the rumor that he wants the job is just a rumor. He likes his potions way to much to give up teaching the class. "You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion making... ... I don't expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses..." -SS/PS These words are spoken by a man who love his subject not someone who is waiting for a better post to open up.

I am sick of the one DADA teacher a year maybe the next one will be to stay lets hope she is. Snape loves potions why teach DADA if he is already doinng what he loves?

Rumors are based in some fact so I think he does want the job.
Potions could be second choice while dark arts are his real passion.
That is why he became a death eater I suspect. To get to work
in that area he is so interested in.

I think Snape wants it, but Dumbles just won't give it to him. And I think that every year we will have a new DADA teacher. It's kinda become a...well, um...trademark I guess. Every year we get a new DADA teacher.

I really doubt Snape will ever get the position.

i think he likED da but obviously he doesn't n e more b/c he's on dd's side. he mite be good b/c he knows how the des do magic & would be able to teach how 2 defend themsleve better than others. but that mite bring up bad memories of the des & voldy. plus, he's like the best potions master they've got. dd would have to get some pretty experinced potions master to fill snape's place. maybe there is sometype of dada potions that he could teach, that be kewl.:D

Rumors aren't always based on truth! :lol:

I agree that Snape would much rather teach potions. But I think it's possible he MIGHT teach DADA one year...after all, he is as expert as anyone can be on the subjects of Voldemort and Death Eaters, and these are what the students need to protect themselves from right now.

I think Snape's preference isn't only shown by his obvious enthusiasm and skill for potions, but the incompetent and ham-fisted way he subbed for Lupin!

Originally posted by Inkwolf
Rumors aren't always based on truth! :lol:

They often are.
Maybe not the she dated that guy rumors but
in a school like Hogwarts someone hears something and then it spreads around. What they first heard was true but it gets
lost in the retelling. Ghosts have nothing better to do so they might have embellished.

Maybe he's not "after" the job actively but I think he reveled in taking Lupin's
place a little too much. Maybe to prove Lupin was a bad teacher 'cause he hates him but also to say to Dumbeldore "See, he isn't good at the job. Get someone better. Me."

I don't know. I think he wants the job. Looks like I'm alone in this pretty much.

He'll never get it.

There are two sides to this argument.

The first side is that he doesn't really want the job, it's only a rumor. He loves his post as Potions Master. I don't really have much of an argument for this, except that Snape might not want to involve himself in anything that would relate to his past.

The second side is that he wants the job, but probably won't get it. It's quite possible. Because he's teaching about a subject he's familiar in, he can be more intimidating--and teach more. He knows the tactics, the curses, the creatures; he's been involved in them himself. While he isn't particularly kind to his students, he's a good teacher, and takes an interest in their well-being; it's possible that he doesn't want to give them sympathy because he wants them to harden. He isn't a monster, but he only does kind things that, if handled differently, could be considered cruel. He dislikes their innocence, maybe because he doesn't have it and maybe because he doesn't think they can survive with it. If he was to teach the students, they would benefit...it just doesn't seem likely.

Would it be possible for Snape to teach Harry privately off of Dumbledore's orders, in a later book if not now?

I think he's mean because they are dunderheads.
He doesn't need to help Lupin become a better person does he?
And he's not mean to those he likes like Dumbledore or Malfoy.
Malfoy is in need of being hardened more than anyone.

If Snape did get the class (not that he will) he would probably
allow Malfoy to try a curse on Harry again.
Not good.

It would be neat if Snape taught Harry privately but
I think they'll do what they've always done. Hermione
will help him and Sirius will get advice now and then.
Snape will call him a dunderhead for even having to ask.

incompetent and ham-fisted way he subbed for Lupin!


He was doing that because he was ticked at Lupin for what he did years ago. He just wanted everyone to figure out what Lupin was and then get him fired.

I think he will never become the dada teacher. The reason why is that jkr will always introduce a new character by that excuse each year.
And prove that the job is really jinxed.

I think the rumour was started by Snape and/or Dumbledore to provide cover for Snape. He wants to be seen as still working for Voldie even if he isn't, hence his position both as Slytherin head, and the rumour he want to be DADA teacher. What better place could he corrupt the kids from?

I think that whilst DD trusts Snape, he doesn't trust him enough to give him that job because of his background.

Originally posted by kgonekrazy
I don't think we will see Snape as DADA teacher. I think that the rumor that he wants the job is just a rumor. He likes his potions way to much to give up teaching the class. "You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion making... ... I don't expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses..." -SS/PS These words are spoken by a man who love his subject not someone who is waiting for a better post to open up.

Oh, I think he would like to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts. But those words are of a man who is remarkably suited to his job. His is a great potions master in many ways. He couldn't be replaced in the hearts of his terrified students. A pleasant teacher just wouldn't have the same effect in that dungeon.

Besides... being a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher probably has some glory among the staff (much in the same way that being Seeker on the team is the most honoured for being most dangerous) but who in their right minds would apply for a career in potion teaching? Snape is needed down there.

Hey guys! I was just wondering what you all think about Snape and the DADA job. Why hasn't he ever gotten it? Do you think it has something to do with Dumbledore? Personally I think it has to do with him being a former death eater... but I dunno.
What do you think??

I think it could be something to do wiht his inthusiasm. Too much of it. Don't you think Snape would start putting extremely hard challenges against them, and setting them extremely hard work. Or they may not be able to find other Potions teachers around.

I'd agree with the former Death Eater thing. Dumbledore's probably afraid Snape would be too tempted to start ignoring the "defense" aspect.

It wouldn't surprise me at all if he got the post by Harry's seventh year, though. Eventually, Dumbledore will probably decide Snape's ability to prepare the students to face the current Death Eaters outweighs the risk.

(Someday I'll get tired of saying this...)

I don;t believe Snape WANTS to be DADA.

What evidence is there? A student rumor passed around the Gryffindors, who probably wouldn't know. The fact that he doesn;t like the DADA teachers (for good reason!)

On the other hand, he seems to really appreciate potion-making. Reread his welcoming speech in book one! Those aren;t the words of a man who's not teaching a subject he loves.

Furthermore, when he and Harry were having their yelling fight (PoA?), Harry brought it up to him, and Snape didn't act the slightest bit as if he cared. He's not the sort of guy to suffer in silence when someone's touched a nerve, is he?

Plus, when he subbed for Lupin's class, he didn't seem to get much thrill out of it or try to show he was good at it. In fact, he didn;t even know where Kappas were from, and only used the opportunity to try to expose Lupin. If he WANTED the job, wouldn't he have made more effort to impress?

Finally, Dumbledore insists that he trusts Snape. If he trusts Snape, and Snape wants to do a job that NOBODY else wants, then I'm sure Dumbles would let him have a try at it.

Inkwolf, I agree that Snape doesn't really want the DADA job. He just despises the DADA Teachers. Quirrel, because if his stutter and know-it-allness; Lockhart, because he was a brainless, egocentric git; Lupin, for obvious reasons; and Moody because...um, I don't know. Maybe Moody caught Snape as a DE....

I never thought about that... He might just not want it... What a fool I've been :banghead: That's an excellent theory. Though there's always the chance that Dumbledore may make him teach DADA, to prepare the Hogwarts students to fight against Voldemort. It may just be that Snape only knows about the curses aspect of DADA. He might not have as much experiance with dark creatures. Who knows.

Or he's just really better at Potions than with DADA. Besides, like Inkwolf says, he may not like the DADA position after all. That could be a very big possibility.

You never know...Snape could've become a transvestite and is now the new female Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. :wow: No I'm just kidding. Well, there can be many reasons why Snape isn't the DADA teacher. Like said before, he could be better at potions than he is in defense. Maybe the fact that he's the teacher of the considered "Dark" house of Hogwarts could be keeping him away from the profession. And his history. There's are many theories, and I hope that we get to find out in future books! (Hint J.K. Hint)

I'm going to be part of the History category. Although he has the full confidence and trust of Professor Dumbledore. There is still a limit you give to any recovering person. You dont tempt an alcholic do you. Of course this is entirely hypothetical as we really dont know the history yet do we...

^_^

i agree with Inkwolf... maybe i hadnt thought of it but it does make sense. He likes Potion making and he didnt really do a good job when he filled in for Lupin. I think that because the students thought he wanted it, we took it for granted that he wanted it

I also agree with Inkwolf. Rumours have very little basis, especially at a school with people living as close-together as in Hogwarts. There must be plently of rumours and that sort of thing there.
I also think Snape is best at Potions, so he would have no need to switch to DADA. Dumbledore seems to think that too. Snape seemed rather into his Potions teaching in Harry's first lesson.
And when Dumbledore gives people a second chance, I don't think he would hold their past against them, especially since Snape turned back from being a Death Eater.

Maybe its not so much he loves potions (I agree he does) but has natural talent for it. People often have talent and love of one thing but also an deep passion for something completly different, I mean I would love to be an astronaught, but sadly am better suited to the seldom thanking job I have now. Dd knows that Snape is best at Potions and thus keeps him there. But I still think my other point might be valid as well...

^_^

Originally posted by Qeomash
and Moody because...um, I don't know. Maybe Moody caught Snape as a DE....

I think Evan Rosier might have something to do with it!

Evan Rosier was one of Snape's old school buddies. He became a Death Eater, and Moody caught him and killed him in a duel. Rosier must have been tough--he's the one who blew the missing piece out of Moody's nose. :p Moody also obviously didn't believe Snape genuinely turned against the Dark side. Under the circumstances, it would be natural for Snape to fear Moody, even if Moody hadn't bullied him throughout GoF, and searched his office and stuff.

i think that Snape never really wanted the DADA job, he likes potions too much or maybe it's easier for him to bully students with potions. mean, ugly git that he is !

Snape is good at anything. Yes, Snape is the best.

He would kick Dumbledore's butt at any time ;)

He's ricktastic!

*sigh*
Have you seen An Awfully Big Adventure?

I so like him in that...Hmm...

*dreams of Snape as Headmaster of Hogwarts.*

No I haven't. James Frain is in that too. *cries*

Dark Harbor was an awful movie but I like to watch it to see him
get some guy on guy action with Norman Reedus.

Snape as headmaster! Snape for president!
Why isn't he coasting on his looks instead of Lockhart?

Lockhart is soo gross comapred to the dark manliness of Snape...

Snape deserves to be headmaster.

James was in An Awfully Big Adventure? I cant remember?

Yeah he's in that. I don't think it was a large role? Hugh Grant probably stole all of his screentime.

I had a crush on Branagh when I was 12 and not Rickman. I will tell myself now that I saw Robin Hood 4 times in theater for him. Not Christian Slater...
I was stupid! When Hermione is older she will lament her missed chance to drool over him all day.

Branagh? Nah, never liked him...

Oh, i would kill to be Hermione. Hmm, detention with the potions master. :D
I wouldnt learn a thing if i had him for a lecturer. I would be too busy perving...

He was great in Dead Again and Much Ado About Nothing.
Like everyone else I lost interest when Frankenstein came out and liked Tim Roth instead.

Why isn't Mrs. Severus Snape written in her notebook about a thousand times?
I *would* ask him for a love potion.

hmm, i make a love potion and slip it in his night drink...

Hmm..
:D

I bet if I gave Dobby a pair of socks he'd slip it into his goblet.
"Mariel is so kind. Kinder than Dobby knew."
"yes yes could you put this into Snapes drink?"
*bangs head*

hmm, i would borrow an invisibility colack. I want to get into his rooms...

to answer the age old question: what exactly is under Snapes robes *evil*

Maybe Snape is of Scottish descent and there is nothing under there...
Or he has a wedgie which would explain his additude sometimes.

Just to be pedantic (it's all about the little things, right?) I think it's necessary to differentiate between "rumours" and "gossip." I've recently finished procrastinating (aka studying) for a subject that deals with group dynamics and the psychology of communication. What I allegedly "learnt" is that rumours have some basis in truth, whilst gossip does not. Then again the term "rumour" is usually applied to the diffusion of information on a large scale; gossip is usually involved in interpersonal or small group communication. I'm guessing Snape's supposed interest in the DADA position is gossip...just on quite a significant scale.

hmm, can i be official Snape Wedgie-Unpluker? ;)

nah, that would get too gross :rasp:

i do have a pic of Alan in a kilt. :D

I don't want that position either....

Alan in a kilt pictures!

well...

whoa...how OT have i got :D

He looks Ricktastic!

Snape-a-licious, baby ;)

Splendsnape-ific!

Someone suggested in another thread that Snape dislikes the DADA teachers because he doesn't think they're competent enough to teach it. He knows what Dark Arts can do and wants the students taught how to defend themselves against it properly, even if he prefers teaching potions himself. Maybe the students saw his dislike of the DADA teachers and misunderstood the reason, so starting the rumour.

Snape IS a fascinating guy. I'd be observing every facial expression he made. So yeah a kid could watch their interaction and run to tell everyone "Snape hates the new dada teacher!"
It would make them feel better that Snape was mean to them too probably.

What Puffskein said made perfecet sense to me. I've enver looked at it that way, but it makes sense!:bigtu:

Students at Hogwarts are known to start rumours and they tend to travel fast. Maybe Snape doesn't want the job, it is just a rumour.

Originally posted by dumbleedore
Students at Hogwarts are known to start rumours and they tend to travel fast. Maybe Snape doesn't want the job, it is just a rumour.

Hmmm I feel a distinct case of Deju Vu. We had this disscusion somewhere else and we came to the conclusion that Snape really didnt want the DADA job, he has a deep love for potions, go and read what Snape says during Harry's first potions class...

who knows the dark arts better than someone who practices them,

thinking about maybe it was not cabbage that Arabella Fig smelled of??
could she be the new potions teacher, and snape gets the dada post.

I say no... there is really no support for it outside of what the STUDENTS say. Neither the teachers nor Snape himself give any indication that he wants it. Many times Harry and Co. interpret his contempt/disdain/impatience with existing DADA teachers as jealousy... but when we look back after the plot unfolds, this just isn't the case: Quirrel was working for Voldie, Lockhart... welll duh, Lupin was an old childhood nemesis and Moody/Crouch kept acting like he was out to get him. Snape is happy in Potions (well, as happy as he gets, anyway). He seems to be a true master at it.

At one time, I wanted him to get the DADA position at the very end of the series. Like the end of book 7, Snape is announced as the DADA teacher for the next (unwritten) year. Of course, the more I thought about it, the more I realised Snape has no interest.

As I am sure many here would agree, there is much more to Snape than meets the eye. He may be bitter, but he's basically good. He's one of my favorite characters. I am eagerly awaiting what layers will come off as the series progresses.

What say you?

I tend to agree. There is no real evidence to suggest that he wants the position. Besides, as Lupin pointed out, he is really talented in the area of potions. Besides, he fits so well in the dungeons ;) i can't imagine him anywhere else. And i personally feel, that if he wanted the DADA position, then Dumbledore would have given it to him if he had asked for it. I mean, it's not like their is a teacher there that is standing in his way, the teacher changes every year and you have to admit, Snape is pretty knowlegeable about the Dark Arts. I reckon it would be easier to find a replacement for potions than it would for DADA so i don't reckon that Snape wants the position. (Mmmmm, am i going in circles here? sorry! :D)

Yeah I agree, though I still think it would be interesting to see him get it. Hmm, I wonder how he'll end up not liking the next one, if indeed he doesn't like her.

Greetings beleivers! I would like to bring to your attentionteh following threads :)

Snape and DADA Job (http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2250&highlight=Snape)

Snape teach DADA? (http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1597&highlight=Snape)

Both answer and ponder the questions you are asking :)

meep meep :)

I've thought this for a while. Sometimes we get told something so much in the form of gossip that we take it as truth, not as idle chit-chat. He has had reasons to hate all of the Defence Against Dark Arts teachers that we have seen so far:


Proffessor Quirrel was suspected to be a spy for Voldemort
Gilderoy Lockhart was hopeless, and annoyed everyone.
Remus Lupin made a fool of Snape whilst at Hogwarts with him.
Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody was an Auror, possibly the one who caught Snape.

Originally posted by Justin





Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody was an Auror, possibly the one who caught Snape.


Well, you mist remember that Snape turned back to 'The Good Side' long before Voldemort's fall from power.

Originally posted by ::Revolutionary::
Well, you mist remember that Snape turned back to 'The Good Side' long before Voldemort's fall from power.

But do we know when exactly? I think I have asked this before, but never got an answer. When did he become a death eater, and when did he come back over to the "good side"?

Now I am bloody scared. Dangerously close to agreeing though. *Ok Rose, you are 16. He is old enough to be your father. Eww.*

i think that in the feature he will get to be a DADA teacher.

well if the kids say it then it must be true, becuase after all JK is putting those words in their mouths, so it has to mean something, she probably is giving us a hint and we dont even know about it.

I think he does want the job....only basing this thought of course on the fact that he hates all of the DADA teachers.

Originally posted by Wild Rose
But do we know when exactly? I think I have asked this before, but never got an answer. When did he become a death eater, and when did he come back over to the "good side"?

Well i can only guess.
Snape probably joined Voldermort because he wanted some power.
He probably stopped supporting him because he could see what he was doing was wrong and that he would benefit more from joining 'The Good Side'

I'm pretty sure we are never told when he comes back. I've looked through th books, and asked various people. No-one (Except JKR, obviously) knows!

Well we are told that he turned back before Vold-You-Know-Whos downfall.

If Snape had been after the Defense Against the Dark Arts job for years, why did they say they only got Lockhart for it becasue nobody else wanted it? THEY DID, they DO, SEVERUS SNAPE. So why doesn't Dumbledore give him the job???

We will soon find out, won't we....

No, probably because there aren't too may people who could teach potions...just my guess!

Maybe Dumbledore's worried that teaching DADA will bring back all sorts of evil memories for Snape.

Or maybe Snape's the only qualified potions teacher in the wizarding community.

Parents in the wizarding world seem to complain just as much as they do in muggle society. Maybe Dumbledore knows that parents would be none to happy about a former dealth eater being the DEFENSE against the dark arts teacher. We all know here at CoS that its your choices that make the person and Snape gave up evil, but parents have this wierd paranoa when it comes to their kids.

Originally posted by xicanti:
Maybe Dumbledore's worried that teaching DADA will bring back all sorts of evil memories for Snape.

Yes, and since Snape's good at potions, Dumbledore put him there instead.

He seems to me to be more than just "good" at potions...but rather gifted in it.

There's a good saying - don't ever be irreplaceable if you want to get promoted or change departments/positions. Snape must be the best person for Potions so he's stuck.
I've been in that position for a stupid job so I imagine an important one like potions master is doubly true.

Well, students say Snape wants to teach DADA, but Snape himself says nothing, maybe it's just a rumor to frighten new DADA teachers and have fun of them.

There are actually two older threads on this which you can read here:

http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1597&highlight=snape+teach+DADA

http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2250&highlight=snape+teach+DADA

I'm with those who believe Snape doesn't want the job. Just too much evidence against it. I believe people 'know' he wants the job like people 'knew/know' that Marie Antoinette said "Let them eat cake." Which she never really did!

I'm going to suggest that the mods merge these threads.

I think the greasy dungeon-dweller is more suited to Potions Lessons. I would hate him to change his career.

Yea, if Snape were to have the DADA job, who would teach potions, and of Snape were to have it, then we wouldn't have a new teacher every year now would we?

Like it has been said before, I think Snape is better at potions, and I don't think he even wants to change. He seems rather proud of being the guy he makes the potions around Hogwarts.

Yes, but why would he want the DADA job if he was happy being a potions master?

Originally posted by hpangel102
Yes, but why would he want the DADA job if he was happy being a potions master?

I think it's just a rumour that he want the DADA job. He seems happy about being the potions master.

Then it was a rumur brought up many times.

edit: I found a quote from the fourth book:

"Snape's always been fascinated by the Dark Arts, he was famous for it at school. Slimy, oily, greasy-haired kid he was." -Sirius Black

So Snape really is fascinated with the Dark Arts, and he wants to be the DADA teacher because of that......

I've merged two threads into this one.

I think Snapes fascination with the Dark Arts probably ended when he left Voldemort's service.

And though we've heard several times that he wants the job, the people saying it have always been Gryffindor students! There's absolutely no evidence for the rumor except that the Gryffindors perpetuate it by telling each other about it.

Originally posted by dumbleedore
I think that whilst DD trusts Snape, he doesn't trust him enough to give him that job because of his background.

I basically agree. It's funny, because it's pretty obvious DD trusts Snape with his life, with Harry's life, with all their lives, if that's what it comes down to...but possibly not this?

Maybe DD thinks putting Snape in the DADA job would be like putting an alcoholic in charge of a bar (or pub, for all you Brits. ;) )

Hey, we have bars in Britain!

As I've said before, it's just a Gryffindor rumour that Snape wants the DADA job. It's a good point that the dungeons suit him - just had a vision of Snape teaching Divination or something...weird.

Actually, it is possible, but I think he never can be a real DADA teacher, but just sort of substitute...

Snape may also be hoping to become Headmaster someday, and it seems better to come fom a potions background than DADA. Also Snape is proud and gifted at potions. It may be his true calling, and the rumor--just that. Something the students spread among themselves without real confirmation. And Snape's character certainly adds weight to the rumor.

Originally posted by Fuchsia
I bet if I gave Dobby a pair of socks he'd slip it into his goblet.
"Mariel is so kind. Kinder than Dobby knew."
"yes yes could you put this into Snapes drink?"
*bangs head*

Hysterical!! I laughed aloud! Good idea! :clappy:

I agree with Inkwolf. The only person who has ever said that Snape wants to be the DADA teacher is Percy. Snape never makes any inclination that he is dissatisfied with Potions and would rather teach DADA. Snape thinks that wand waving and incantations are silly. I think he likes potions way to much to want to be the DADA teacher. Also if he really wanted the job, I am sure Dumbledore would give it to him.

For a guy who thinks that wand waving and incantations are silly he certainly seems to know what he is doing with one though. I would also like to point out that Dumbledore would most likely not give Snape the chance to blow his cover by making him teacher of DADA...

While I don't really think that Snape wants to teach DADA, I don't understand how it would blow his cover. Since he knows a lot of dark arts would it show him to be a bad guy, or since he is teaching how to defend them would it show him as a good guy? Regardless if someone is or is not a death eater, they go about their lives normally doing normal activities. So I don't see how being the DADA teacher would blow his cover.

I'm just confused about who it would reveal him to.

The only thing I can think of for this is being expected to teach kids the Dark Arts. But he'd still be expected to have an influence as head of house for Slytherin.

Quirrel was a useless DADA teacher, he served The Dark Lord by making the students think the class was a joke, which from all accounts, it was. If Snape (the Spy) was to take over the DADA job, is he meant to teach the class perfectly, telling the students all of the darkness they will face and how to overcome it (and anger voldemort, who would find out through the Malfoy's), or is he meant to all of a sudden become an incompetent teacher who doesnt know how to teach? Also a rather good way of exposing himself.

That being said, I dont think Snape wants to teach DADA either... :)

Alright, I got it now.

He wouldn't have to pretend to be incompetent. Unless they expect him to stop the kids from properly blocking spells. Lockhart did an incredible job of that.

His dilemna undercover would be whether or not to teach the Slytherin 6th and 7th years the serious dark arts. Not for defence but to use against fellow wizards.

I am of the persuasion that there is no cover for Snape to protect-for various reasons (which I realize is speculation, but still...), but thats a different thread.................
But I feel Snape wanting the DADA position is a rumor. Perhaps it had some fueling from comments back home made by parents who went to school with Snape, the kid who was fascinated by the Dark Arts and had an arsenal of hexes.

Yeah, the question is just that, if Snape really wanted that position, and if it's so hard to fill that they take vain wannabe wizars een though they clearly suspect that he knows nothing from the start, and takes old paranoid people out of retirement, wouldn't they have given Snape the job?

I don't think he really wants it either. He just dislikes the teachers, sometimes because of old grudges (like Lupin). Probably several teachers thought that Defence Against The Dark Arts was a proper subject, and potions just some lowely type of cooking. :)

I think this is something we may get to know in the future. We do get to know more and more about Snape each book, and he is complex. He is a typical Slytherin; but not typical enough to actually stay on the dark side, but to switch to the good side. Why did he dod that? Will we ever know? Hmmm....

I think that Snape wants the DADA job, just because there's others who say he wants it. And besides, it was him who subsituted for Lupin.

But my reason for him never getting the job: Perhaps this is some sort of secret that we'll learn about him. I mean, if he wants the bloody job so badly, why doesn't Dumbledore just GIVE it to him. He's been there for years. So Dumbledore might have a reason for not giving the job to him.

We'll just have to watch Snape.

I've said this before somewhere but here goes.
It's often said to never be too good or irreplaceable at your job if you want to be promoted or switch jobs within a company.
Who would teach potions if Snape taught DADA?

I really can't see Snape leaving his potions position, becuase like Weatherby who would be the potions master. I think that Snape is a master potion maker and that is probably what he is most qualified to teach, regardless if he knows dark arts too. Knowing dark arts and defending yourself againt them are two different things. And the new DADA teacher each year is like the running gag of the series. I don't see them ever having a permanent DADA teacher.

Hey

I'm new here, I don't know if anyone's asked this before, but why does Snape want the DADA job? And why doesn't he get it? He must know a great deal about the dark arts since he used to be a death eater. Surely there's someone else who could teach potions? It must be easier finding a good potions teacher than finding a good DADA teacher, esp since nobody want that job anymore, seeing as everyone only lasts a year. :??:

Is this the place to post this btw?

I've gotten the impression over the course of the books that Snape doesn't really want the DADA job as much as the students seem to think he does. The opinion he wants the job is based on his dislike of its occupants and Snape has had a reasonable explanation for his dislike of all four past DADA teachers. In SS/PS, Quirell was trying to steal the Sorcerer's Stone and Snape suspected him of it, in CoS, Lockhart was simply a fraud that everyone should have disliked, in PoA Snape had a grudge with Lupin from his childhood and also suspected him (wrongly) of letting Sirius Black into the castle, and finally in GoF, Snape was simply scared of Moody because of his status of loathing the Dark Arts. Therefore, I'm sure Snape would take the DADA job if offered it, but I don't think he is actively pursuing it. He simply dislikes the people that happen to hold that job.

I like what you have to say yellow, as the students do seem really interested, Percy even used this as a defining characteristic of Snape when he told him about Harry....but they started playing Musical DADA Teachers after HArry got there, I would assume that Quirell had been there for a while and if the stone had not come to Hogwarts before Harry did then there would be not reason to mistrust him...so why did Snape dislike him before...besides the fact that he seemed to be petrified of the dark arts, but Snape could have seen through this and known that Quirell knew alot about it...but then i seem to be answering my own question now....well, what do you think?

I tried replying, but it went all funny...don't know what happened so I'll try again!

What I tried to say was that it doesn't say anywhere in the book (at least not that I've seen) when Quirell started working as the DADA teacher, but it does say that he was once "brave", but he'd met a vamipre in albania or something and after that been afraid of his own shadow. Was it Vodelmort he met? I don't have the book here now, I just remember him saying that he met Voldemort while travelling. And it seemed like Quirell had been like that the whole time he'd been teaching. So if he'd been there for a while...why would snape hate him? Maybe Snape sorta sensed that Quirell wasn't a good guy?

Hey welcome!
There's an interesting thread about this here (http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1597). :)

I think Snape feels he's the most qualified for the position. He's been in the thick of things and knows what the students have to face.

I like Yellowhead's explaination. Maybe the reason all the students think that is because they've heard things from parents or something. Like maybe all the students aren't aware that Snape was a DE, but their parents must have some idea that he was. Maybe some students (or even just one, that's how a rumor starts) heard something from their parents and kind of "spread" the news.

Thanks for the welcome and the thread. I haven't really got into things here yet, searching for threads and stuff is still a bit advance for me ;) But I'll get there one day! I hope...

that makes since...but does he really want the job...cuz when he subed for lupin he didn't seem to be all cheery about having the job...I know he would have done things his own way...but he just seemed to taunt the kids more...or was that because harry was there?????

I'm sure you'll learn the ropes quickly. I'll merge this into the thread that Weatherby mentioned. :)

BTW! Elf Princess...I am right there with you...best wishes on getting to know everything! ;)

thanks, you too mme.ravenclaw! :)

thanks...I'll need it, my thread was just closed because it was repetative....:(

But I'll get it soon.....

This is also discussed in most of the Snape-related threads at one point or another. Try reading some of them. They are very interesting, whether you agree with them or not.

mme.ravenclaw, Snape probably did have a reason to dislike Quirell before he suspected him of stealing the Sorcerer's Stone. Quirell's defining characteristic seems to be book smarts and very little actual experience in his chosen field. That combination doesn't usually make for a really good teacher, especially in such a practical field as DADA. The students even claim that Quirell wasn't a very good teacher through their comments about Lupin being the first real DADA teacher they've had. Snape, however, has seen much of the Dark Arts and even participated in them in his time as a Death Eater. Given Snape's personality, he would have probably been upset that a person like Quirell would have the job over someone more qualified like himself.

It could be that Snape just despises incompetency in general. It would explain why he is such a terror to Neville.

I know this is totally off-topic, but when I read the title, my only thought was:

"Why would Snape be teaching dada-ism?"

This is what happens when you read too many art history books.

Now back to your regularly scheduled thread.

You weren't the only one Sredni, and I know practically nothing about dada-ism.

since the topic has shyed away from the topic...

I thought that too...

too many Art history courses indeed...

I'm one of those who don't believe that Snape really wants the Defense Against the Dark Arts job. He has to have some kind of interest in what he does, Potions, or why would he be so good at it?

I agree that Snape might not want the DADA job, but just to play devil's advocate a little; sometimes people are the best at the things they kind of like than they are at the things they are most passionate about.

He may be good at, even good enough to teach it, but it isn't his passion.

EDIT: search "DADA" and 3 or 4 more threads come up too.

Really, I always got the impression that it was because it was the closest he could get to the Dark Arts his real passion and that he satisfied himself with Potions because it requires high skill and analysis, smoe of his other talents.

Snape has lots of knowledge about the dark arts... he "knew more curses when he first arrived at Hogwarts than many students in their 7th yr" and he was a death eater. In the 2nd book (i think) Hagrid says that the reason that Lockhart got the dada job is because he was the only one for the job. Either Snape is just in love with teaching potions and has no interest in teaching dada or maybe Dumbledore wouldn't allow him to for one reason or another... hmm

Hmm. Thats right Hagrid did say that noone else wanted the job( How did I miss that, i just ready that part for the 5th time!). Are you trying to say that Dumbeldore may not trust Snape to teach DADA or are you thinking of some other reason? I am completely confident that Dumbledore has no doubts about Snape. Or else he would not let him teach at Hogwarts, let alone go on "secret missions". But some other reason could be interesting. Hmmm let me think about that one....

It'd almost be like giving an addict access to narcotics. He's not sure what the result will be. He trusts Moody because he knows Moody's philosophy but there are limits to his trust, even of the ones he sees as redeemed.

But why would Dumbledore obviously put so much trust in Someone teetering so close to the edge? Just teaching the subject would turn him back to the old ways? In that case why teach potions? Surely there is plenty "dark" potions?

He let him teach potions as a gesture of faith. And he does work with poisons. But Snape already bends the rules to the point of snapping them in half to favor his own students and his Potions is definitely a sinister environment. Maybe Dumbledore figures that this is the closest to the Dark Arts he's willing to let Snape tread.

I do not think there is much of a line between DADA and potions if the person is not on the up an up. Actually, in a sence DADA maybe safer for Dumbledore to let him teach. If he is up to no good it ould be easier to spot in DADA because the class netds to remain relativly "clean". In potions, "dark" activities could be explained a bit easier as part of the class. I think that dumbledore would be more wise and careful than to assign a job to someone on a act of faith.
Who in the book hasn't even broken/ obliterated a rule or two? even good old Dumbledore isn't above fish activities. How often does he go behind ( with the Ministry's blind eye or just as a act of defiance)the Ministry to do his own thing. The ciriuclum, staff appointments, freeing Sirius and buckbeak, convincing others in MOM Voldemort has returned....

As we all have seen Snape seems to have a natural knack for both the Dark Arts and Potion Making; though I don't think anything Snape has said about Potions ('subtle science, exact art') may underline his exact thoughts. What I would think is that either Snape wanted a good impression for his students so that they would respect them for his genius in Potions or he was really embittered while at school, leaving deep marks of insecurities within him, encouraging him to boast :).

Though, that said, Snape has never mentioned anything at all about the Dark Arts job - it maybe that he is embarrassed of the prospect of everyone knowing about something he likes (a secretive person like him would want to stay low-key) and/or he is hushing up, trying to dispel all those rumours about him wanting to take DADA. After all, if Dumbledore DID hold suspicion of him in taking DADA, I guess it might be a show of sincerity and abandonment of the DA's... though Dumbledore wouldn't be that stupid (but what about BC Jr?). Snape might not have wanted to take the DADA job in Harry's second year because he wished not to reveal his weakness in his passion in wanting to teach DADA.

Harp gotta disagree here. Look at the license that Dumbledore is willing to give the ones he trusts with DADA. The chance to use Unforgivables in the classroom and more. Lots of complicated hexing etc. to keep the students working on their shields. Too much of a temptation for Severus.

This is how I look at it. Snape is very defensive about the fact that Dumbledore trusts him so much. As bitter as Snape is, Snape would not care that much if Dumbledore did not trust him completely. If Dumbledore did not trust Snape completely, Snape would know it.
I am rethinking this issue a bit. I believe Dumbledore completely trusts Snape but imperator has a point, maybe Snape (if he wants the job) views it a as weakness to want the job. Maybe Snape does not trust himself.

Yeah I agree with harp in the fact that DD definitly trusts Snape, why else would he even let him teach? And Snape, however tempting it may be, would never actually curse a student. Just like he'd never poison one no matter how much he threatened them.

I'm not completely convinced on that. If he were in his Sirius-rage he'd be quite capable of either. Just as he was capable of throttling Harry in front of two very important witnesses, Dumbledore and Fudge.

I wouldn't go as far to say that he wouldn't curse or poison a student( he would just make sure it was to scare them and not "really" harm them). It is just more that he would not be involved in any activities with the DE's. For his own satisifaction, he just might curse or poison someone.

Back on topic, I think the most compelling evidence suggesting that Snape doesn't want the DADA position, or at least doesn't know much about DADA, was his Kappas lesson in PoA.

Certainly someone who was rather keen on DADA would know basic facts about the subject like where the Kappa originates?

I'm not entirely convinced he does want the position, personally.

I dont think he really wants the job

Originally posted by Rowena Ravenclaw (original post (http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?postid=58638#post58638))
I'd agree with the former Death Eater thing. Dumbledore's probably afraid Snape would be too tempted to start ignoring the "defense" aspect.

It wouldn't surprise me at all if he got the post by Harry's seventh year, though. Eventually, Dumbledore will probably decide Snape's ability to prepare the students to face the current Death Eaters outweighs the risk.


I’m thinking along similar lines as Rowena.

What if Snape wants to teach DADA because he knows of so many ways to fight the evil minions of Voldemort, as well as the strategies and tactics they like to use.

DD is hesitant to let Snape teach this content because:

One, it might not be Ministry - or Board of Governors - approved curriculum content.

Two, it would show too much of the evil and malice that other witches and wizards are capable of, and DD wants to protect the students from that. After all, some of the students are still children, and even the older ones don’t quite generally qualify as adults. They've all grown up in a relatively safe era, one without the terror and violence that was a constant presence during the last war with Voldemort. Perhaps DD wants to protect this young generation for as long as possible.

Three, Snape’s identity as a former death eater would be exposed (otherwise, how could he know all this stuff?) DD doesn’t want the public to know because some might be discriminating against Snape’s past, and try to get him removed from the teaching staff by discrediting his morals and motives. DD is, in a way, also trying to protect Snape.

I think that this is why he wants the DADA job, because he doesn't think that the other teachers can do as good a job as he can. They can't teach the stuff that he wants to teach. What they teach is insignificant and impractical. I'm not saying that is the case, just that that is possibly what Snape is thinking.

Just a point- here's a quote from an Alan Rickman interview, as Rickman talks about the character he plays:

Well he's Professor of Potions and the current head of Slytherin House at Hogwarts - the school of wizardry that Harry attends, but he harbours a secret ambition to be a Professor of the Dark Arts.

(Here's the source: http://www.unreel.co.uk/features/featurealanrickman.cfm )

Rickman himself may not even know; he could be just assuming that. Although, we know JK has given extra details about the books to the cast and crew of the HP movies.

Personally, I like the idea that Snape really doesn't want that job- he may just have hated all the teachers hat occupied it for unrelated reasons. (Quirrel, Lockhart, Lupin, Moody[as Crouch..].. I can think of many reasons why he would dislike these people :) )

I think he will be in the end, possibly in the 7th book. The fact that Snape wants the job and is interested in the Dark Acts has been covered in every book (if I'm not mistaken) so it's obviously important.

I just know there's going to be more baggage to come with Snape and I believe that he will have a crucial role in OOTP due to what DD asks him to do at the end.

Originally posted by kgonekrazy (original post (http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?postid=42357#post42357))
I don't think we will see Snape as DADA teacher. I think that the rumor that he wants the job is just a rumor. He likes his potions way to much to give up teaching the class. "You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion making... ... I don't expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses..." -SS/PS These words are spoken by a man who love his subject not someone who is waiting for a better post to open up.


I must agree with kgonekrazy. Snape may have all the knowledge needed to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts, but he prefers to teach his "subtle science and exact art" that is Potions making.

Aw, thanks a lot Liv! I had a great idea formulating in my head until you posted that quote by Rickman (j/k - I'm not really angry :p ):
"Well he's Professor of Potions and the current head of Slytherin House at Hogwarts - the school of wizardry that Harry attends, but he harbours a secret ambition to be a Professor of the Dark Arts."
But, maybe JK didn't tell Rickman everything about Snape. Or I guess Snape could really want to be the DADA professor. *shrugs* Just out of curiosity, who else did JK tell 'secrets' too? The only people that I've heard of are Rickman and what's-his-name the screenwriter.

Anywho, before I forget it, my theory was that Snape doesn't really want the position, but it was just a rumor based on the fact that he was really into the Dark Arts in his school days and DE days. If Snape really wanted the position, Dumbledore would give it to him. I don't agree that it would be too tempting for him (being an ex-Death Eater), since he would be teaching Defense AGAINST the Dark Arts, not the Dark Arts.

---
**edit**
okay, after thinking it over a bit, I think my theory does make sense after all. :)
---

Actually, in movie Percy says, "He teaches Potions, but everybody knows it's the Dark Arts he fancies." Rickman may have gotten his idea from that.

I think even though he'd be a good DADA teacher, he loves his potions, that's where his passion lies!

I would think that Snape would be the best teacher for the job since he is best suited. Think about it, he has actually been with the dark forces so he has some sort of idea of what they are up against, he (according to sirius or lupin) knew more curses than most seventh years when he was quite young, and he is evidently quite a powerful wizard compared to most.

Given, I do think that potions are his favorite, but I bet he wants to teach the DADA because he actually wants to help the students defend themselves. Perhaps he knew Voldemort was going to regain power and wanted the job early on but never got it? Problem is, I think somewhere in the books it was stated that in the second year lockhart was only hired because there was no other applicants; that definitely goes in favor of snape's wanting to be the DADA to just a rumor. I guess we'll find out though. I really hope that we eventually get to see him as the DADA teacher later on!

Yeah, like I said, even though I don't think he wants it, I think it'd be really cool to see him as DADA teacher, but then who'd take care of potions?

if snape took defence against the dark arts, it would just be dark arts, if you catch my drift. yeah, he's had experience, but from the wrong side. i think thats y DD wont give him the position,becos of his shady past.

OK I've got a different twist on this theory. What if the reason that Snape hasn't gotten the DADA job, assuming for the moment that he really does want the job, is because he isn't psycholigically able to handle it.

Now hear me out. DADA is kind of like a martial arts class with the teacher being similar to a weapons master. Snape loves his potions, and based on his speech, is passionate about them.

If Snape is as passionate about DADA as he is about potions, then to lose a student might just hurt him psychologically. after all if a former student dies later on Snape could drive himself nuts over what he might have done wrong or what he could have done differently to better prepare that student.

DADA is to prepare a student to combat and defend themselves against evil. A martial arts teacher prepares his students to participate in mundane battles but they are battles just the same and people (at least in the old days) got killed in these battles.

What I'm getting at is that maybe Snape would have a difficult time handling the possiblility of the death of a present or former student. or more than one student. That passion of his could go both ways.

Remember I'm running under the theory that Snape really wants the job. I'm not totally convinced he does. Think about it other than Moody/Crouch Jr, and Lupin, the other two teachers have been total losers. I think it would have been easier to find a teacher for potions than to find a teacher for a "jinxed" DADA position.

interesting theory, but that means snape has to have a heart ;)

Oh, but he does have a heart ... I think.

Anyway, I don't think he wants the DADA position. I think he is just suspicious of all of them. The first two were well, um, bad at DADA. Quirrel couldn't resist Voldermort and Lockhart was inept. After those two, I just assumed Lupin was going to be bad news (I hate to admit it). And Snape didn't think Lupin could be trusted either. And Moody wasn't really Moody, and anyway everyone thought Moody was senile or something. I mean, the position just hasn't had the best history of teachers to fulfill it (at least in Snape's view, because we all know Lupin is good). I think he's weariness of the DADA teachers make it appear he wants the job.

Originally posted by Shells Bells (original post (http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?postid=342254#post342254))
OK I've got a different twist on this theory. What if the reason that Snape hasn't gotten the DADA job, assuming for the moment that he really does want the job, is because he isn't psycholigically able to handle it.

Now hear me out. DADA is kind of like a martial arts class with the teacher being similar to a weapons master. Snape loves his potions, and based on his speech, is passionate about them.

If Snape is as passionate about DADA as he is about potions, then to lose a student might just hurt him psychologically. after all if a former student dies later on Snape could drive himself nuts over what he might have done wrong or what he could have done differently to better prepare that student.

DADA is to prepare a student to combat and defend themselves against evil. A martial arts teacher prepares his students to participate in mundane battles but they are battles just the same and people (at least in the old days) got killed in these battles.

What I'm getting at is that maybe Snape would have a difficult time handling the possiblility of the death of a present or former student. or more than one student. That passion of his could go both ways.

Remember I'm running under the theory that Snape really wants the job. I'm not totally convinced he does. Think about it other than Moody/Crouch Jr, and Lupin, the other two teachers have been total losers. I think it would have been easier to find a teacher for potions than to find a teacher for a "jinxed" DADA position.


Oooh that is a really good take on things, I see what you mean!


interesting theory, but that means snape has to have a heart


:( Aww but of course he does! He just has a unique was of showing it.

Hi,
he is capable enough teaching DADA (I´m convinced he is) but it is quite possible he doesn´t want the position at all. Maybe he cannot not be Master Of Slytherin House (which seems to me it is really "HIS" house and important for him in a very personal way) and beeing DADA teacher at the same time? Maybe this is simply NOT allowed, who knows? Just an idea.

Snape has a heart, after all, he did, save Harry in the first book when Quirrel was jinxing Harry's broom during the quiddich match.

Snape is tough, he doesn't take any guff from anyone. I think that part of this toughness might be a cover. Just like McGonnagall. She's tough as nails too, but she still has a kinder side. She could have expelled Harry the first day of flying practice, instead she made him seeker for the Gryffindor team.

I think that Snape has this same capability. He's gone from voldies team to DD's team. He's got to be covering his backside. after all, the Slytherin students could rat him out to their parents if he acted any way other than totally gung-ho Slytherin.

Heaven forbid, Snape be seen showing the least amount of concern for Harry. Draco and crew would be sending owls home to mommy and daddy dearest so fast our heads would spin. :grumble:

LOL shells bells. :) i can see it now.
Dear mummy, professor snape actually smiled today. We are all becoming seriously worried that he might have a decent streak....
aw.....i love snape :)

I think it's just a rumour that originated from the fact that he knows a lot about the Dark Arts. He enjoys his Potions too much to give it up ;)