A lot of 'Snape x Draco' fanfics have the theme of redemption. Draco, having been on the wrong side in the main story, can find redemption through his relationship with Snape. And Snape, who has his own dark past, can also find a form of redemption in guiding Draco towards a better path. There's also the theme of secrecy, as their relationship, if it goes beyond the normal boundaries, would have to be kept secret in the strict Hogwarts environment.
One common theme is mentorship turned into something deeper. Snape is often Draco's teacher or mentor, and the fanfics explore how that relationship can evolve into a more emotional and complex bond. Another theme is protection. Snape is usually seen as protecting Draco in different situations, whether it's from other students or more dangerous threats within the wizarding world.
The theme of self - discovery is also quite common. Both Snape and Draco are complex characters. Through their relationship in the fanfics, they often discover new sides of themselves. Draco may discover his capacity for good and Snape may discover that he can have a more positive impact on someone's life than he initially thought. Also, the theme of loyalty is present, as they develop a loyalty to each other that is different from the loyalties they have in the original story.
One common theme is mentorship evolving into something deeper. Snape is often Draco's teacher or mentor, and over time, their relationship transcends the typical boundaries. Another theme is the idea of finding solace in an unexpected person. In the world of Hogwarts, where they both face various pressures, they find comfort in each other.
A major theme is the exploration of complex relationships. Given their very different backgrounds and personalities, seeing how they interact and form relationships is fascinating. Also, the theme of self - discovery is common. Each character discovers new things about themselves through their interactions with the other two. For example, Draco might discover that he doesn't have to be defined by his family's past actions, Snape might find new purpose, and Harry might understand more about the gray areas of the wizarding world.
One common theme is redemption. Given Snape's complex past and Draco's actions during the wizarding war, there's often a theme of them finding redemption through their relationships with Harry. Another theme is the exploration of forbidden or unexpected relationships. The three characters have had a lot of animosity in the original story, so fanfictions often play with the idea of how they can overcome that and form a unique bond.
The theme of trust also comes up a lot. Given their history in the original story, building trust between Snape and Harry is a big part of many fanfics. They start off distrusting each other, but as the story progresses, they learn to rely on one another, which is a really appealing aspect of these fanfics.
Redemption is also often seen. Harry, in the role of a slave, might be in a position where he has to 'forgive' Draco for past wrongs, and Draco may be on a journey to redeem himself through his relationship with Harry. It adds depth to their relationship.
Love against all odds is also a popular theme. Given Draco's family background and his initial allegiance in the 'Harry Potter' story, a relationship with an OC would face many difficulties. Fanfics often explore how they overcome these obstacles, like dealing with the disapproval of his family or the differences in their social status within the wizarding world. Additionally, friendship is a key theme. Before any romantic feelings develop, they might start as friends or at least form an unusual alliance, which then paves the way for a deeper relationship.
The theme of secrecy also pops up a lot. Given Snape's double - agent role in the original story and Draco's own secrets, fanfictions might explore how they keep secrets from others or share secrets with each other, which can add a lot of tension and mystery to the plot.
Another theme could be redemption. Snape has a complex past, and fanfics may show how Hermione's presence in his life could lead to some form of redemption for him, or vice versa. They could help each other grow as characters through understanding and forgiveness.
One common theme is the idea of defying expectations. Since Draco is from a Slytherin family and Lily is associated with the good side, their relationship challenges the typical Hogwarts house divides. Another theme is self - discovery, as they both learn new things about themselves through their relationship.
One common theme is redemption. Draco, having the Dark Mark, may be on a path of redemption which Harry can influence. Another is the power struggle. The Dark Mark represents dark magic power, and their relationship might be affected by this power dynamic.