The theme of redemption also often appears. Harry may try to redeem the Slytherin house from its negative reputation. He could start by changing the attitudes of his abusers or by showing the rest of Hogwarts that Slytherin can be a place of good as well. This often involves Harry growing as a character and showing great leadership skills.
Survival is another theme. With the abuse he faces, Harry has to find ways to survive both physically and mentally. This could involve learning self - defense spells or finding emotional support from a few kind souls. In some fanfictions, his survival instincts lead him to form unexpected alliances within the Slytherin house itself.
One common theme is the struggle for acceptance. Harry, being in Slytherin where he is abused, has to fight to be accepted not only by his housemates but also by others in Hogwarts. For example, in many such fanfictions, he has to prove that just because he's in Slytherin doesn't mean he's like the abusers.
One common theme is redemption. Harry, having been abused, often finds a way to redeem himself or be redeemed in the eyes of others through his actions in Slytherin. Another theme is identity. He has to grapple with his new identity as a Slytherin, which is different from the typical Gryffindor image of him.
One common theme is the struggle against prejudice. Since Slytherin has a reputation for being the 'evil' house, Harry often has to fight against the preconceived notions of others. For example, in many fanfictions, the Gryffindors are initially suspicious of Harry being in Slytherin.
One common theme is redemption. Harry often has to prove himself to the Slytherins who abuse him, and in the process, some of his abusers might see the error of their ways. Another theme is resilience. Harry endures the abuse and grows stronger from it, showing his Gryffindor - like courage even while in Slytherin.
One common theme is the idea of isolation. Since Harry is cold and in Slytherin, he often isolates himself from others, whether it's his old Gryffindor friends or new Slytherin acquaintances. Another theme is redemption. His coldness might be seen as a negative trait at first, but as the story progresses, he might start to show more warmth and redeem himself in the eyes of others.
Friendship and loyalty are also big themes. A female Harry in Slytherin has to find true friends within the house. Sometimes, she might have to break through the barriers of Slytherin's traditional cliques to find those who will be loyal to her, and in turn, she has to show her loyalty in unique ways, different from how the male Harry showed loyalty in Gryffindor.
One common theme is the struggle for acceptance. Harry, being in Slytherin where he might not be initially welcomed, has to fight for his place. And the abuse he faces adds to that struggle. Another theme is redemption. The romantic relationship can be a source of redemption for both Harry and the other character involved. For example, the Slytherin love interest might have their own issues and together they find a way to heal.
One common theme is redemption. Since Slytherin has a somewhat dark reputation, the descendants often have to prove that they are not evil. For example, they might fight against dark wizards to show that they are on the side of good. Another theme is identity. Discovering they are a Slytherin descendant makes them question who they are and how they should act.
One common theme is the idea of overcoming house rivalries. Since Gryffindor and Slytherin are often at odds in the Harry Potter world, their relationship has to navigate that. Another theme is acceptance. Harry has to accept his boyfriend's Slytherin nature, and the boyfriend has to accept Harry's role in the wizarding world. Also, secrecy is often a theme as they may need to keep their relationship hidden from others who may not understand.
Often, the story starts with Harry being sorted into Slytherin, which is a shock to everyone. Then the abuse begins, it could be from older Slytherin students or even some of the professors who have biases. As the story progresses, Harry has to learn to use his wits, which is a Slytherin trait, to fight back against the abuse. He might also have to deal with his own internal struggle of feeling like he doesn't belong in this house but still trying to make the best of it.
One common theme is the exploration of a different Hogwarts experience for Harry. Since Slytherin has a different reputation than Gryffindor, Harry might face different challenges and prejudices. Another theme could be the discovery of a hidden Slytherin heritage, which might involve uncovering long - lost family secrets.