The role reversal is a big part. We're so used to seeing Snape as the strict teacher and Harry as the student. So when Harry is the master and Snape is the slave, it's a complete turnaround. It allows for new interpretations of their characters and their relationship.
In these fanfictions, it often leads to a deep exploration of the characters' personalities. Harry has to learn how to be in a position of authority, which is a far cry from his usual self. Snape, on the other hand, has to deal with being subservient, which clashes with his proud nature. This clash and the subsequent character development make the fanfictions fascinating.
The mystery. Snape was such a mysterious character in the original series. When he becomes a ghost in fanfiction, that mystery deepens. His past actions, his unrequited love for Lily, all add layers to his ghostly existence.
Another reason is that it can fill in the gaps of the original story. We didn't get to see much of Snape's softer side towards Harry in the books. Fan fiction in this vein can show Snape's growth as a person who can love and care for Harry like a father, which is a very different and exciting take on the well - known characters.
The mystery around it. Occlumency in Snape fanfiction is often used to explore the hidden parts of his mind. Since Snape is such a complex character, occlumency gives writers a tool to dig deeper into his thoughts and feelings that he usually keeps concealed.
I remember reading 'A New Dynamic' which is a great 'Master Harry Slave Snape' fanfiction. It really plays on the idea of them being in such opposite roles. Harry's character growth as he tries to handle Snape in this new relationship is really well - written, and Snape's begrudging acceptance of his situation makes for an engaging read.
Severus Snape's childhood fanfiction is fascinating because it fills in the gaps in his backstory. We know he had a difficult childhood, and these fictions explore it further. For example, they might show his first experiences with magic in more detail.
At first, the relationship might be filled with tension. Harry would be resentful of being in a slave - like position to Snape. But as time goes on, he realizes that Snape has a depth of knowledge and a hidden agenda that might not be as bad as he initially thought. Snape, on the other hand, might start to see Harry not just as a tool or a burden, but as someone with potential that he can shape in his own way.
Another reason is the connection it creates. By exploring Harry's ancestry, we can better understand his place in the wizarding world. It also allows for crossovers with other wizarding families, like the Weasleys or the Malfoys, making for really engaging stories.
The popularity of Harry and Snape fanfiction lies in the complex relationship they have in the original series. They start off as enemies, with Snape being quite harsh to Harry. This initial animosity provides a lot of room for fanfiction writers to explore how they could overcome their differences. It's like a challenge to transform a hostile relationship into something positive, like friendship or even a mentor - mentee relationship.
One interesting plot twist could be that Snape's 'mastery' over Harry is actually a ruse to protect him from a greater evil. Snape, in his complex way, is using this guise to keep Harry close and train him in secret arts that Dumbledore didn't have the time or the nerve to teach Harry. This would turn the whole master - slave dynamic on its head and show Snape's true loyalty to Harry and the cause against Voldemort.
The contrast. Harry Potter is from a very different magical world than Valyria. So when you have a fem Harry Potter in Valyria, it's like putting a fish out of water in a new and exciting pond. Her different values and skills from the original Harry Potter series clash and blend with the Valyrian culture in interesting ways.