The idea of Severus Snape saving baby Harry Potter in fanfiction is really fascinating. It gives authors the chance to explore a lot of uncharted territory. Snape, who was so conflicted in the original books, can be shown as more of a hero in this scenario. It can also change the whole Hogwarts experience for Harry. Instead of the initial hostility between them, there could be a sense of respect or even a mentorship. And it might even affect the relationships Harry has with other characters, like the way he views the Slytherin house.
In the canon story, Snape has a very complex and often antagonistic relationship with Harry. But in fanfictions where he saves baby Harry, it's a huge departure. Here, Snape starts off as a protector, which is completely different from his role in the books where he seems to begrudgingly help Harry at times. It also changes the power dynamics as Harry may grow up with a sense of debt or gratitude towards Snape, rather than the suspicion and dislike he had in the original.
In these fanfictions, Snape's character often develops from a seemingly cold and unfeeling person to someone with more depth. When he saves Harry, it starts to chip away at his facade. For example, he might initially save Harry out of obligation but as time goes on, he realizes he has a genuine care for the boy. This is different from his canon behavior where his feelings are mostly hidden.
One good example could be a fanfiction where Snape saves Harry from a dark wizard's attack during the Triwizard Tournament. In this fic, Snape might have been secretly following Harry out of his sense of duty to protect him. Another could be a story where Snape saves Harry from a dangerous potion experiment gone wrong in the Potions classroom. He uses his extensive knowledge of potions to counteract the harmful effects.
Well, in these fanfictions, the theme of unexpected relationships is quite common. Snape and Harry having a father - son like relationship is something that was not in the original series. Also, the theme of hope is there. Despite all the difficulties and the dark world they live in, the presence of baby Harry gives Snape hope for a better future. And then there is the theme of self - discovery. Snape discovers new aspects of himself as he takes on the role of a caregiver for Harry.
A lot of fanfic writers will create unique storylines for Snape's courtship. They might introduce an original character who manages to break through Snape's tough exterior. His courtship would then involve him struggling with his own insecurities and his reputation. This character might see the good in him that others overlook. There could be moments of tension and misunderstanding, but also deep, meaningful conversations as they get to know each other better.
Often in fanfiction, the ring can be a plot device. It could be that Harry Potter unknowingly has a connection to the ring, and Severus Snape has to keep it from falling into the wrong hands. This creates a situation where Snape has to protect both Harry and the ring, leading to some tense and interesting storylines.
One common theme is redemption. Snape's actions to save Harry are often seen as a way for him to atone for his past mistakes or his association with the Death Eaters. It gives him a chance to be a hero in his own right.
If Severus Snape adopted baby Harry Potter in fanfiction, it would completely transform the story. Firstly, Harry would grow up in a very different environment. Snape, being a strict and complex character, would likely raise Harry with high expectations in academics, especially in Potions. Harry might become more introverted under Snape's influence as Snape isn't the most sociable person. Also, Snape's knowledge of the Dark Arts could either protect Harry better or put him in more danger, depending on how Snape chose to use it in Harry's upbringing. The relationship with the other characters would be different too. For example, Harry's relationship with the Weasleys might not be as strong as in the original story since he would be growing up in a more isolated environment with Snape.
One popular 'Severus Snape has baby Harry Potter' fanfiction is 'A Different Beginning'. It explores an alternate universe where Snape discovers a baby Harry and decides to raise him secretly. It has interesting character development as we see Snape's softer side emerge while dealing with the challenges of raising a child.