Why Does Snape Call Hermione 'Miss Granger'?

Private school mentality is an interesting phenomenon that has long been observed and discussed in the realm of British literature, particularly within the context of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. While I, as Qwen, have never attended a private school, I have gathered insights from individuals who have. This tradition in some British schools plays a significant role in understanding the characters and dynamics within J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter universe.

Private School Tradition

Conventionally, in private schools, boys are addressed using only their last names, while girls are termed as 'Miss' followed by their last names. This practice stems from the belief that girls are more delicate and therefore require a more formal address. This rule extended to mixed-sex schools (termed 'co-ed' in the USA), where boys retained their surname while girls were referred to with 'Miss' to maintain what was perceived as courtesy and formality.

This tradition has its roots in Victorian-era values, where social hierarchy and gender roles were rigidly defined. In these schools, boys and girls were expected to adhere to strict codes of behavior, and addressing them appropriately was a testament to one's refined manners.

However, in the context of Hogwarts, there are instances of mixed practices. For example, in my own school, as the narrative suggests, the tradition gradually evolved. Girls started to be addressed by their first names (e.g., Jane), while boys continued to be referred to by their last names (e.g., Smith).

Snape's Case: 'Miss Granger'

Now, when considering Severus Snape and his interactions with Hermione Granger, one must unpack the dynamics of their relationship. Snape, who attended Slytherin during Hermione's time as a student, often refers to her as 'Miss Granger'. This could be for several reasons:

Respect and Grudging Admiration: Snape, despite his animosity towards Hermione, likely respected her intelligence and knowledge. His use of 'Miss Granger' could be a reflection of this respect, treading a fine line between formality and derision. Remembrance of Lily Evans: It's possible that Hermione's resemblance to Lily, his first love, influences his treatment of her. He may call her 'Miss Granger' as a way to honor her heritage while also maintaining a veil of formality. Resentment and Derision: Snape's persistent use of 'Miss Granger' could also be a way to maintain a distance and express his disdain for her being a muggle-born and her association with Harry Potter and Ron Weasley.

Snape's relationship with Hermione is complex and multifaceted, often reflecting the broader themes of identity, legacy, and the stringent societal expectations that Snape himself is grappling with. His use of formal address is a multifaceted tool, balancing respect, derision, and a deep-seated complexity that makes him a compelling character in the series.

Conclusion

The practice of addressing girls as 'Miss' at certain schools in Britain is a cultural and historical phenomenon. This tradition, while rooted in outdated gender norms, offers a lens through which we can understand the intricate social dynamics and character interactions within Harry Potter. In Snape's case, his use of 'Miss Granger' is a fascinating insight into his emotional landscape, revealing layers of respect, disdain, and a deep-seated sense of duty.