Introduction

The complex relationship between Severus Snape and Remus Lupin has been a source of endless speculation in the Harry Potter series. One critical question that often arises is, did Snape know about Lupin's werewolf status during their time at Hogwarts? This article delves into the events and evidence provided by the canon to determine if Snape's knowledge can be established.

Snape's First-Ever Knowledge of Lupin’s Condition

From the canon, it is clear that Severus Snape learned about Remus Lupin's werewolf status around the same time the Marauders did. The Marauders discovered this information around the time they became Animagi, which they did to assist Lupin in managing his condition. However, there is no explicit mention of Lupin having an Animagus form. Instead, the Marauders likely took on forms like a stag, a dog, and an owl to aid Lupin in an early werewolf transformation.

Consequences of Snape's Discovery

Snape's discovery of Lupin's condition nearly resulted in his death. This event is famously referenced in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, where Sirius Black thought it would be "funny" to steer Snape towards Lupin. Fortunately, James Potter intervened in time to save Snape, which undoubtedly contributed to Snape's deep-seated hatred towards James. The incident underscores the delicate and potentially toxic dynamics between Snape and the Marauders.

Snape's Lack of Involvement in Lupin's Inner Circle

Some argue that Snape, being in a different house, did not actively seek to understand Lupin's inner circle. Snape was indeed a profound and intelligent individual, and it's reasonable to assume he could deduce something was amiss through subtle clues. However, he may not have had a specific or malicious intent to investigate Lupin's condition further at that stage.

Significant Evidence: The Whomping Willow Incident

Strong evidence suggests that Snape knew about Lupin's condition before the Whomping Willow incident. The canon indicates that Snape was stalking the Marauders and noticed Madam Pomfrey leading Lupin away. Observing that Lupin and the Marauders disappeared regularly on full moons, it’s evident that Snape could discern the pattern. Moreover, the Whomping Willow incident, while significant, occurred only a few nights after Snape’s initial deductions. This timeline would not be enough for Lily Evans to become exasperated with Snape's "theory," given her strong friendship with him long before the events of the Courtyard scene.

Conclusion

The evidence from the canon points towards Snape's knowledge of Lupin's werewolf status, likely discovered through his stalking and observation of Lupin’s routine. While Snape did not actively investigate for nefarious reasons, his knowledge deepened over time, contributing to complex and strained relationships within the Harry Potter universe. This understanding provides a clearer perspective on Snape's character and his interactions with key figures like Remus Lupin.