H1: Understanding Voldemort's Strategic Use of the DADA Position

In the Hogwarts) series, the decision by dark lord Voldemort to have Severus Snape teach Defense Against the Dark Arts (DADA) is a complex plot device that serves a multi-faceted strategic purpose. This article delves into why Voldemort made such a choice, examining the intricacies of his plans and the significance of various elements such as the Dark Mark and Snape's background.

H2: The Dark Mark and Its Role in Loyalty Maintenance

Voldemort, known for his meticulous and strategic nature, would not have assigned a position so crucial as the DADA teacher to an individual without a specific plan. The Dark Mark, used to summon and control his Death Eaters, was a key tool he employed. However, the specific curse placed on the DADA position was likely not intended to affect his loyal followers directly. Instead, it served as a means to control and manipulate those who were not fully committed to his cause.

H3: The Ambitious and Ambiguous Ambition of Severus Snape

Severus Snape was a complex character, driven by a multitude of emotions and loyalties. Though he had a low social status and was a talented Occlumens and Legilimens, Voldemort still saw him as a valuable asset. Snape was an ideal candidate for the position because of his skills and ambition, as well as his background. Sending a young, ambitious and talented wizard with a muggle background to spy on Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts, was an insightful move. Snape's role as the new recruit was intended to blend in, gather crucial information, and maintain a facade of loyalty.

H3: Snape's Controversial Acceptance of the DADA Position

Despite his true passion lying in Potions, Snape's continued applications for the DADA position were a strategic move. Every year, he submitted an application to Dumbledore, leading to the public impression that Snape and Dumbledore had a strained relationship. This created a well-documented impression within the magical world that Snape was not entirely on Dumbledore's side. This perception was further reinforced when Aireson Lupin kindly invited Snape to teach for him during his absence. Snape, adhering to the legend he maintained, reluctantly accepted the lesson on Kappas, Hinkypunks, and Grindylows— topics he had no interest in and had never been interested in.

H2: The Implications and Stratagems

Both Dumbledore and Snape likely did not know the exact impact of the curse on loyal followers. The death of Quirrell was a significant clue, but Snape had already been teaching and applying for the post for eleven years by that point. They recognized the possibility that the curse might affect loyalists and strategically chose the DADA position because it was a specific instruction from Voldemort. Had Snape never applied for the DADA post, the risk would have appeared greater that Voldemort might suspect Snape of betrayal.

H3: Conclusion: A Dance of Disguise and Loyalty

Voldemort's strategic use of the DADA position and the Dark Mark was a master class in maintaining control and disguise. Through Snape, he achieved both a spy and a fig leaf, creating a facade of conflict with Dumbledore while ensuring Snape's continued loyalty. This intricate game of strategy underscores the depth of Voldemort's plans and the complex nature of Snape's role in the series.