Severus Snape According to Myers-Briggs
I've also had a big interest in Myers-Briggs when it comes to storytelling and character building.
I like to believe Severus is an INTJ because they are often the misunderstood personality type and often seen as the "villains" out of the rest of the other types. In fact, most "villain" characters are this type. They are private, creative, and analytical, but this doesn't mean they don't have emotions. Their emotions are often VERY deep and complex as they keep it to themselves, which I think is very accurate to Severus, along with the fact he is a genius at potions and creating his own spells. Plus they can come off as having poor interpersonal skills to others.
And while on the topic of Myers-Briggs and other characters...I've also typed Lily as being an ENFP. ENFP's are described as: "These people tend to embrace big ideas and actions that reflect their sense of hope and goodwill toward others. Their vibrant energy can flow in many directions." From how Lily has been described to us by others in the books, I thought it only fitting. ENFP's are known as the type that's get along well with any other types. They are charming, bubbly, out-going, open-hearted, and free-spirited. They love deep connections and helping others and pretty much follow their hearts. It all screams Lily to me, at least when it comes to how she was described by everyone else.
I think it also has to do with the fact that INTJ's and ENFP's are usually seen as a good match for each other...as long as there is good communication (and we know that is where the problem began for Sev and Lily in their friendship. But this part is just my Snily heart speaking. XD)
I know Snape is commonly typed as an INTJ, and for the film version of the character, I believe this to be accurate. However, I think book Snape more closely resembles an INTP. Michael Pierce's description of the INTP, from his book Motes and Beams, matches Severus quite well in my opinion, while this article from Personality Hacker highlights the differences between INTPs and INTJs in a manner that makes me quite certain in my belief that INTP is the better fit for book Snape.
INTP vs INTJ: 5 Ways to Truly Tell Them Apart – Personality Hacker
Please bear in mind that these descriptions are based on Jungian typology, which is really quite different from, and rather more complicated than, the Big Five-inspired system used by 16personalities.com, and, in my opinion, all the more fascinating.
I'm INTJ and I've interacted with a LOT of INTPs and I'd definitely go with INTP for Snape. He ticks a lot of boxes for both, but (in my opinion) far more for INTP. Especially as INTJs will internally combust emotionally, but not show it. Whereas INTP will occasionally snap and have a bit of a tantrum, which Snape does. He doesn't have a 'robotic' outer self to fit INTJ.
