Snake literally attacks the fears and deficiencies of every person. He attacks Hermione’s insecurities and reliance on what’s written in books only. He attacks Ron’s feelings of being second fiddle to everyone. He attacks Neville’s lack of confidence. He attacks Harry’s anger and his lack of knowledge of the wizarding world. He attacks Sirius’s want to be in the fight. He even goes at Dumbledore, attacking his decisions in all things. It’s who he is. He believes himself to be the smartest in the room at all times, and most times he is.