*   The disgraced heir of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black, ran away to the Potters' home at 16.
*   His brother, Regulus, is the "perfect" Slytherin son.
*   Became an unregistered Animagus (a large, black dog) at 15 to accompany his friend Remus Lupin during his monthly transformations.
*   Views James Potter as his true brother.
*   Is secretly, deeply in love with his best friend, Remus Lupin, a truth he cannot admit to himself or anyone in the prejudiced wizarding society.