Reactions of Sirius Black's Family After His Sorting into Gryffindor
When Sirius Black was sorted into Gryffindor at Hogwarts, it was a significant moment not only for him but also for his family. Different perspectives on this event can be observed, reflecting the complex interplay of family pride, expectations, and individual choices.
Surprised and Ultimately Supportive
Many believe that Sirius's family was initially surprised by his placement in Gryffindor. The Sorting Hat often takes a while to decide a student's house, and for Sirius, his unique situation and the occasional political complications likely added to this process. Despite their surprise, it is widely speculated that Sirius's family ultimately showed support for his choice. Given the strong sense of family loyalty among the Blacks, this unity is not surprising. Gryffindor, being an honorable house, provided a safe and supportive environment for Sirius, which would have pleased his parents.
Political and Social Expectations
The Blacks, known for their staunch belief in pure-blood supremacy and their loyalty to Lord Voldemort, would have been deeply disappointed by Sirius's choice. The family prided themselves on their noble heritage and pure-blood lineage. Many were convinced that Voldemort's ideology of wizard dominance and muggle slaughter was correct. Their expectations of Sirius, the eldest son, were high, and a placement in Slytherin was often seen as the expected and admirable path for a Black heir.
Family Disappointment and Public Humiliation
It is also speculated that Sirius's family would have been quite disappointed and potentially outraged by his placement in Gryffindor. A common form of expressing their disappointment would have been through a howler, a loud and public letter that presumably shamed Sirius for his decision. The message would likely have included statements making him a 'disgrace' to the family. These howlers were known for their dramatic and embarrassing nature, used to shame family members in public. This form of communication would have been a way for the Blacks to publicly shame Sirius for his choice.
The Impact on Family Dynamics
Sirius's choice to be sorted into Gryffindor not only affected his personal life but also strained his family relationships. His continued association with the Order of the Phoenix, which was seen as opposing the Black family's beliefs, further compounded the tension. The Black family motto, "Tojours pur" (always pure), underscores their obsession with blood purity. This motto would have been something they keenly followed and Sirius's behavior would have seemed in contradiction to this ideal.
The portrait of Sirius's mother at Grimmauld Place provides a vivid illustration of the family's reaction. The screaming portrait vividly captures the family's outrage and disappointment, symbolizing the deep rift that Sirius's choice had created within the family. This scream encapsulates the devastating impact of Sirius's decision to align with Gryffindor, a house that epitomized loyalty, courage, and the fight against the dark forces that the Blacks supported.
In conclusion, Sirius Black's sorting into Gryffindor was a moment fraught with emotions for his family, reflecting the complex tensions between family expectations and individual choices. While his family's disappointment and public humiliation were significant, it ultimately highlighted the importance of personal freedom and the importance of following one's heart, even against family expectations.