Why Lupin Is the Best Marauder

I know what you’re thinking: Sirius Black is the best Marauder. Well, I’m not going to tell you that you’re wrong, but I’m here to make a case for Remus Lupin and the significant role he played in not only Harry’s life but also in the lives of the other Hogwarts students’. In honor of Lupin’s 59th birthday on March 10, here’s why I’d argue that he’s the best Marauder:

1. He carries chocolate around wherever he goes.

I’m sorry, but you can’t fight me on this one. How can you not want to surround yourself with the kind of people who always have chocolate on hand? Got a migraine? Lupin has you covered. Low blood sugar? Lupin has you covered. Dementor attack? Say it with me: Lupin has you covered! What more do you need?

2. He was always the kindest of his high school crew.

Although he could be as witty and mischievous as the rest of the Marauders, Remus Lupin did not forgo kindness. He knew that everyone deserved a second chance, and he gave it to them. He gracefully walked the line between misbehavior and maliciousness – a line that his friends often inelegantly crossed. When the other three boys were bullying peers or taking pranks too far, Remus was the calm, steady voice of reason among them. He was a silent observer and thought out every action of his before he took it. He always fought for what was right. For example, when he realized that Sirius Black was innocent in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, he came to his aid. He was willing to acknowledge that one of his dearest friends had done wrong, but he was smart enough to recognize when those rumors were just that: rumors.

3. He recognized his shortcomings and mistakes.

Sometimes he needed a little bit of a push, but Lupin was able to ignore his own insecurities to do what was right. He was so terrified to become a father – and frozen in fear of passing on his “condition” – that he attempted to abandon a pregnant Nymphadora at one point to fight alongside Harry. I’m not saying he was perfect, but Remus Lupin recognized when he was making a mistake and addressed it accordingly. His obvious flaws made him more lovable and relatable, in my opinion. I saw a lot of myself in Remus: reserved, witty, loyal, and good-looking (only (sort of) joking). He was so realistic because of his self-doubt. He often saw himself as a dangerous monster, but he did what he could to maintain relationships and let people into his life.

4. He just knew people.

Remus Lupin knew how to push Hogwarts students to their full potential. Even though most adult wizards had a difficult time conjuring a Patronus, Professor Lupin had faith in Harry and knew he was capable of greatness – more than was apparent from his “fame.” Lupin was incredibly personable and knew how to best communicate with each individual. Because of his lonely pre-Hogwarts childhood and the discrimination that he had faced as an adult, Lupin did his best to make sure everyone was included and welcome – because he knew what it was like to be on the other side of that. He saw injustice and addressed it. As a true gentleman, he was loyal, strong, and true.

His memory is one of patience, kindness, and intelligence. He used his wit to bring positivity and light into the lives of others, even when he needed it for himself. He may be gone, but Lupin will always live on in our hearts. How lucky Harry was to have known him.