Snake is one of the most intriguing and peculiar characters in Yana Toboso’s dark fantasy series Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji). Initially introduced as a snake charmer and performer in the Noah's Ark Circus, he later transitions into a footman at the Phantomhive manor. Beneath his quiet demeanor and his habit of speaking exclusively through his reptilian companions, Snake carries a complex backstory tied to his mysterious origins and deep loyalty to Ciel Phantomhive.
Understanding Snake requires looking past his eccentric exterior to examine his role in the overarching plot, his unique bond with his snakes, and his ultimate place in the Phantomhive household. This breakdown explores who Snake is, where he came from, and why his character matters in the world of Black Butler.
Origins and the Noah's Ark Circus
Before becoming a servant to the Earl of Phantomhive, Snake was a member of the Noah's Ark Circus, a troupe of orphans who operated as kidnappers under the direction of Baron Kelvin. Unlike the other members who grew up together in the East End workhouse, Snake's background remains shrouded in ambiguity. He lived among snakes, adopting their mannerisms and treating them as his family.
During the Circus arc, Snake performs as a snake charmer, wrapping various serpents around his body while on stage. Because he spent his formative years isolated from mainstream society, his speech patterns are entirely unconventional. He rarely speaks for himself, instead relaying thoughts through his snakes—each named after Victorian-era figures or literary tropes—who act as his voice and emotional barometer.
When the Phantomhive household raids the circus encampment to put a stop to the kidnappings, the rest of the troupe perishes. Snake manages to escape the immediate carnage, left behind while his surrogate family is wiped out. This traumatic loss forms the emotional core of his character and sets up his eventual confrontation with Ciel.
Transition to Phantomhive Footman
Following the events of the circus investigation, Snake tracks down Ciel and Sebastian Michaelis, initially seeking revenge for the demise of his fellow troupe members. He infiltrates the townhouse and attempts to assassinate Ciel, but Sebastian easily intercepts him.
Instead of executing him, Ciel discovers that Snake has nowhere else to go and recognizes his unique set of skills. Ciel hires Snake as a footman for the Phantomhive manor. This decision transforms Snake's role from an outsider seeking vengeance into a loyal, if bewildered, employee within an elite aristocratic household.
Working under Sebastian proves to be an intimidating trial for Snake. Sebastian's supernatural efficiency and rigid discipline terrify the former circus performer, yet Snake adapts. He performs his household duties while keeping his snakes close, often using them to gather information or assist with tasks around the estate. His integration into the manor also provides readers with a window into the daily operational chaos of the Phantomhive staff, who are already notorious for their incompetence compared to Sebastian.
The Mystery of Snake's Identity and Heritage
One of the most debated topics among fans surrounds Snake's true biological nature. While human, his physical resilience, unusual alignment with snakes, and resistance to certain poisons have led to various theories about his background.
Toboso's storytelling often hints that Snake might not be entirely ordinary. His skin features a pale, scaly texture in certain depictions, and his ability to communicate with reptiles goes beyond simple training. He understands their whispers, interprets their subtle movements, and treats them with maternal or fraternal devotion.
During the Campania arc, Snake proves his worth during a crisis aboard the luxury liner. When the ship is overrun by Bizarre Dolls—reanimated corpses brought back by the Aurora Society—Snake uses his serpents to scout corridors, rescue passengers, and protect Elizabeth Midford and Ciel. His snakes act as a living perimeter, demonstrating that his peculiar upbringing equipped him with survival instincts far superior to standard domestic servants.
Key Relationships and Dynamics
Snake's interactions with other characters highlight his social isolation and gradual growth.
- The Snakes: Keats, Emily, Wordsworth, Oscar, Wilde, Daniel, John, and Emily Jr. are not just props; they are his primary support system. Each snake possesses distinct personalities that mirror their namesakes, and Snake relies on them to process social situations.
- Ciel Phantomhive: Snake views Ciel with a mixture of fear and profound loyalty. Having spared his life and given him purpose, Ciel represents the master whom Snake feels obligated to serve, even when he doesn't fully understand the dark political machinations surrounding the Phantomhive estate.
- Sebastian Michaelis: Sebastian treats Snake with polite condescension, frequently using Snake's fear of him to keep the footman in line. Despite this, Sebastian acknowledges Snake's utility and reliability during dangerous operations.
- Finny, Mey-Rin, and Bardroy: The other Phantomhive servants embrace Snake as part of their dysfunctional family. Their shared awkwardness and mutual inadequacy at normal domestic chores create a strong camaraderie among the staff.
Common Misconceptions About Snake
Many casual viewers or readers misunderstand Snake's motivations and dialogue mechanics.
- He is not mute: Snake can speak on his own, but he chooses to communicate through his snakes because he feels more comfortable with animals than with humans. When pushed to extreme stress or direct urgency, he drops the ventriloquism and speaks with his own voice.
- He wasn't an original workhouse orphan: Unlike Joker, Beast, Dagger, and the other core circus members, Snake joined the troupe later in their formation. This explains why he was somewhat separated from their deepest secrets regarding Baron Kelvin.
- He is not a demon: Despite working in a household run by a demonic butler alongside reanimated corpses and grim reapers, Snake is entirely human, making his survival in such supernatural environments all the more impressive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Snake talk through his snakes?
Snake spent his childhood isolated among reptiles rather than people, leading him to develop a deep psychological preference for their company. Letting his snakes speak for him helps him navigate social anxiety and human interaction.
Do Snake's snakes have specific names?
Yes. His snakes are named after famous authors and poets, such as Emily (Brontë), John (Keats), Oscar (Wilde), and Wordsworth, reflecting Yana Toboso's fondness for literary references.
Does Snake ever speak with his own voice?
Yes. While he prefers letting his snakes talk, he speaks directly when he is startled, angry, or forced to communicate quickly without his pets mediating.
What happens to Snake during the Blue Cult Arc?
During the investigation into the Sphere Music Hall, Snake plays a crucial role by using his snakes to infiltrate restricted areas and uncover the missing persons mystery tied to Somerled and Lordstars.
Is Snake aware of Ciel's true identity and secrets?
Snake knows that the Phantomhive household operates in dangerous, murky waters, but he remains largely sheltered from the deepest conspiracies involving the twin plotline, focusing instead on his duties and his loyalty to the young earl.
