Harry Potter’s World: Renaissance Science, Magic and Medicine Exhibit

Contact: Dwight Marvin Library, (518) 629-7330

Harry Potter’s World letterhead with owl

Harry Potter, the creation of British author J.K. Rowling, attends the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where he discovers his heritage, encounters new plants and animals, and perfects his magical abilities. This lively and informative traveling exhibition of materials from the National Library of Medicine explores Harry Potter’s world and its roots in Renaissance magic, science and medicine. While Harry’s story is fantasy, the magic in the seven-book series is based in part on Renaissance traditions of alchemy, astrology and natural philosophy that played an important role in the development of Western science. Rowling’s books incorporate the work of several 15th- and 16th-century thinkers in examining important ethical topics such as the desire for knowledge, the effects of prejudice and the responsibility that comes with power.

On Exhibit: Sept. 23-Nov. 2 (View Hours)