The objective of this course is to explore J.K. Rowling’s world in the Harry Potter series through book discussions and activities. In this course we will help legitimize the genre of fantasy by exploring topics, themes, and issues brought about by this series. In addition, we will try to understand what makes the series so compelling to generations of readers, and what has made it the best-selling book series of all time. We hope to prove that Harry Potter is a work of academic merit to our students. To do this, we will discuss:

(1) the history of magic, witchcraft, and wizardry
(2) social hierarchies and the role of race in culture
(3) social relationships and dynamics: friendships and families
(4) international education and cooperation
(5) the role of government and corruption, concentration on authoritarianism, in civilian life
(6) children’s literature, fantasy novels and the Harry Potter fandom
(7) the role of death and love in the hero’s journey

This class is open to everyone, from the most dedicated fans to those who have never read the books or watched the movies. However, we have lifted our spoiler ban, meaning text spoilers are allowed in class! If you are a first-time reader, you are welcome regardless, but be prepared! At times, our faculty advisor will also attend lecture as part of their supervision and sponshorship of our class.

The Class
Each class will usually be split into two parts. The first part is a discussion, a reading quiz, and a short lecture concerning that week's reading. The second is a fun activity based on that week's reading, for which you can win points for your house toward the illustrious House Cup. (See the schedule below for a list of our awesome activities.) Points will also be awarded for bringing in food (extra for homemade or Harry Potter themed food!)

We will be holding a mandatory application session on Wed., August 29th at 6:30pm at Hearst Annex B5. Don't worry! This isn't a test of your Harry Potter knowledge. We just want to create the best class we can so we are looking for enthusiastic students who are excited to participate. Whether you've read the books 50 times or never at all, we just want to see that you care and WHY you want to be in the class.