Online Exhibition from National Library of Medicine: Harry Potter's World: Renaissance Science, Magic, and Medicine

This online exhibition from the History of Medicine Dept. at the National Library of Medicine in Bethesda, MD is not new but since the final Harry Potter movie premiered today in London and will open in the U.S. next week we thought it was worth sharing again.

Direct to Online Exhibition: Harry Potter’s World: Renaissance Science, Magic, and Medicine

In 1997, British author J. K. Rowling introduced the world to Harry Potter and a literary phenomenon was born. Millions of readers have followed Harry to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where he discovers his heritage, encounters new plants and animals, and perfects his magical abilities. Although a fantasy story, the magic in the Harry Potter books is partially based on Renaissance traditions that played an important role in the development of Western science, including alchemy, astrology, and natural philosophy. Incorporating the work of several 15th- and 16th-century thinkers, the seven-part series examines important ethical topics such as the desire for knowledge, the effects of prejudice, and the responsibility that comes with power. This exhibition, using materials from the National Library of Medicine, explores Harry Potter’s world and its roots in Renaissance magic, science, and medicine.

Notes:

• Educational Resources are Available

• One of the Educational Resources is a Bibliography That Includes Books and Articles with Analysis of Harry Potter
• Info and Schedule For NLM’s Harry Potter’s World Traveling Exhibit

Filed under: Libraries, National Libraries, Publishing