News Archive

Spellbound: Examining the phenomenon of Harry Potter – University of Reading

Are you a Harry Potter fan? Do you understand Quidditch? Can you find Platform 9¾? With the next exciting adventure of the young wizard about to hit the cinema screens, the University of Reading is offering a magical chance for fans to explore the phenomenon that is Harry Potter. On Saturday 19 November, the University's School of Continuing Education is holding a fascinating Harry Potter Dayschool, giving lucky students a chance to discover some of the reasons for the huge success of the books and outline their importance in the genre of children's literature. Students will have the opportunity to consider Potter in terms of cinematic portrayal and the role of merchandising and PR in establishing the success of Harry Potter as a product. In addition, participants are encouraged to bring their own Potter trivia, but are asked not to cross wands during the energetic debates that may arise! Course tutor Sara Broad teaches Literature in Henley-on-Thames. Sara is a closet Harry Potter fanatic and recently completed a Master's degree in Children's Literature at the University of Reading. Having studied the family feature film as part of her dissertation, she is particularly interested in film adaptation. Sara is currently in the process of submitting her work on the film Stuart Little. Her interests lie in childhood and identity and she starts a PhD in Dickens and Childhood at the University of London this September. The School of Continuing Education's Dr Sarah Smith says the day is a must for Potter fans. "As the latest film has just been released this is a perfect time for people to find out more about this incredibly popular series. Sara Broad's enthusiasm and expertise will ensure students have an entertaining day; while unravelling the secrets of the books should be a great adventure in itself." It is recommended that students will have read all the Harry Potter books, but photocopies of extracts from the text will be provided. An essential part of the course is an ability to read closely as much as extensively, so although it is obviously ideal to have read all the novels, it is not essential. The course fee is £28.00 (£23.00 concessions). For enrolment details and a copy of the 2005-2006 prospectus containing information on all courses please contact: School of Continuing Education Tel: 0118 378 8347 Email: continuing-education@reading.ac.uk Web: http://www.reading.ac.uk/conted End For media enquiries only, please contact Craig Hillsley, the University's press officer on: Tel. 0118 378 7388 Email c.hillsley@reading.ac.uk