A History of Magic

"Non-magic people (more commonly known as Muggles) were particularly afraid of magic in medieval times, but not very good at recognizing it. On the rare occasion that they did catch a real witch or wizard, burning had no effect whatsoever. The witch or wizard would perform a basic Flame Freezing Charm and then pretend to shriek with pain while enjoying a gentle, tickling sensation. Indeed, Wendelin the Weird enjoyed being burned so much that she allowed herself to be caught no less than forty-seven times in various disguises."

- Bathilda Bagshot, A History of Magic

A History of Magic is a novel written by Bathilda Bagshot, one of the greatest magical historians and friend of Albus Dumbledore, Lily Evans, and James Potter, that tells of magical history before the nineteenth century. It is a requirement for Hogwarts students for their History of Magic class (taught by Professor Binns). Hermione Granger has an extra copy of this book in her school trunk.

Behind the scenes

 * In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the book is said to be written by Adalbert Waffling, instead of Bathilda Bagshot.

Appearances

 * Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
 * Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
 * Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
 * Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them