The Harry Potter Phenomenon

Lane Memorial Library to Host Free Program:
The Harry Potter Phenomenon
August 18, 2009 – 3:00 p.m.

This event will take place at the Lane Memorial Library in Hampton, NH and will feature James Krasner of the University of New Hampshire English Department.

James Krasner is an associate professor of English at the University of New Hampshire where he teaches British literature, the Bible as literature, and secondary school English teaching. His research interests include British Victorian literature, interdisciplinary studies, aesthetics, and science and nature. He was a recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award in 2006.

We all know how popular Harry Potter is, but what are the literary and cultural roots of this popularity? This talk looks both at the literary lineage of the books in 19th century fiction and the current cultural and technological forces that have brought it to the forefront of popular culture. It also offers well-informed answers to the big Potter questions: Will this make kids read more? Why do so many people like Harry Potter? Should you feel bad if you don't? Is Harry Potter really anti-Christian? Will we still be reading the books in 100 years?

This program was made possible by the University of New Hampshire Speakers Bureau which connects faculty and staff speakers with non-profit organizations to share the research and knowledge of the university with the people and communities of New Hampshire. For more information on obtaining a speaker for your organization, contact the UNH Speakers Bureau at (603) 862-4401 or on the web at www.unh.edu/speakersbureau.

For more information on this event, contact the Lane Memorial Library at 603-926-3368 or kcorbett@hampton.lib.nh.us.