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Lawrence University's Associate Professor of History, Edmund Kern, gained national attention two decades ago for his insights on Harry Potter. Kern, a specialist in early modern European history, has delved into the history of witchcraft and religious culture, leading to the creation of his course on Harry Potter and the publication of his book, "The Wisdom of Harry Potter: What Our Favorite Hero Teaches Us About Moral Choices."

Reflecting on his career and teaching philosophy, Kern shared, "I often tell my students that my life has been one characterized by becoming more and more comfortable with less and less certainty." He emphasized the importance of embracing uncertainty in both life and scholarship, noting the endless opportunities for interpretation and analysis.

When asked about his most exciting work at Lawrence, Kern expressed his enthusiasm for combining his research interests with teaching. He highlighted the rewarding experience of teaching courses like "Religion, Magic, and Witchcraft in Early Modern Europe" and "Thinking about Harry Potter," where he can share his depth of knowledge with students encountering these topics for the first time.

Discussing the unexpected turns in his career, Kern revealed, "My work on the Harry Potter books as a cultural phenomenon... turned into a book, The Wisdom of Harry Potter." He credited his interest in the history of magic and witchcraft for leading him to explore the ethical themes presented in the popular book series.

Outside of the classroom, Kern shared his passion for history, stating, "History really was the only choice for me." He also expressed an interest in carpentry or furniture making as potential alternative career paths. Additionally, Kern revealed his favorite spot on campus, overlooking the river, where he finds solace in observing nature.

In closing, Kern recommended Chinua Achebe’s "Things Fall Apart," Brian Eno’s "Another Green World," and Akira Kurosawa’s "Ran" as impactful works that have influenced his perspective over the years.

As Lawrence University continues to foster a vibrant academic community, faculty members like Edmund Kern play a vital role in shaping students' educational experiences and expanding scholarly discussions on history and popular culture.