A History of Magic is the core textbook for the History of Magic subject at Hogwarts. While the original novels do not provide a detailed physical description of its cover or binding, it is portrayed as a standard academic volume. Hermione Granger once described its contents as “a bit dry,” suggesting it is a dense, text-heavy work likely containing few illustrations. As a book on the first-year supply list, it is a fundamental part of a Hogwarts student's education.
The book's primary purpose is educational, chronicling the major events, figures, and societal developments of the wizarding world. It serves as the main source of information for students studying for their Ordinary Wizarding Level (O.W.L.) and Nastily Exhausting Wizarding Test (N.E.W.T.) examinations in History of Magic. Known topics covered within A History of Magic include:
Despite its comprehensive scope of ancient and medieval history, the book is noted for its lack of information on more recent events. For instance, Hermione Granger confirmed it contained no mention of the relatively modern alchemist Nicolas Flamel or the first rise of Lord Voldemort.
A History of Magic was authored by the preeminent magical historian, Bathilda Bagshot. The exact date of its first publication is unknown, but by the 1990s, it was firmly established as the standard academic text on the subject across the British wizarding world. The author, Bathilda Bagshot, was a long-time resident of Godric's Hollow and a personal acquaintance of the Dumbledore family. She was also the great-aunt of the Dark Wizard Gellert Grindelwald. Her unique position as an observer of some of the most influential figures of the 20th century likely gave her unparalleled insight, though the textbook itself focuses on much earlier historical periods.
Initially, A History of Magic serves as a world-building device, providing context on wizarding history and culture. It is frequently referenced by Hermione Granger, who, unlike her friends, genuinely enjoys the subject matter. Her recitation of facts from the book, such as the Flame-Freezing Charm, provides both the reader and Harry Potter with important background information about the wizarding world. In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the book's author, Bathilda Bagshot, becomes a figure of immense importance. Harry and Hermione travel to Godric's Hollow with the hope of speaking to her, believing she may hold secrets about Albus Dumbledore's past and the Deathly Hallows. The book, therefore, acts as an indirect link that leads the protagonists to a crucial and perilous encounter with Nagini, who was impersonating Bathilda's corpse. The book's reputation cements its author's authority, making her a target for both Rita Skeeter's gossip-mongering biography and Harry's quest for information.