<P> Potions is described as the art of creating mixtures with magical effects . It requires the correct mixing and stirring of ingredients at the right times and temperatures . As to the question of whether a muggle could brew a potion, given the correct magical ingredients, Rowling has said, "Potions seems, on the face of it, to be the most muggle - friendly subject . But there does come a point in which you need to do more than stir ." Rowling later confirmed on Pottermore that "There is always some element of wandwork necessary to make a potion ." Snape's lessons are depicted as unhappy, oppressing times set in a gloomy dungeon in the basement of the castle, whilst Slughorn's, who replaces Snape as Potions Master, are shown as more cheerful and even fun at times . </P> <P> Astronomy classes take place in the Astronomy Tower, the tallest tower in Hogwarts, and are taught by Professor Aurora Sinistra . Lessons involve observations of the night skies with telescopes . No astronomy lessons are shown in the books, but they are frequently referenced . Rowling describes one of Harry's Astronomy exams in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix . Also, bits of the Astronomy Tower are seen throughout the film series, such as HP2 and HP3, and featured in Half - Blood Prince, as the place where Dumbledore died, and seen in Deathly Hallows . Known student homework activities include learning the names of stars, constellations and planets, and their location, movements, and environments . </P> <P> History of Magic is the study of magical history . Cuthbert Binns' lessons are depicted as some of the most boring at Hogwarts . They are only lectures, given without pause, about significant events in wizarding history . Topics have included goblin rebellions, giant wars, and the origins of wizarding secrecy . This is the only class at Hogwarts that is taught by a ghost, as the professor never noticed he had died and simply continued teaching as if nothing had changed . </P> <P> Herbology is the study of magical plants and how to take care of, utilise and combat them . There are at least three greenhouses described in the books, holding a variety of magical plants . Herbology is also the only subject Neville excels in . The epilogue to Deathly Hallows explains that he later replaces Professor Sprout as the Herbology teacher . </P>

Who taught history of magic in harry potter